At Rathbun Insurance, we believe in the power of opening doors, building connections and investing in the next generation of professionals. We were proud to recently welcome a group of international students from Michigan State University (MSU) to our office for an engaging Career Trek experience!
MSU's Career Trek program provides international students with unique, immersive opportunities to explore different industries, connect with local employers, learn about career paths and build meaningful professional relationships. These experiences offer students a firsthand look at organizations and the many opportunities available as they prepare for their futures.
During their visit, our team shared insights into the insurance industry, highlighting that a career in insurance is about so much more than selling policies. From sales and business development to underwriting, risk management, claims, customer service, technology, marketing and agency leadership, the industry offers a wide variety of career paths for individuals with diverse backgrounds, skills and interests.
We also discussed the value of networking, building professional relationships, navigating nontraditional career paths and exploring employment opportunities right here in the Greater Lansing region. Our speakers shared their own professional journeys, experiences and perspectives, helping students better understand the skills, connections and opportunities that can shape a successful career.
We are especially grateful to the Rathbun staff and former intern who helped make this experience meaningful:
- Ben Rathbun, CEO of Rathbun Insurance and MSU alumnus
- Laura Stoken, President and Partner of Rathbun Insurance
- Rafal Kopacewicz, Insurance Producer at Rathbun Insurance
- Yuxuan Gao, Independent Insurance Producer affiliated with Rathbun Insurance
- Sarah Beljeri, Rathbun Insurance's 2025 Summer Intern and current MSU international student
Each brought a unique perspective to the conversation, demonstrating that there is no single path to building a rewarding career. We were especially excited to welcome Sarah back to share her perspective as both a former Rathbun intern and a current international student navigating her own professional journey.
As a locally owned, independent insurance agency, we recognize the importance of connecting emerging talent with the businesses and opportunities that make Greater Lansing a great place to build a career. International students bring valuable experiences, global perspectives and diverse talents to our communities and workplaces, and we are proud to be part of creating a welcoming environment where they can explore, ask questions, make connections and grow.
A special thank you to Michigan State University for including Rathbun Insurance in this wonderful initiative, and to the students who joined us for their curiosity, thoughtful questions and enthusiasm!
Being there matters most, and sometimes that means simply opening our doors, sharing our experiences and helping the next generation discover what's possible. We look forward to continuing to support opportunities that connect students, employers and our Greater Lansing community.