If there were an award for best intern ever, chances are Caleb Pols would win it.

The Grand Valley State University sophomore has already won a similar award from Milwaukee-based firm Northwestern Mutual, where he serves as a financial representative intern, selling life insurance and helping clients with financial planning.

Of the 2,000 interns working at the insurance giant nationwide, Pols received an award for being the firm’s 90th best intern.

According to Vault.com, an information source for persons seeking white-collar careers, the company ranks among the top 10 places in the business sector to intern.

“Challenging times call for financial security strategies, and in Grand Rapids Caleb has led the way this year, helping families revisit their priorities and protect what matters most,” said Todd M. Schoon, Northwestern Mutual senior vice president.

With regard to his recent success, Pols said his girlfriend’s grandfather — who also works at Northwestern Mutual — was an important mentor.

“Whenever I had a question he was there to answer it on the spot,” he said.

Pols also said his work ethic, punctuality and personable nature were also well-received by the company, but success did not come quickly.

“It started in the summer and I didn’t see much benefit until about December,” he said, referring to the glacial pace of the life insurance industry.

Pols, a business major, said he has not yet entered the Seidman School of Business, but plans thinks his recent experience will go a long way toward benefiting his coursework.

“I’ve only had my gen-eds and some low-level business classes, but if this teaches me about work ethic it will be worth it,” Pols said.

For his future plans, the Hudsonville, Mich., native said he would like to continue his work at Northwestern Mutual throughout college and possibly turn it into a career.

“One in three interns eventually work here after school,” he said.

Pols added the company is always looking for interns and the positions are open to anyone who is qualified.

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