The Magic “I” Word: Internships
- According to employers, one of the most valuable types of experiences you can have.
- Organizations hire many full-time employees from summer or academic year interns.
- Kansas Micro-internship Program
The National Association of Colleges and Employers defines an internship this way:
An internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional setting. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths; and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent.
To ensure that an experience—whether it is a traditional internship or one conducted remotely or virtually—is educational, and thus eligible to be considered a legitimate internship by the NACE definition, all the following criteria must be met:
- The experience must be an extension of the classroom: a learning experience that provides for applying the knowledge gained in the classroom. It must not be simply to advance the operations of the employer or be the work that a regular employee would routinely perform.
- The skills or knowledge learned must be transferable to other employment settings.
- The experience has a defined beginning and end, and a job description with desired qualifications.
- There are clearly defined learning objectives/goals related to the professional goals of the student’s academic coursework.
- There is supervision by a professional with expertise and educational and/or professional background in the field of the experience.
- There is routine feedback by the experienced supervisor.
- There are resources, equipment, and facilities provided by the host employer that support learning objectives/goals.
Benefits/Advantages of Internships
Types of Internships
For more information, and to get started looking at available opportunities, visit the Parker Dewey micro internships for Washburn website.
Each employer has unique internship parameters, so be sure to ask lots of questions during the selection process to ensure that the experience is what you are seeking. Your accomplishments and tasks completed during your internship are more important than simply having the word “Intern” on your resume.
At the start of your internship, meet with your supervisor to discuss your interest areas and internship goals. While you may not be able to tailor your entire experience, showing initiative and ownership of your experience will demonstrate professionalism and dedication to the position. Make your specific areas of interest and experience known to your internship supervisor.
Treat your internship as a job interview. Since many employers hire full-time employees from recent interns, your performance during the internship can determine whether or not you are offered a position. During your internship, act as you would if you were a full-time employee. Following the dress code, arriving on time, staying on task, and completing work within deadlines will impress your supervisor. Even if your company does not have a position open, a positive reference from your internship will be very helpful during your job search.
Available internships from Handshake
This list is updated directly from the Handshake website. View all openings (handshake website)Date: Thu, 21 May 2026 9:42 AM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 06/21/2026 Position: Annuity Operations Summer InternDepartment: Annuity OperationsReporting to: Annuity Operations ManagerLocation: Topeka, KS - OnsiteTerm: Summer 2026 (35-40 hours per week)Overview:Are you looking for an opportunity to learn more about the world of annuities and financial services while supporting a high-performing team? Our Annuity Operations department is seeking a talented and motivated Annuity Ops Intern for the summer to help our team deliver exceptional service to our clients and advisors.The Annuity Ops Intern will play a vital role in assisting with service requests, conducting follow-up communications with carriers, and handling important data entry and reporting tasks. You’ll gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment—ideal for someone interested in pursuing a future in business, financial services, or operations.What you’ll do: Make outgoing calls and use carrier websites to obtain policy values and status updates on in-force annuity contractsFollow up on service items (such as address changes, beneficiary updates, or policy information requests) by working directly with insurance carriersAccurately enter data from annuity applications and service items into our tracking systemsAssist with compiling and distributing reports related to annuity businessSupport the Annuity Operations team with administrative tasks and special projects as neededExhibit a positive, collaborative approach to all assignmentsExperience you’ll bring:College-level coursework in business, finance, communications, or related field preferred but not requiredStrong attention to detail and organizational skillsAbility to communicate clearly and confidently over the phone and in writingA positive, proactive approach to work with the ability to handle multiple prioritiesWillingness to learn new systems and processes quicklyPC proficiency and comfortable navigating multiple programs and online platformsBonus Points:Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word)Prior office, administrative, or customer service experienceInterest in financial services or operationsWhat you’ll get:Access to an on-site café and gym Continuous personal and professional development opportunitiesRecognition for hard work & exemplary performanceEmployee sponsored events…and more!Who We Are:Advisors Excel is a fast paced, innovative company that seeks to service independent financial advisors in a multitude of areas within their business. From operational functions to sales and marketing, our end goal is to help continually grow advisors’ businesses nationwide. We thrive on watching them succeed. Not only does AE want to see the success of our advisors, but also our employees. We have high expectations from them to continually move our business forward. We are on the hunt for positive people who thrive on hard work and in a collaborative team environment. If this sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? We want you to join our team!Advisors Excel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Everyone is welcome here – as an inclusive workplace, our employees are always comfortable bringing their true selves to our offices daily.
