Blueprint

Expanding educational opportunities for students in under-resourced communities

internships

PCSD Interns: Exploring the Inner Workings of Commercial Bank of California

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Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at a bank? Recently, our intern had the incredible opportunity to delve into the inner workings of one of our esteemed banking partners, Commercial Bank of California. With a comprehensive itinerary, they had the privilege of meeting team members from various departments, including client relations, operations, SBA, compliance, CRA, lending, credit, and even members of the C-suite. The visit not only provided valuable insights into the banking business but also offered a glimpse into the personal career journeys of these dedicated professionals. Join us as we explore the experiences of our intern and gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted operations at Commercial Bank of California.

Client Relations, Operations, and SBA: Building Strong Relationships and Supporting Businesses

During the visit, our intern had the opportunity to meet team members from client relations and operations, who emphasized the bank’s commitment to top-notch customer service. These dedicated professionals employ a white glove treatment, ensuring that every client receives exceptional support and attention. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) team shared valuable insights into their role in supporting riskier ventures through guaranteed loans, ultimately empowering small businesses to thrive.

Compliance, CRA, and Credit: Navigating Regulations and Evaluating Loans

The visit also shed light on the crucial departments responsible for compliance, CRA (Community Reinvestment Act), and credit. Compliance officers play a vital role in ensuring that the bank adheres to all financial institution regulations, protecting both the bank and its customers. The CRA team actively invests in communities that the bank serves, organizes financial literacy sessions, and engages in volunteer activities. Furthermore, the Credit Division carefully evaluates loans, analyzing financial statements and appraisals, to support businesses seeking financing.

C-Suite and Personal Career Journeys: Insights from Visionary Leaders

We had the opportunity to meet several members of the C-suite, including Chris Colella, the Chief Credit Officer, and Mark Yoon, the Chief Financial Officer. Their leadership and expertise guide the bank’s operations, ensuring its profitability and success. Additionally, hearing the personal career journeys of these professionals emphasized the value of continuous learning and adaptability in the banking industry.

The intern’s visit to Commercial Bank of California provided a unique and enriching experience, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of the bank. From client relations to compliance, credit, and the C-suite, the dedicated professionals showcased the bank’s commitment to exceptional customer service, community reinvestment, risk management, and financial success. Their personal career journeys highlighted the diverse paths one can take within the banking industry. Commercial Bank of California stands as a testament to the vital role banks play in supporting businesses and individuals, while also nurturing the professional growth and development of their own employees.

PCSD Interns: Commercial Real Estate with InSite EFS

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PCSD’s summer interns had the privilege of learning from industry expert, Dan Morrar from InSite EFS. Through two highly informative sessions, Dan not only shared his extensive background but also provided a comprehensive understanding of commercial brokerage and the work conducted at InSite EFS. The sessions were filled with enlightening case studies, lively discussions, and a platform for our interns to gain clarity on specific terms, processes, and site selection and development. It was an incredible learning experience.

Dan Morrar, a professional in the field of commercial brokerage, captivated our attention right from the start. He began by sharing his background, highlighting the challenges he faced and the milestones he achieved throughout his career. His journey served as an inspiration, proving that dedication and perseverance can lead to success. Dan’s willingness to share his experiences and personal insights created a positive learning environment, fostering enthusiasm and eagerness to explore the field further.

  1. Understanding the Intricacies of Commercial Brokerage: In the first session, Dan dived into the intricacies of commercial brokerage, unveiling the key aspects and processes involved in this dynamic industry. From negotiating deals to market analysis, we gained a comprehensive understanding of the various roles and responsibilities of a commercial broker. Dan’s expertise shone through as he shared real-life examples and practical tips, providing the interns with a glimpse into the world of commercial real estate and the complexities faced by professionals in this field.
  2. Exploring InSite EFS: A Journey Through Case Studies: During the second session, Dan took us on a journey through the work of InSite EFS, offering a deeper insight into the company’s operations. He presented a series of intriguing case studies, showcasing the diversity of projects undertaken by InSite EFS and the innovative approaches employed in each one. The case studies not only demonstrated the team’s expertise in site selection and development but also highlighted the importance of collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability in the commercial brokerage industry.

Dan encouraged active participation and open dialogue. The interns had the opportunity to ask questions about specific terms, seek clarification on complex processes, and gain a deeper understanding of the field. Dan shared practical examples and personal anecdotes to ensure that the interns grasped the concepts effectively. The interactive nature of the sessions allowed the interns to explore and engage in meaningful discussions, making the learning experience all the more enriching.