Chloe Shapkauski is a Credit Intern at Heartland Bank and Trust Company. She joined the Credit Department in August 2025.
About Chloe
Chloe joined Heartland Bank’s credit department as a credit associate intern. Originally from Tinley Park, Illinois, she is a business major at Illinois Wesleyan University, minoring in finance with a certificate in data analytics. On campus, she stays active through leadership roles in organizations such as BloNo Rotary Club, Women in Finance, IWU Habitat for Humanity, Student Senate, AWE (Awareness, Wellness, Education), Women’s Health Alliance and the Bloomington-Normal Young Professionals.
From campus to credit department
Chloe’s internship has given her the chance to apply classroom concepts to real-world banking. She supports the credit team by reviewing personal financial statements, tax returns and mortgage loans, entering data into the bank’s systems and assisting with credit administration and special projects. She says the role has helped her understand “how many intricate details go into each step of the lending process” and has deepened her understanding of commercial banking.
She credits her colleagues and mentors, including members of the credit team, for their guidance and willingness to answer questions. From learning to interpret tax returns and build financial spreads to evaluating borrowers and guarantors, Chloe values the hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn in a collaborative environment.
What advice would you give to intern candidates or future interns?
Chloe describes Heartland Bank’s internship as a valuable way to gain real exposure to commercial lending and the banking industry. She encourages future interns to stay curious, ask questions and fully engage with the resources and people to optimize the experience.
What else would you like to say about your experience?
Chloe is grateful for the supportive and knowledgeable team she has worked with at Heartland Bank. She says the experience has strengthened her interest in finance and given her skills and insights she will carry forward into her future career.