Cole Arendsen
“Since day one, Oakworth has blown my expectations of this summer internship out of the water. The entire program and all the associates at Oakworth have gone out of their way to develop a fantastic program that cultivates both learning and relationships. The program has done an amazing job of giving us real world experiences by allowing the interns to underwrite old loans, build financial plans, and sit in on the investment committee.”
My name is Cole Arendsen and I was born and raised in Marietta, Georgia. I attended a small school in Danville, Kentucky called Centre College where I was a four-year letterman on the football team and a two-time all-conference defensive end while graduating with an economics and finance degree. I am currently attending Auburn where I am getting my MBA, Master’s of Science in Finance, and a graduate certificate in Supply Chain Planning. I love to be active, which includes working out and doing adventurous activities, eating, and spending time with friends.
I heard about Oakworth’s internship program through Auburn’s Graduate Career Services department. Oakworth Associates attended a handful of their events and left a strong impact on me, leading me to seek out Oakworth and the internship opportunities they offered. Going through the interview process, the overwhelming factor that stood out to me was how genuine each person I met was. It was easy to form personal relationships with the associates and very quickly I knew Oakworth was the right place for me.
Since day one, Oakworth has blown my expectations of this summer internship out of the water. The entire program and all the associates at Oakworth have gone out of their way to develop a fantastic program that cultivates both learning and relationships. The program has done an amazing job of giving us real world experiences by allowing the interns to underwrite old loans, build financial plans, and sit in on the investment committee.
In addition, the program has check ins designed to streamline communications and help the interns get the most out of the program. There are also professional development opportunities and LinkedIn learning sessions, all designed to further the interns’ professional skills. Overall, I’ve gotten more out of the experience that I ever would have imagined, and I couldn’t be more thankful for my experience.
Hometown: Marietta, GA
School: Auburn University
Major: MBA, Master’s of Science in Finance, Grad Certificate in Supply Chain planning
One fun fact about you: My heart has stopped 3 times and I think a 4th but I’m not positive about that one.
Hidden Talent: I know an unusually high amount of random baseball and college football stats and facts.
What kind of superpower would you like to have? Telepathy – I want to know what everybody in the room is thinking.
What’s your favorite part about your internship? My favorite part of the internship is how it is designed. Oakworth uses a rotation-style, which has given me exposure to different departments and allowed for me to experience different areas of the business.
Most valuable thing you’ve learned? The most valuable thing I learned during the internship was the entire process of how a bank makes money from start to finish. It’s not something that really gets taught in school but how to properly leverage debt is very important for any business. Regardless of what direction I decide to take my professional career, I learned a very important process this summer.
Favorite department: Credit knows how to have a good time but I have to say my favorite department is wealth. Its real hard to beat The Golden Boy (Ryan Bernal), K-dubz (Kara), Chris Cooper, King Norris (John Norris), and so many more great people all in one department.
Favorite memory: My favorite memory of the internship so far has been the corporate challenge – it was great to get to see so many of the associates outside of the office. I am a naturally competitive person so dodgeball for me, specifically, was a lot of fun.
Tips for future summer associates: You get out of it what you put in, and don’t be scared to ask questions.
Whitney Bean
“Without hesitation, the people at Oakworth have made my internship unforgettable. While I’ve enjoyed many aspects of my experience, it’s the relationships I’ve built that have been truly transformative. Oakworth associates take a genuine interest in their fellow associates and clients alike, and being part of such a hard-working yet uplifting environment has been incredibly special.”
Hello, my name is Whitney Bean, and I am excited to share my experience at Oakworth this summer! I first learned about Oakworth through an email about a “Day in the Life” event they were hosting. Though I attended this event with little prior knowledge of Oakworth, I developed a deep appreciation for their Core Values, which clearly guide every decision made. I remained curious about Oakworth’s dedication to becoming an “Iconic Brand,” and I was thrilled when offered the opportunity to be a part of Oakworth for the summer.
Upon receiving my offer, I began counting down the days until the internship started, yet I felt welcomed even before my first day. The handwritten notes, birthday messages, and excitement from various Oakworth associates assured me that this summer would be a meaningful opportunity. This sense of feeling valued has only grown throughout the summer, and I can confidently say that I have had the summer of a lifetime alongside some of the best people I have ever met.
From underwriting a loan, building a financial plan, participating in meetings, organizing service projects, and so much more, my time at Oakworth has taught me that it is the people here that make it such a distinctive place. Every Oakworth associate is fully committed to its purpose of ”Helping People Succeed,” and this dedication to excellent service is not merely a goal, but a reality. Being surrounded by such exceptional associates and fellow interns has inspired me to strive for greatness, and I am grateful for the humble leaders I’ve had the opportunity to learn from. Speaking of my fellow interns, I will always cherish the memories I’ve made with Annelise, Anne Neal, Clay, and Cole. I am fully confident we will all be lifelong friends.
