Nathaly Velazquez

Nathaly Velazquez, Client Relationship Representative, didn’t think she’d end up in banking.

"Two years ago, I was in school, working full time, and was a bit burnt out," she shared. "I was looking for something more – I didn't want work as physically draining as my current job. I wanted to work with my mind. That's when I found First Merchants."

Her search for better opportunities led her to an internship with First Merchants in Consumer Banking.

"I didn't think I would get it, because I was studying business, not finance," she said. "But it really worked out for me because I ended up trying something new and really loving it."

Over the 12 weeks of her internship, Nathaly learned the ins and outs of helping others prosper and formed strong, life-changing connections with other team members.

“I was able to connect with people from so many different groups and backgrounds – different ages, different ethnicities, different life experiences,” she explained. “I honestly hadn’t expected that from a bank, but I really appreciated it and, along with the company’s focus on building strong relationships with your coworkers, it really showed me all that First Merchants had to offer.”

After her internship wrapped up, Nathaly began working at the Valparaiso, IN banking center as a Client Relationship Representative. The work is everything she was looking for back when she was a student dreaming of better things.

"I'm given flexibility, opportunities, encouragement, and a place to grow and learn – especially when I'm so new to this path and banking in general," she shared. "And I have the chance to make a difference."

Nathaly says that at First Merchants, no doors are barred – whether that’s seeking professional development, learning about different career paths within the bank, or working to build stronger connections with the community.

"For example, I have the opportunity to attend a weekly pitch session with community leaders, where we all share our needs and work together to find solutions," she explained. "From that, I've actually had the chance to try and establish a working relationship with the local university. Even though these aren't things that are, on paper, part of my job description, I'm still given this leadership opportunity and the chance to grow."

First Merchants also encourages Nathaly to give back to her community and volunteer, which she does whenever possible.

“I just think the opportunity for growth is so valuable, and it gets you to come to work every day and to want to work hard – it’s priceless, in my opinion.”

Want to see if banking is for you? Explore our internship opportunities.

First Merchants Bank’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility compels us to invest in our communities by finding ways to reduce inequalities, improve the quality of our neighborhoods, and promote positive economic mobility though our five community pillars: Employee Empowerment; Community Investments and Charitable Giving; Financial Wellness; Community Home Lending; and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This series features First Merchants teammates who embody the spirit and impact of the company’s Vision: “to enhance the financial wellness of the diverse communities we serve.”