Date: Thu, 14 May 2026 2:09 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 06/14/2026 Position: Books Program InternDepartment: AE Media SolutionsReporting to: Books Program Director Location: Topeka, KS- Onsite Overview:We are looking for a talented and motivated Books Program Intern to join our Books Program team! The Book Program Intern is responsible for helping team members craft compelling stories, apply laser like editing, design retiree-friendly layouts, and bring a level of service to publication and general marketing that provides clients a high level of satisfaction they find in the finished product.What you’ll do: Weigh in with well-thought-out discussion points about design templates, editing and style guidesLearn to critically edit content in a way that allows producers to tell their stories in an accurate and compliant wayBring a level of unparalleled customer service to the production and marketing piece of the publishing equation, with proactive communication and spunkPleasantly articulate Books Program offerings and goals to the internal AE audience as well as to AE’s clientsTake initiative in developing program improvements and new offeringsWrite and edit effective press releases, blogs and social media posts on an as-needed basisFrame commemorative books to send to advisors post-publicationExperience you’ll bring:College-level course work in mass communications, writing, English, or journalismStrong written and verbal communication skills and attention to detailAbility to write and edit error-free content for distribution through various mediaAbility to vary tone and messaging based on medium, target audience and productAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneously with frequent interruptions while meeting deadlines, producing high quality work and projecting a positive attitudeStrong organizational and time management skillsAbility to take initiative with projects and operate autonomously with minimal directionBonus Points:Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word)Confidence navigating new online publishing technologiesWorking knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator & Photoshop) is idealWhat you’ll get: Access to an on-site café and gymContinuous personal and professional development opportunitiesRecognition for hard work & exemplary performanceEmployee sponsored events… and much more!Who We Are:Advisors Excel is a fast paced, innovative company that seeks to service independent financial advisors in a multitude of areas within their business. From operational functions, to sales and marketing, our end goal is to help continually grow advisors’ businesses nationwide. We thrive on watching them succeed. Not only does AE want to see the success of our advisors, but also our employees. We have high expectations from them to continually move our business forward. We are on the hunt for positive people who thrive on hard work and in a collaborative team environment. If this sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? We want you to join our team!Advisors Excel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Everyone is welcome here – as an inclusive workplace, our employees are always comfortable bringing their true selves to our offices daily.
Date: Thu, 7 May 2026 3:41 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 06/07/2026 Title: Video InternDepartment: Creative ServicesReporting to: Video Art DirectorLocation: Topeka, KS - OnsiteOverview:Are you a creative storyteller with a passion for visual content? Do you dream of producing videos that captivate and inspire? Join us as a Video Intern and gain hands-on experience that will take your skills to the next level!Please submit a resume and link to your video portfolio or examples of your work. Ready to launch your video career? Apply now!This internship is ongoing, not a seasonal or summer internship. It is on-site in our Topeka, KS office and not open to remote work. Additionally, please note that the company does not extend sponsorship opportunities at this time. What you’ll do:Edit and Revise Videos: Implement revisions to client and corporate videos, including basic edits, adding graphics/logos, selecting background music, exporting final cuts, and uploading for client deliveryStudio Management: Maintain and organize the video and audio equipment, ensuring the studio space is functional and well-prepared for shootsPreproduction & Shoot Assistance: Assist in preproduction planning for client shoots, and provide hands-on support during filmingEquipment Prep & Documentation: Handle equipment preparation, manage necessary paperwork, and ensure all gear is ready for upcoming projectsRecord In-House Trainings: Capture internal training sessions, ensuring high-quality video and audio for future useExperience you’ll bring:Experience with video editing software like Adobe Premiere, After Effects, or Final Cut ProBasic understanding of camera equipment, lighting, and soundStrong communication and collaboration skillsAbility to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environmentStrong organizational, time management and problem-solving skills and the ability to work accurately and meet deadlines with frequent interruptionsWhat You’ll Gain:Real-world experience working on diverse video projectsMentorship from experienced professionals in video production and marketingA portfolio boost with content you’ve helped producePotential for future full-time employment opportunitiesWho We Are:Advisors Excel is a fast paced, innovative company that seeks to service independent financial advisors in a multitude of areas within their business. From operational functions, to sales and marketing, our end goal is to help continually grow advisors’ businesses nationwide. We thrive on watching them succeed. Not only does AE want to see the success of our advisors, but also our employees. We have high expectations from them to continually move our business forward. We are on the hunt for positive people who thrive on hard work and in a collaborative team environment. If this sounds like you, then what are you waiting for? We want you to join our team!Advisors Excel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Everyone is welcome here – as an inclusive workplace, our employees are always comfortable bringing their true selves to our offices daily.