I wish this summer didn’t have to end so soon, but I’m eager to carry the skills and relationships I’ve gained wherever I go. I deeply appreciate all the Oakworth associates who went the extra mile to include me and foster my growth this summer, and I look forward to staying in touch with everyone who made my experience so memorable. Oakworth and its people are truly remarkable, and I feel incredibly grateful to have been a part of something so special for the past ten weeks.
Hometown: Danville, Kentucky—a small town near Lexington. Go Cats!
School: Samford University—Go Bulldogs!
Major: Finance
One fun fact about you: I grew up on a family farm in Kentucky and have lived in the same house my whole life. I had a miniature pony named Pecan Pie for a bit, but unfortunately, she wasn’t as fond of me as I was of her!
Hidden Talent: I was a competitive swimmer in high school, and oddly enough, I love butterfly!
What kind of superpower would you like to have? The ability to capture moments like a sunset with my eyes, enhancing my ability to be more present in life! Similar to photographic memory but different, I envision the ability to immediately store these memories in a digital album on my phone after capturing them with my eyes.
What’s your favorite part about your internship? Without hesitation, the people at Oakworth have made my internship unforgettable. While I’ve enjoyed many aspects of my experience, it’s the relationships I’ve built that have been truly transformative. Oakworth associates take a genuine interest in their fellow associates and clients alike, and being part of such a hard-working yet uplifting environment has been incredibly special.
Most valuable thing you’ve learned? During my summer at Oakworth, I’ve learned to value the importance of encouragement in the workplace. Inspired by a professor who challenged, “Why couldn’t you be the most encouraging person in the office?” I’ve witnessed this idea embodied by the associates at Oakworth. Their consistent support of one another has profoundly impacted me, encouraging me to reflect on Dr. Kirkpatrick’s question as I embark on my own career journey.
Favorite department: Wealth, but I enjoyed exploring every department and seeing how everyone at Oakworth works together as a unified team.
Favorite memory: So many memories quickly fill my mind, but I’ll always cherish the fun we had at the credit party! Learning how to fry fish with Lane and enjoying a delicious dinner with everyone was an absolute blast!
Tips for future summer associates: Don’t hesitate to ask questions or feel pressured to know everything! At Oakworth, your mentors and fellow associates are eager to help you learn and are more than willing to answer any questions you may have.
Anne Neal Moore
“When looking at internships it was important for me to find a company where I would not only learn but would also be able to form strong relationships with those I was around, and this is exactly what I got at Oakworth!”
My name is Anne Neal Moore, and I am a rising senior at The University of Alabama majoring finance and economics. I have had the privilege of interning with Oakworth this summer and it has truly been one of the greatest experiences.
Growing up in Birmingham I had heard about Oakworth but really did not know too much about it. My junior year I was introduced to Alice Womack through a mutual connection, and she was able to tell me more about Oakworth and the internship program, and I knew this was the exact place I wanted to spend my summer. Even after the initial phone screen and my interview, it was clear how passionate everyone one was about their job and how much they all genuinely loved Oakworth.
The rotational aspect of the internship was invaluable. Being able to sit in multiple departments allowed me to learn so much and meet many people from across the bank. In the wealth rotation, we worked on a project building out an entire financial plan which was great experience in not only how financial planning works, but also gave insight on actual client conversations and the preparation that goes by behind them. We also spoke to the members of the Investment Committee and learned more about Oakworth’s portfolio and how the decisions surrounding it are made. In credit, we had the opportunity to experience how decisions regarding loans are made and even had the opportunity to underwrite a loan ourselves. Everyone interacted with both in and out of our rotations were always willing to answer questions and help us in any way they could.
When looking at internships it was important for me to find a company where I would not only learn but would also be able to form strong relationships with those I was around, and this is exactly what I got at Oakworth! It was so great to spend a summer around others who are so willing to share their experiences and knowledge and also listen to my opinions. Oakworth puts an emphasis on their Core Values, and I could truly see these values play out every day.
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
School: The University of Alabama
Major: Finance and Economics
One fun fact about you: I had the opportunity to study abroad in London last summer at London School of Economics.
Hidden Talent: I’m not sure if this is a hidden talent, but I love to review food and restaurants!
What kind of superpower would you like to have? Teleportation
What’s your favorite part about your internship? The projects you are assigned in both credit and in wealth. It is great to have real-world applications for what we have been learning during the internship. Also, the people! Everyone is so encouraging and always willing to help or teach in any way that they can.
Most valuable thing you’ve learned? All the different opportunities available within the bank and financial world (career–wise). And how important it is to work somewhere that truly puts an emphasis on their culture.
Favorite department: Credit
Favorite memory: The site visit to Kinetic.
Tips for future summer associates: Ask lots and lots of questions and make the most of your time. While you have great projects and task to work on, if you find yourself with any free time go to talk to different people around the bank, even people outside of your specific rotation. Everyone is so awesome and willing to take the time to talk. It’s cool to hear about their career path and what they do at Oakworth.
