Harrison Sutter
Wells Insurance Intern
When I started my internship at Wells Insurance, I didn’t expect to walk away feeling connected to the insurance world, but I did.
As a 22-year-old recent graduate from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, I’ll admit insurance wasn’t something I gave much thought to. Like many in my generation, I viewed it as something confusing, complicated, and, let’s be honest, boring. I thought of it as just paperwork and premiums. But after spending time on the inside of the industry, I realized I had it all wrong.
At Wells Insurance, an independent agency based in Wilmington, NC, I began to see insurance not just as a product, but as a service built on trust and relationships. My time at Wells’ gave me a behind-the-scenes look at how an agency truly supports people, families, and businesses, and how important that support becomes when things don’t go according to plan.
One experience that changed my perspective was visiting one of Wells’ larger commercial clients during a site walkthrough. I had the opportunity to sit in on meetings where agents, risk managers, and business owners worked together to proactively address potential claim issues and discuss strategies for safer operations. I saw how Wells doesn’t just respond to problems; they help prevent them. The collaboration between the agency and the client’s team was eye-opening. Each side brought its expertise to the table, working toward the same goal: protection, clarity, and peace of mind.
This was the moment it clicked for me, insurance is less about policies and more about people. These aren’t transactional relationships; they’re partnerships built on consistency, communication, and long-term thinking.
Something else that surprised me was how essential relationships are across the industry—not just with clients. I saw firsthand how much time goes into maintaining strong ties with underwriters and carrier representatives. These connections make it possible to advocate for clients, secure better coverage, and respond quickly when things go wrong. It’s a side of the business I had never considered, but it’s critical.
Reflecting on my own mindset before this experience, I realized how common my misconceptions were, especially among Gen Z. We grew up in a world of instant answers and streamlined apps. We’re used to clicking a few buttons and getting what we need. That mindset makes it easy to overlook industries like insurance, which are built on long-term trust and deeper relationships.
But here’s the thing: life isn’t always that simple. When the unexpected happens, whether it's an accident, a storm, or a lawsuit, it’s not an app that shows up for you; it’s a person. Someone who knows your story, understands your priorities, and is ready to guide you through the mess.
As we become more digitally connected, there’s real value in industries that still prioritize human connection. Insurance is one of the few places where that personal touch still matters—and in my opinion, that’s something worth preserving. I may have started my internship with doubts, but I finished it with clarity. Insurance isn’t just a “necessary evil.” It’s a relationship business. And if we can help more people, especially young people, see that, I think the industry has a very bright future.
Curious about what a career in insurance really looks like?
If you’re a Gen Z student or recent grad who’s rethinking what you thought you knew about this industry, we’d love to talk. At Wells Insurance, we offer hands-on internships, mentorship, and real-world experience that goes way beyond the cubicle.
Click here to learn more about career opportunities and how you can find your place in an industry that’s all about people, purpose, and long-term impact.
Or contact our HR department directly by emailing hr@wellsins.com