Date: Thu, 18 Sep 2025 3:33 PM
Employer: Bimbo Bakeries USA Expires: 05/30/2026 Salary Range: $19-21/ hourThe Bimbo Bakeries USA Summer Internship Program affords students a remarkable experience to participate in fast-paced real world projects designed to further develop strategic project management, analytical problem solving, and managerial leadership skills. Mentors will be designated to guide student collaborations and project work in each area. Students will be exposed to a variety of functional areas of the business and also have the chance to connect with leaders in the organization for learning and development opportunities. Key Job Responsibilities: Perform data analysis to identify opportunities for cost savings and waste reduction by fully utilizing corrective maintenance systems. Conduct process studies to discover opportunities for increased maintenance line effectiveness. Rigorous collection, analysis and response to data to leverage maintenance systems to implement improved controls. Provide assistance in design and execution of various projects (systems and floor), including effective down day planning. Update Facility Drawings to include main plant steam, air, HVAC, and water lines. Develop Spare Part Initiatives to include critical spare parts and management of parts process. Assist in predictive maintenance program development and implementation. Key Behavioral Competencies: Capable of interacting and effectively communicating with all levels of the organization, with the ability to thrive in a team environment. Maintenance of the confidentiality of any personal or company information encountered. Excellent organizational and communication (written & oral) skills. Excellent interpersonal skills. Education and Work History: Candidate should be currently in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree Previous Co-op or intern experience is a plus Flexible schedule available, however, must be willing to work at minimum 30 hours / week.
Date: Thu, 4 Sep 2025 1:35 PM
Employer: Bimbo Bakeries USA Expires: 05/28/2026 Have you ever enjoyed Arnold®, Brownberry® or Oroweat® bread? A Thomas’® English muffin or bagel? Or perhaps snacked on a Sara Lee®, Entenmann’s® or Marinela® cake or donut? If the answer is yes, then you know Bimbo Bakeries USA! More than 20,000 associates in bakeries, sales centers, offices and on sales routes work to ensure our consumers have the freshest products at every meal. In addition to competitive pay and benefits, we provide a safe and inclusive work environment that appreciates diversity, promotes development and allows our associates to be their authentic selves. Salary Range: $19-21/ hourThe Bimbo Bakeries USA Summer Internship Program affords students a remarkable experience to participate in fast-paced real-world projects designed to further develop strategic project management, analytical problem solving, and managerial leadership skills. Mentors will be designated to guide student collaborations and project work in each area. Students will be exposed to a variety of functional areas of the business and also have the chance to connect with leaders in the organization for learning and development opportunities. Key Job Responsibilities: Perform data analysis to identify opportunities for cost savings and waste reduction by fully utilizing corrective maintenance systems. Conduct process studies to discover opportunities for increased maintenance line effectiveness. Rigorous collection, analysis and response to data to leverage maintenance systems to implement improved controls. Provide assistance in design and execution of various projects (systems and floor), including effective down day planning. Update Facility Drawings to include main plant steam, air, HVAC, and water lines. Develop Spare Part Initiatives to include critical spare parts and management of parts process. Assist in predictive maintenance program development and implementation. Key Behavioral Competencies: Capable of interacting and effectively communicating with all levels of the organization, with the ability to thrive in a team environment. Maintenance of the confidentiality of any personal or company information encountered. Excellent organizational and communication (written & oral) skills. Excellent interpersonal skills. Education and Work History: Candidate should be currently in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree Previous Co-op or intern experience is a plus Flexible schedule available, however, must be willing to work at minimum 30 hours / week. The physical and mental demands described in each job posting are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of each job. Reasonable accommodations may be requested to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of each job. Bimbo Bakeries USA is an equal opportunity employer with a policy that provides equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, any other classification protected by law. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Date: Tue, 28 Apr 2026 2:44 PM
