Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise,
unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
As a professional, I have a passion for learning as much industry knowledge as I can. This field is so diverse, complex, fascinating, and important. I am a second generation insurance professional. My mom has been in insurance since 1978, and we currently work in the same department. I have no idea what my future holds - there is so much to explore, but I definitely want to learn more about data analysis. I think that is the cornerstone of the industry changes we are currently a part of. I am also passionate about research (then again, I was an English major,) and I thrive on being a resource for people who need help just like all the people that I rely on to be a resource for me. I ultimately hope that I get the chance to contribute to this industry in more ways than one.

My passion for insurance actually came from my first insurance job as a sales agent in Florida. As I studied for my 2-20 license, I suddenly realized this material was more complex than anything I'd studied in a very long time. It was then that I realized how many layers there were, and how many scenarios there could be in just this one course I took. As my understanding of Insurance has grown, so has my yearning for everyone to also have a better understanding of how their money is being put to work and why their coverages work how they do. Ultimately, insurance is about being there in the darkest moments of someone's life. I survived Category 5 Hurricane Michael in 2018, and began my insurance journey as a result. Now, I am in a role where my peers share with me stories about making a difference in someone's life, just by doing our job.

I have to mention my 15 year old cat, Floyd. I've had him since he was a tiny kitten and he's my best bud. Before my CPCU journey, I read a lot and liked to build LEGOs, but I don't do much outside of work anymore, since I am still pursuing new designations and new knowledge. I'm also passionate about mental health because I think taking the steps to tend to myself is what led me to pick back up and finish earning my CPCU. In return, the designation led me to people who helped me believe in myself in ways I never did before. I feel like a brand new person now that I have learned how to take care of myself. I've also grown more confident in speaking out against systemic injustices and other things I never felt I was confident or capable enough to do. In such a fast-paced industry, it's easy to forget that not only do we deserve to feel our best, but those around us deserve the best version of ourselves.

In your opinion, what’s the best thing about being a CPCU Society member?
Hands down the people and the relationships. I didn't have many close connections and lived a pretty solitary life before I joined the Society. I chose my mentor, who became my rock and helped me build my network, and have been so fortunate to meet many talented and impressive people so early in my career. I am grateful for these relationships because I no longer feel alone. Rather, I feel supported, appreciated, and like I belong to something bigger than myself.
 
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/meganleighjones/     

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