Internships

The Jamie P. Merisotis and Colleen T. O’Brien Internship Program, named for the IHEP co-founders, strives to provide an opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to develop skills in administrative support, communications, higher education policy, marketing, program management, and research. Each semester, internships are available in three areas: communications and marketing, programs, and research.

Each internship lasts for approximately 14 weeks and offers a stipend (amount varies based on experience and weekly availability). IHEP interns are considered regular staff members and, as such, play a significant role in helping the organization achieve its goals. Below is additional information about each of the internship areas of focus and the application process.

Communications and Marketing

The IHEP Communications and Marketing Intern assists in creating and maintaining print and online marketing materials, manages media and mailing lists, maintains a filing system for the organization’s external and internal outreach activities/products, writes and edits content for IHEP’s Web site, and provides general support to other departments. The ideal candidate should be available to work at least 25 hours a week and must be a junior or senior in college. They should be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; have excellent oral and writing communications skills; and be able to multi-task and work well independently as well as in teams. Majors in communications, journalism, marketing or a similar field are preferred.

Programs

The IHEP Programs Intern provides much needed support for the organization’s various programmatic activities. This individual would be involved with the daily operations of program management and event planning. Responsibilities include providing administrative support in creating and maintaining project databases, drafting memos and documents, and aiding in the coordination of various project meetings. Prospective candidates should be a junior or senior in college, have strong writing skills, be proficient in Microsoft Office, have an interest in higher education and program management, and be available to dedicate at least 20 hours a week.

Research

The IHEP Research Intern joins the organization’s research and evaluation team. In this role, interns are likely to perform library- and Internet-based research, assist with interviews and focus groups, help develop and administer surveys, participate in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, and provide writing assistance on brief papers and extensive policy reports. Prospective candidates should have strong writing skills, some research experience, and an interest in public policy or education research.

Quantitative research skills are encouraged, but are not required. The ideal candidate should be available to work at least 20 hours a week and will be a graduate student. Exceptional senior level undergraduate students may be considered.

Application Process

Candidates for all three areas are asked to submit a resume and a brief cover letter summarizing their interest, experiences, and area of focus. Candidates are also asked to submit a short writing sample (three to five pages). All prospective candidates should possess strong oral communication and writing skills. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis via fax at 202-861-9307 or e-mail to internships@ihep.org. No calls please. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.