Navigating College and Career: Trevor Hummel's Journey from Student to Banking Professional
In the latest episode of the Life Multiplied podcast, host Courtney interviews Trevor Hummel, a recent graduate who shares his unique journey through college and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. From sports recruitment to internships and career guidance, Trevor's experiences provide valuable insights for students and young professionals alike.
Trevor Hummel's story begins with his recruitment to play football at Illinois Wesleyan University. He reminisces about the personal touch from the coaching staff, particularly the offensive coordinator who visited his high school. This attention made a lasting impression on Trevor, leading him to choose the university as his home for the next few years. Beyond athletics, Trevor appreciated the university’s academic reputation and its proximity to family, allowing him to maintain a connection to his roots while enjoying the independence of college life.
Initially pursuing a pre-physical therapy degree, Trevor made a pivotal switch to finance with a minor in economics during his freshman year. This decision coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which dramatically altered the college experience. Classes transitioned to online formats, prompting Trevor to adopt a more self-directed learning style. Despite the challenges, he found ways to engage deeply with his subjects, ultimately emerging from the experience with a clearer sense of his career aspirations.
Trevor's internships were crucial in shaping his career path. His first opportunity came during the pandemic, with a fully online internship that laid the groundwork for his eventual position at Beer Nuts as an accounting intern. Although he had no desire to pursue a career in accounting, he recognized the transferable skills he would gain, such as project planning and budgeting. This experience opened his eyes to the inner workings of a successful local business with a national presence.
His second internship at the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) allowed Trevor to work as a marketing consultant for various local businesses. This role gave him invaluable hands-on experience and the chance to collaborate with clients at different stages of their business journeys. It was also here that he connected with a mentor who guided him toward a future in commercial banking, ultimately leading him to his first job.
Trevor’s journey was significantly enhanced by the support of his university's Career Center. He credits Patrick Zajac, a career advisor, for helping him craft a compelling resume and for encouraging him to pursue internships early in his college career. The Career Center provided essential resources, including practice interviews and connections to potential employers, that proved vital during his job search.
Trevor Hummel's journey from student-athlete to banking professional underscores the importance of adaptability, mentorship, and proactive career planning. His experiences highlight the value of internships in gaining practical skills and the role of university resources in shaping a successful career path. Trevor is now a Small Business Relationship Manager at First Financial Bank. For current students and recent graduates, Trevor’s story serves as a reminder to embrace challenges, seek guidance, and remain open to new opportunities.