Intern Spotlight Series: Introducing interns Justin Swenson, Talia Slavin, Cherlean Darko, and Paula Tarnarider
As part of our ongoing Intern Spotlight Series, this week we are thrilled to introduce interns Justin Swenson, Talia Slavin, Cherlean Darko, and Paula Tarnarider. Through this series we aim to highlight the goals and aspirations of our interns, showcasing their unique journeys and contributions to our company.
Justin Swenson
Justin is currently interning with the Finance team in our Plymouth, Minnesota office this summer. He’s participating in a rotational program designed to provide exposure to multiple areas of the business. Throughout the summer, he looks forward to gaining hands-on experience and building a strong foundation in corporate finance while learning from experienced professionals.
Justin is originally from Buffalo, Minnesota and is currently a student at Saint John’s University. He first heard about Intact through a trusted professor. Since applying, every step of the process has reinforced his impression of a positive and supportive work environment. “Everything I’ve encountered since applying has confirmed that this is a great place to learn and grow,” he shared.
Outside of work, Justin enjoys spending time at his family’s cabin in Perham, Minnesota, which is his favorite spot for relaxing and recharging. He also recently watched the documentary series Full Swing on Netflix.
Talia Slavin
Talia is interning with the Human Resources team this summer at our Canton, Massachusetts office. She is a student at Bryant University and has a passion for people-focused work. During her internship, Talia hopes to gain practical experience from seasoned HR professionals. “I’m eager to apply my academic knowledge and previous internship experience to real-world HR functions, learn best practices from industry experts, and expand my professional network within the field,” she shared.
Originally from Sharon, Massachusetts, Talia was drawn to Intact for the opportunity to explore HR within a new industry. “My previous internship was in the clean energy nonprofit sector, so I was particularly interested in seeing HR through a different lens. Intact’s purpose—to help people, businesses, and society prosper in good times and be resilient in bad times—really aligns with my own values,” she said.
Outside of work, Talia enjoys relaxing with a good show and recently finished Season 7 of Virgin River on Netflix. If given the chance to travel anywhere in the world, she’d love to explore France, Italy, or Greece.
Cherlean Darko
Cherlean is working with the Claims Counsel this summer in our New York City office as a Legal Clerk intern. She is originally from Jamesburg, New Jersey, and is a student at Rutgers Law School. Cherlean looks forward to gaining valuable hands-on experience throughout the internship. “I’m excited to develop new skills while also gaining a deeper understanding of the insurance requirements within different industries,” she shared.
Cherlean was drawn to Intact because of her interest in art and entertainment insurance. “I was extremely interested in learning about art and entertainment insurance,” she said. “I enjoy going to shows and museums, so it would be interesting to learn about the logistics of insuring such venues.”
Outside of work, Cherlean enjoys reading and watching TV. She recently finished The Midnight Library and has been watching The Pitt. If she could travel anywhere in the world, her top destination would be Barcelona.
Paula Tarnarider
Paula is working with the Claims Counsel in our New York City office as a Legal Clerk intern this summer. She is currently a law student at New York Law School and is looking forward to building on her experience in a professional setting. “I’m hoping to gain more experience in litigation and working in a legal department within a larger company,” she said.
Originally from Rockaway Beach, New York, Paula was drawn to Intact by the strong sense of community and mentorship she sensed from the start. She noted the “unique learning opportunities, sense of community, and mentorship” as key reasons she pursued the role.
If Paula could travel anywhere in the world, she would go to California, as she enjoys visiting her family there. She recently finished watching the popular TV series called The Sopranos.
