A Summer at VCIA

Sofia Mendes
August 26, 2025

A Summer at VCIA

 

It was May, just after graduation, when I began my marketing internship with VCIA. I was nervous, but more than anything, I was excited. I’ve always had a passion for learning, and during my interview I felt the same rush of energy I always get at the start of a new adventure. This summer proved to be just that, an adventure that did not disappoint.

 

Throughout my time at VCIA, I had the chance to immerse myself in the captive insurance industry. To my surprise, what stood out most was the sheer passion that drives this field. From the curiosity that filled every conference session to the joy that lit up the room whenever industry leaders reconnected, it became clear that the captive industry is anything but dull (despite what the name might suggest). At the heart of this joy and curiosity is VCIA. Every day at my desk, every meeting I attended, and every project I worked on deepened my appreciation for the role VCIA plays in connecting professionals, fostering education, and supporting the growth of this remarkable community.

 

The majority of my work this summer was dedicated to preparing for the VCIA Annual Conference. From creating marketing materials and drafting communications to organizing details behind the scenes, I had the chance to contribute in many different ways. Seeing all of those individual pieces come together into one extraordinary event was incredible. Walking into the conference and experiencing the energy, the networking, and the learning firsthand was one of the most rewarding moments of my internship.

 

I was also fortunate to work alongside another intern, Joseph Warner. Sharing this experience made the summer even more rewarding, and seeing how well he excelled motivated me to always give my very best. Not only did Joseph shine in his work, but his genuine kindness ensured I was never alone and always had a supportive ear to listen. I will always be grateful for his encouragement, friendship, and the positive energy he brought to our internship experience.

 

To the rest of the team, thank you for always treating me like one of your own. Not once did you act as though I was “just an intern” or that my time here was temporary. Anyone watching from the outside might have thought I had been with VCIA for decades, and that I’d never be leaving. The patience, guidance, and care I received made me feel part of something bigger than a workplace. Thanks to you, I now know I’ll always seek not just a job, but a true sense of family in my career.

 

This internship has given me practical skills, professional insights, and lasting connections. I’m deeply grateful to everyone at VCIA for trusting me with meaningful responsibilities and supporting my growth every step of the way.

 

As my internship comes to an end, my heart is full. Full of joy for the experiences I’ve had, and full of sadness to see them end. To the entire VCIA team, and to every person I met along the way, thank you for making this a summer I’ll never forget.

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