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
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, 15 May 2025 2:05 PM
Employer: ACCI Specialty Materials Expires: 11/15/2025 ACCI Specialty Materials is a leading chemical manufacturing company based in Linden, NJ with a manufacturing plant in Harrisonville, MO. We are currently seeking a Summer Intern to help develop PSSR's (Prestartup Safety Reviews), PHA's (Process Hazard Analysis) for new products and help in updating the Health & Safety program.Responsibilities:Assist in the development of a PSSR's manufacturing equipmentHelp update the Health & Safety program by reviewing policies and procedures and recommending improvementsAssist in safety audits and inspections to identify potential hazards and make recommendations for corrective actionsAssist with the implementation of new safety initiativesWork closely with the with experienced Chemical Engineers and HSE to ensure compliance with safety regulationsParticipate in safety training sessions and provide input on new training programsRequirements:Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program in a related field (e.g. Engineering, Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science)Strong attention to detail and organizational skillsExcellent communication skills, both written and verbalAbility to work independently and as part of a teamProficient in Microsoft OfficePrevious experience in a manufacturing environment a plusThis is a great opportunity for a motivated student who is interested in gaining hands-on experience in developing in plant and batch process engineering. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with experienced professionals and make a real impact on our operations.To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this position and how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. This position is based in the Kansas City metro area. We are conducting in-person interviews only at our facility: 1701 W Vine St Harrisonville, MO 64701. If you are interested, please arrive between 9AM and 3PM Monday through Friday with your resume and complete an application. Resumes submitted through this platform will be discarded without review.
Date: Wed, 10 Sep 2025 2:55 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 01/16/2026 Position: Compliance Summer InternDepartment: ComplianceReporting to: Compliance ManagerLocation: Topeka, KS - OnsiteOverview:Are you ready to make a splash this upcoming summer? Join us as a Compliance Intern and take part in an engaging project aimed at enhancing our compliance program! You’ll not only support our organization’s compliance needs but also have the chance to showcase your work to our compliance leadership team at the end of the summer.What you’ll do: Manage an exciting summer project to enhance reporting capabilities for our surveillance and supervision teamsParticipate in engaging industry training sessions to boost your knowledge and skillsTake on a variety of tasks as needed, contributing to a dynamic and collaborative work environmentExperience you’ll bring:Self-starterAbility to take ownership of projectsExceptional problem determination skills with a high attention to detailConfident, professional and articulate written and verbal communication skillsBonus Points:Completed coursework in corporate compliance, business transactions, or other related topicsPrevious experience in business law, particularly securities, insurance, or compliance lawWhat you’ll get:Access to an on-site café & gymContinuous 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: Fri, 3 Oct 2025 3:59 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 12/03/2025 Position: Creative Operations Intern Department: Creative Services Reporting to: Director of Creative Operations Location: Topeka, KS - Onsite Overview: We are searching for an intern to join our Creative Operations team. The Creative Operations Intern functions as an operations generalist, whose responsibilities span digital asset management, workflow optimization, resource administration, and marketing program support, driving organizational effectiveness and continuous improvement across the team. What you’ll do: Support project management processes in Workfront by entering and updating data, checking reports, auditing templates and projects, and keeping documents organized.Help manage the Digital Asset Management (DAM) system by organizing, naming, and tagging assets, uploading new materials with metadata, and assisting with portal updates.Work collaboratively across teams, adapt to changing technology, and assist with documentation updates, and testing as part of ongoing improvements. Experience you’ll bring:Detail oriented, focused on quality in all aspects of your workStrong organizational and time management skillsResourceful in solving problems and maximizing resourcesAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneously with frequent interruptions Ability to collaborate effectively with a teamAn aptitude for technology, embrace change, and have a desire to learn Bonus Points: Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel Previous office experiencePursuing a degree in Data Analytics, Business or related field What you’ll get: Access to an on-site café & gym Continuous personal and professional development opportunitiesRecognition for hard work & exemplary performance Employee 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: Wed, 29 Oct 2025 2:34 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 11/29/2025 Position: Media Content InternDepartment: Media Solutions Reporting to: Associate Director of Television InitiativesLocation: Topeka, KS - OnsiteOverview:As a Media Content Intern, you'll dive into the dynamic world of TV and radio content development, organization, and dissemination. Working closely with our Media Content team, you'll play a vital role in supporting various projects through research, compliance coordination, writing tasks, and managing email correspondence with clients. You'll also have the chance to tackle special assignments and production tasks, making every day an exciting new challenge. Do you enjoy being at the heart of media production and contributing to the creative process? If so, this is the perfect opportunity for you!What you’ll do: Assist Media Content team in maintaining