Employer: Budget Rent A Car of Atlanta Expires: 05/29/2026 Operations Management InternLocations: Atlanta, Birmingham, Kansas City, Memphis, Nebraska, Utah, WichitaBetterway Rent a Car Group dba Budget Rent a CarAn Independent Budget System Licensee Betterway Rent a Car Group, a licensed Budget Rent a Car system operator, is seeking motivated and driven individuals to join our Operations Management Internship Program. This hands-on role provides invaluable experience in managing rental car operations with a focus on leadership, business management, sales, and customer service. While the skills developed in this role are highly transferable across industries, many of our interns have successfully transitioned into leadership roles within our organization. Key Responsibilities Support daily operations including inventory, fleet maintenance, and administrative tasksUphold company policies, procedures, and safety standardsAssist in maintaining a clean, organized and welcoming branch environmentCollaborate with management to address challenges such as vehicle shortages, and customer dissatisfactionRecommend appropriate products and services to enhance customer experience and drive revenuePromote the Betterway rewards program to encourage repeat businessAddress customer concerns professionally and proactivelyParticipate and engage in regularly scheduled updates with senior leadership & executives Qualifications Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record18+Flexible scheduleMust be working toward an associate or bachelor degree (any field)Highly motivated & self-disciplinedExcellent communication, interpersonal, leadership & conflict resolution skills Benefits Hands-on experience in management & leadership within a dynamic industryMentorship from senior & executive leadersOpportunity to develop transferable customer service, sales, and operational skillsPotential for future career opportunities within the company
Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2026 9:40 AM
Employer: CDPC Sales Team Expires: 06/17/2026 CDPC Sales and Marketing, a national innovative leader in pest-control services and sales, has announced a Paid-Summer Internship/Co-op program. Positions are available in each of the locations listed: Austin, TX; Northern Virginia, VA; Little Rock, AR; Nashville, TN; Kansas City, MO; Columbia, SC; Richmond, VA; Cincinnati, OH; Greensboro, NC; Baton Rouge, LA; Huntsville, AL; Augusta, GA; Jacksonville, FL; Memphis, TN; Charleston, SC; Charlotte, NC; Greenville, SC; Knoxville, TN; Raleigh, NC; and Lexington, KY. This internship is ideal for undergraduate students interested in gaining hands-on experience in sales, marketing, or business. It’s also a great fit for students pursuing a business degree who want to build valuable real-world skills while earning competitive pay.As a Sales Intern, your primary objective will be to help drive sales growth within an assigned territory. You’ll gain experience by interacting with homeowners and learning directly from industry professionals in both pest control and sales. Throughout the program, you’ll develop a strong understanding of the products we use to protect homes and businesses, as well as proven sales techniques to confidently engage with potential customers.What we have to offer:· Professional, hands-on training with a successful sales manager· Comprehensive training program · 1-on-1 Mentoring · Team based environment · Company Provided Housing· High earning potential · Resume and Career Growth The ideal candidates will possess the following qualities:· Professionalism· Ability to build relationships with clients· High desire and motivation to succeed· Ability to learn and adapt quickly· Listening and persuasion skills· Methodical and analytical sense· Drive, determination, grit · GPA of 2.0Responsibilities:· Execute effective sales strategies· Communicate and execute weekly goals with a Sales Manager· Build business relationships with new accounts· Cultivate and maintain existing business relationships· Effectively communicate with existing clientele to expand theircurrent services· Participate in daily meetings· Add creative input into marketing new industries or sales ventures· Learning and then applying the “Sales Cycle”· Leading a sales meeting· Developing a flier for a marketing competition ClearDefense Pest Control is an industry leader in residential pest control, known for exceptional service and top-rated customer reviews. With over 30 years of combined experience in management and sales, our leadership team is dedicated to creating an environment where interns can thrive and succeed.As a Sales Intern, you’ll have the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations, gaining practical business and sales experience that sets you apart from your peers. Our comprehensive training program, paired with hands-on fieldwork, equips you with the tools and confidence to excel in sales and leadership.Through this experience, you’ll not only gain valuable professional development but also have the potential to earn significant income based on your performance. More importantly, you’ll leave the program with enhanced confidence, real-world sales expertise, and leadership skills that will benefit you in any career path you pursue.
Date: Fri, 8 May 2026 10:29 AM
Employer: City of Lawrence, Kansas Expires: 06/08/2026 We're looking for vibrant individuals who are at least 18 years old and love working with adults! If you're outgoing, reliable, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you. Experience in fitness instruction is a plus—AFAA, Fitour, NETA, ACE certifications, or anything similar would be great! Being able to communicate well, both in writing and speaking, is essential. We also require CPR/First Aid certification. Classes are offered at various times and locations throughout the week, and your work schedule will depend on enrollment numbers.While sending in your resume is optional, we definitely encourage you to do so! Join us and help inspire others on their fitness journey!Successful candidates must pass a background check.
