Being young and new to the industry is amazing

Austin Young is an International Graduate Trainee who graduated with degrees in both Finance & Banking and Risk Management & Insurance. He learned about the trainee program by talking with professors at his school. They pointed him in the direction of Munich Re.

The International Graduate Trainee Program is a huge opportunity for Munich Re to explore talent and get their name out there with new graduates in the industry. Austin explains that seeing photographs and videos of the natural catastrophes and what exactly Munich Re insures is fascinating. These figures would interest many people whether they know about the P&C insurance industry or not, simply because of how incredible they are.

Austin originally joined Munich Re two years ago as an intern and had a wonderful experience on an underwriting track. When asked about his favorite part of the program he states, “the best part of the program, in addition to having the opportunity to travel internationally, is meeting with the people of Munich Re. They are what makes it what it is.”

“The Trainee Program has offered me an environment that is conducive to fostering authentic relationships with my coworkers both personally and professionally. These individuals are some of the most intelligent that I have ever met, and I try to walk away from each interaction with at least one takeaway I can apply to my personal and/or professional life,” shares Austin.

Having been able to gain so many new role models throughout his short time with Munich Re, he has gained a much better understanding of what goes on in the industry, within our organization, and what is happening around the world. Austin continues, “Additionally, I have felt a sense of welcomeness that is unmatched. Even as a young professional, my thoughts, perspectives, and opinions are valued and taken into consideration. The support and willingness to invest in my future have been extremely easy to feel, of which I could not be more appreciative.”

The flexibility of working at Munich Re has also impressed Austin. He explains how he has seen a lot of professionals move career paths under the umbrella of Munich Re and still stay with the company.

When asked to describe a challenge he has faced, “Being young and new to the industry is amazing for networking. It will be important for us as an industry to start networking externally to get younger talent. Being young presents us with the opportunity to grow our networks and I have found this challenging at times to navigate.”

Learn how you can apply for the Munich Re International Graduate Trainee Program at https://www.munichre.com/us-non-life/en/company/careers/student-opportunities.html