content library for both radio and TV platformsHelp with researching retirement articles and facts, and maintaining database of sourcesImplement compliance revisions in scriptsPrepare/personalize scripts for upcoming TV and/or radio productionsReview produced radio and TV content as neededAssist TV and Radio production teams as neededExperience you’ll bring:Familiarity with broadcast writing stylePC proficiencyStrong attention to detailAbility to professionally communicate with clients via email, phone, and in-personAbility to meet deadlines and keep pace in a fast-paced environmentAbility to work independently but also as a collaborative team memberProfessional approach and appearanceBonus Points:Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Mass Media, Marketing, Journalism, or another related fieldWhat you’ll get:Access to an on-site café and gymContinuous 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: Wed, 29 Oct 2025 2:27 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 11/29/2025 Position: Content Management InternDepartment: Corporate MarketingReporting to: VP of Corporate MarketingLocation: Topeka, KS - OnsiteOverview:Do you consider yourself a detailed person? Do you enjoy identifying problems and contributing to solutions? We are searching for an intern to join our Corporate Marketing team. This Content Management Intern will assist with the management and creation of internal and external content for all Advisors Excel divisions. Ideally a strong candidate could commit 20-25 hours a week with the team.What you’ll do: Assist with maintenance of our daily business resource site, including but not limited to:Access assistance and requestsResponse to request for assistance finding or accessing resourcesRunning and distributing reports from the siteReview user accounts for accuracyReview resource packages for accuracyPrepare content for new pagesAssist in the creation of content used on resource site and/or social mediaAssist in data cleanup and communicationAssist in identifying existing content to repurposeAssist in organizing and preparing mailingsExperience you’ll bring:Detail oriented, focused on quality in all aspects of your workStrong organizational and time management skillsResourceful in solving problems and maximizing resourcesAn aptitude for technology, embrace change, and have a desire to learnAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneously with frequent interruptionsFamiliarity with Microsoft Office SuiteBonus Points:Previous office experiencePursuing a degree in Marketing, Mass Media, Data Analytics, or a related fieldWhat you’ll get:Access to an on-site café & 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: Wed, 29 Oct 2025 2:38 PM
Employer: Advisors Excel Expires: 11/29/2025 Position: Surveillance Compliance InternDepartment: ComplianceReporting to: Compliance ManagerLocation: Topeka, KS - OnsiteOverview:Are you ready to kickstart your career in compliance? In this dynamic role, you’ll play a crucial part in supporting our compliance efforts by managing data to monitor the day-to-day activities of our advisors and registered representatives. Your essential duties will include auditing data feeds for accurate reporting and tackling data errors to resolve any issues that arise. In a fast-paced, ever-changing regulatory environment, we’re seeking a self-motivated individual who embraces change and thrives on proactive problem-solving. If you’re eager to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you!What you’ll do: Manage and troubleshoot data errors and updates to keep our surveillance system running smoothlyAssist with maintaining active data feeds for personal trading accountsSupport audits of the surveillance systems filesTake charge of compliance projects like a boss! We need someone who can drive these initiatives independently.Support other compliance teams as assigned. Collaboration is key, and we’re all about teamwork!Experience you’ll bring:Self-starter and have interest in compliance and data managementAbility to work independently and take ownership of projectsExceptional problem determination skills with a high attention to detailAbility to gain knowledge and understanding of compliance requirements and regulationsConfident, professional and articulate written and verbal communication skillsBonus Points:Completed coursework in corporate compliance, business transactions, or other related topicsPrevious experience in business law, particularly securities, insurance, or compliance lawWhat you’ll get:Access to an on-site café and gymContinuous 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, 28 Aug 2025 3:31 PM
Employer: Ag Processing Inc (AGP) Expires: 02/28/2026 Are you an engineering major looking for a hands-on, real-world internship?Ag Processing Inc (AGP) is offering paid Summer Engineering Internships at our soy processing, oil refinery, and methyl ester facilities across Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and Minnesota.This isn’t a “sit at a desk all day” internship — you’ll take ownership of a real project that helps improve safety, efficiency, or cost savings in one of our plants. Plus, housing assistance is available if you’re relocating for the summer.What You’ll DoLead a real project that enhances plant safety, efficiency, or cost performanceLearn to create and edit drawings using AutoCAD and NavisworksWork with contractors, consulting firms, and vendors to keep projects on trackCollaborate with management to brainstorm and implement operational and safety improvementsSupport and oversee project constructionPartner with plant operations staff to see your project come to lifeWhat We’re Looking ForCompletion of sophomore or junior year coursework in Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial Technology, Bio Systems, or Ag Engineering (or a similar technical field)Available to work about 10 weeks during May, June, July, and AugustExcited to work in a production plant environmentStrong technical, analytical, and communication skillsA team player with a professional and positive attitudeTake the first step toward your engineering career this summer and gain the kind of experience that makes your resume stand out. Apply today to join a company that values innovation, safety, and growth!Ag Processing Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-verify.