Clay Smelley
“The hands-on experiences and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects have been invaluable. This internship has not only enhanced my skills but also solidified my interest in pursuing a career in data within the financial sector. Oakworth’s commitment to its Core Values and the supportive environment have made this internship truly rewarding.”
My name is Clay Smelley, and I was the Data Intern at Oakworth this summer. I am currently a senior at UAB majoring in MIS set to graduate in December. I enjoy being active and outdoors and I love all sports from golf to pickleball.
I first discovered Oakworth while searching for local data internships online. What stood out to me was the emphasis on Core Values. I was immediately intrigued, as I had never considered working on a data team for a financial institution, but it seemed very interesting. After applying, I was impressed by the intent and thoughtfulness of the Oakworth application process. It was very detailed, yet everything felt intentional and personal.
Since starting my internship, I can confidently say that everything Oakworth preaches is put into action. Every associate goes out of their way to be helpful, and I cannot begin to express all that I have learned. Being able to see projects through from start to finish and working on real projects that will be put to use has made for an incredible experience.
The hands-on experiences and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects have been invaluable. This internship has not only enhanced my skills but also solidified my interest in pursuing a career in data within the financial sector. Oakworth’s commitment to its Core Values and the supportive environment have made this internship truly rewarding.
Hometown: Tuscaloosa, AL
School: University of Alabama at Birmingham
Major: MIS
One fun fact about you: I have a few different collections. I collect older sports memorabilia and fossils.
Hidden Talent: I currently live on a small family farm or what I would call a “farm-ette.” Being on the farm has taught me how to milk a cow!
What kind of superpower would you like to have? Being able to speak to animals/turn into animals like Beast Boy.
What’s your favorite part about your internship? Getting immersed into the data world. There was so much to learn, and I enjoyed being able to absorb all the information throughout this internship.
Most valuable thing you’ve learned? The extent and layers each project has within face value.
Favorite department: Data
Favorite memory: I turned 21 during the internship and my fellow interns decorated my cubicle and went out to eat with me! It was so thoughtful and kind of them!
Tips for future summer associates: Come to work every morning ready to work and with a smile! Also, don’t be afraid to get uncomfortable, go find the work don’t wait for it to find you.
Annelise Sutherland
“From the first phone call, I was met with such appreciation and kindness by each person I interacted with. It was evident that everyone believed in the Core Values and mission of Oakworth. When the time came to make the decision on my offer, it took me all of 5 seconds to accept!”
At the start of my junior year, I started applying for internships from the get-go. August through September felt like a blur of resume editing, online applications, and career fairs. When examining different companies, I was looking for a company that stood out on more than just its success, but on its commitment to its culture and values.
A friend of mine mentioned Oakworth because he remembered the impactful presentation they had given to a class he had been in. I had never heard of Oakworth prior to this, but upon reading about the company I decided to submit my resume. It had every quality I was looking for in an internship and more. From the first phone call, I was met with such appreciation and kindness by each person I interacted with. It was evident that everyone believed in the Core Values and mission of Oakworth. When the time came to make the decision on my offer, it took me all of 5 seconds to accept!
Since the summer started, all my expectations have been exceeded. Everyone at Oakworth has taken the time to invest in us both professionally and personally. From Q&A meetings with the leadership team, to lunches during the workday, and even social events outside the office, it has been invaluable to create relationships that extend beyond the hours of 8 to 5.
Throughout the summer, we were given projects that had tangible meaning and application, which is what truly allowed us to learn. In the wealth rotation, we built and presented financial plans, which highlighted the importance of creating strategies to manage a client’s finances and then communicating these plans with compassion. In the credit rotation, we explored the intricacies of the loan process by underwriting a loan from start to finish. This required analyzing extensive financial data, applying attention to detail when building reports, and presenting to a loan committee.
I had no idea that one internship would have this great of an impact. I am incredibly grateful that I get to start my career journey with a strong foundation that was built by the people at Oakworth.
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
School: Auburn University
Major: Finance
One fun fact about you: I am in an all-women’s Acapella group.
Hidden Talent: I make the best chocolate chip cookies ever!
What kind of superpower would you like to have? Telekinesis
What’s your favorite part about your internship? The culture! The Core Values that Oakworth holds was what drew me to apply for the internship in the first place, and it is the reason why I love coming to work every day. That and the other interns are all so great, they are the best people I could have asked to work with!
Most valuable thing you’ve learned?: One of the most valuable lessons I’ve gained from this internship is how important it is to develop the skill of communicating complicated topics effectively.
Favorite department: Wealth
Favorite memory: My favorite memory from the internship was the dinner we had after Oakworth University. It was one of the first times where I was able to spend time with the different associate’s outside of work.
Tips for future summer associates: Talk with everyone you can. Everyone at Oakworth has unique experiences, expertise, and advice to offer. They are always ready and willing to lend a helping hand!