Date: Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:54 AM
Employer: Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Department of Developmental Services Expires: 06/02/2026 DDS Summer Urban Youth | Northeast Residential Services Direct Care Worker I - (260001K8)Description Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is sponsoring a great program called the "Urban Youth Collaborative."This program offers students between the ages of 18 and 24 the opportunity to enrich the lives of both the students and the individuals receiving supports within the Northeast Region. The goal of this program is to give young adults exposure into the field of Human Services, enabling them to strongly consider a career supporting people with developmental disabilities.The human services field has career opportunities as lawyers, accountants, program directors, residential staff, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and a wide range of other roles. The DDS Northeast Region is seeking hard working and compassionate candidates to serve as interns direct care.Northeast Residential Services (NRS) is comprised of 78 Residential State Operated homes across the Northeast Region of Massachusetts for 340+ individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This exciting opportunity enables the intern to build connections and friendships with other program participants as well as meaningful relationships with the people we support. Each intern will gain invaluable life experience that will serve to inform their future career path. In addition, the relationships that are established with the people we support with be life changing. Each internship can also be customized to provide valuable experience based on your field of study as well potentially lead to future growth opportunities within DDS. Young adults within Urban Youth Collaborative Program are here to advocate for and follow through with the activities people want to engage in. Spanning across the North Shore, Merrimack Valley, Metro North, Central Middlesex and Lowell areas, interns in the Northeast have many opportunities for community engagement while providing support to individuals aged 22 and older.The program opens in the middle of May and runs to Labor Day Weekend, this Summer session is restricted to a maximum 90-day appointment. It will be necessary for participants to be available for the entire summer, and unfortunately no vacations will be granted. All participants must have a valid drivers' license.Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):- Provide both personal care support and participate in the involvement of the individuals into the community.- Support & encourage interaction and integration into the community for the individuals.- Accompany the individuals on frequent community outings and day trips such as attend concerts, Patriot’s training camp, trips to aquariums, restaurants, libraries, and local coffee shops.- Planning, setting up, and leading a variety of activities at the individual’s residences. Activities include, but are not limited to: music and movement, arts & crafts, cooking and baking, and social events such as coffee and ice cream get togethers. Preferred Qualifications:- Ability to develop and maintain a respectful, caring, tolerant, ethical, and empowering relationship with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.- Ability to assist and facilitate activities of daily living, such as household maintenance, self-care and hygiene, food shopping and preparation, budgeting, leisure activities and social skill development.- Capability to assist/lift individuals with physical disabilities and/or limited mobility. Urban Youth Collaborative Requirements:- Applicant must be between 18-24 years old.- Have a valid driver's license.- Must have a reliable form of transportation. Please Note:Schedule: These positions will be on either the first and second shifts with specified days off.Pay: All State employees are paid bi-weekly through direct deposit. Current Urban Youth Collaborative pay rate is $22.98/ hour. About the Department of Developmental Services:The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/ddsFor more information about the Urban Youth Collaborative visit: www.mass.gov/info-details/dds-urban-youth-collaborativeinternshipPre-Offer Process
Date: Mon, 11 May 2026 10:38 AM
Employer: Community Action Expires: 06/11/2026 Community Action, Inc.Grant Writer InternPosition SummaryCommunity Action, Inc. is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Grant Writer Intern to support the agency’s fundraising, community partnership, and program development efforts. This internship provides hands-on experience in nonprofit grant research, proposal development, data collection, and strategic planning.The Grant Writer Intern will work closely with leadership and program staff to identify funding opportunities and assist in developing compelling grant applications that support services for individuals and families across our 12-county service area.Key ResponsibilitiesResearch grant opportunities from foundations, corporations, and government agenciesAssist with drafting grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and supporting documentsSupport collection and organization of program data and outcomesAssist with community needs assessment and funding alignment researchHelp track grant deadlines, submissions, and reporting requirementsCollaborate with program staff to gather program narratives, budgets, and impact storiesAssist with donor and partner communication as neededSupport strategic initiatives and special projects related to community impact and sustainabilityPreferred QualificationsCurrently enrolled in or recently graduated from a college or university program related to:EnglishCommunicationsPublic AdministrationNonprofit ManagementSocial WorkPsychologyBusiness or related fieldStrong written and verbal communication skillsAttention to detail and organizational skillsAbility to manage multiple projects and deadlinesInterest in nonprofit work, community impact, and poverty reductionExperience with Microsoft Office and online research preferredLearning OpportunitiesInterns will gain experience in:Grant writing and nonprofit developmentProgram evaluation and outcomes measurementCommunity partnerships and outreachStrategic planning and operational supportNonprofit funding systems and reportingSchedule & LocationFlexible schedule based on student availabilityInternship hours determined collaborativelyAbout Community Action, Inc.Community Action, Inc. serves 12 counties across north-central Kansas, working alongside individuals and families to address barriers related to housing stability, early childhood education, and economic mobility. Through collaboration, innovation, and community partnerships, CAI strives to create pathways toward long-term stability and success.Community Action, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Organization.