Date: Wed, 13 Aug 2025 11:17 AM
Employer: Allen, Gibbs & Houlik, L.C. Expires: 08/08/2026 Tax & Audit Internship ABOUT AGH:As one of the top 200 CPA and advisory firms in the U.S., AGH has been serving closely held and privately-owned entrepreneurial firms and public sector organizations for more than 80 years. AGH is based in the central U.S., but the firm's reach and specialized expertise available to clients spans the globe. AGH’s more than 130 professionals serve as trusted advisors and provide clients with a broad portfolio of tax, assurance and advisory services. POSITION SUMMARY:Spring or summer interns working in either assurance or tax departments at Wichita's largest CPA and advisory firm: Assurance interns will work on a variety of audits in the manufacturing, financial services, construction, distribution and government/non-profit industries. Tax interns will work on individual, corporate and other tax returns in a variety of industries. Interns will have the opportunity to work with a team of professionals with real life work experience while being mentored on technical and career decisions.At AGH, you will enjoy career opportunities in a thriving community perfect for work and life. The firm's dynamic approach to business ensures a diversified workplace where younger professionals work hand-in-hand with seasoned consultants and accountants. WHY WORK FOR US:At AGH, you will find an environment where good work is rewarded, and growth is valued. AGH offers competitive wages to qualified individuals and the opportunity to grow professionally and personally through diverse work experience and formal training. Our top five people initiatives are:• A challenging variety of work in a continuous learning environment• Career/life integration• Flexible work environment with great opportunity for advancement• Ability to make a difference with clients
Date: Mon, 25 Aug 2025 4:02 PM
Employer: Americo Services, Inc. Expires: 12/31/2025 2026 Summer Internship Program Americo: We’re in this for life!With over 100 years of experience, $8 billion in assets, close to 698,000 policies under administration, and over $31.4 billion of life insurance in force, Americo Financial Life and Annuity Insurance Company is the lead company in one of the largest, independent, privately-held insurance companies in the United States.Personalized, trusted service is the cornerstone of our business. At Americo, it's the people who make things work. We are progressive in our thinking. We are solutions-oriented. We are accessible. We employ honest, ethical business practices. We are real people, passionate about our business. We deliver innovative product solutions that can be tailored to your situation. Our products are priced with integrity to provide long-term value to you. We provide product education, sales tools, technology, and personalized, trusted service to help our distribution partners grow.Job Summary:Launch your career with Americo Life Insurance in our 2026 Summer Internship Program! This position is tasked with providing actuarial support and gaining a working knowledge of actuarial and company systems. You’ll have the opportunity to work on projects, build your skills, and network with professionals and other interns. In addition, you’ll gain real-life experience and explore what it’s like to work as part of an organization that exemplifies people, performance, and possibilities.The program begins in May 2026 and ends in August 2026 (this varies depending on each position). Over the 10 to 12 week program, you will participate in business projects, mentoring, leadership development, and team-building activities designed to set you up for professional success. Most importantly, you will learn what it is like to work at Americo Life Insurance!Key Responsibilities:Collect & clean data necessary to support the actuarial departmentProvide calculations to support development of modelsProvide general actuarial support to supervisor and other functional areasWhat We Offer:We are looking for students who are ready to take on stimulating projects and gain exposure to various industry initiatives. Americo Life Insurance offers the following:10 to 12 weeks of work experience (May – August)A competitive salaryExposure to the Executive Leadership TeamIndependent and team project experiencesCareer developmentNetworking and community engagement opportunitiesAn opportunity for conversionQualifications:We know skills and competencies show up differently based on your life experience. Therefore, if you do not necessarily meet all the listed requirements, we still encourage you to apply for the position.This job might be for you if:You have demonstrated interest and commitment to the actuarial professionYou have a high level of energy, enthusiasm, and professionalismYou have strong communication skills and are passionate about working with othersYou have experience working in Microsoft ExcelYou have analytical, problem-solving and conceptual thinking skillsRequirements:Must be currently pursuing a degree and remain fully enrolled in the program during the duration of the internshipYou have passed or have plans to sit for SOA examsMust be able to begin an internship in May 2026Sophomore through Senior standing in a four-year institution pursuing a Bachelor’s degreeAble to work full-time, 40 hours per week
Date: Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:30 AM
Employer: ANA Educational Foundation Expires: 01/23/2026 MADE is an internship program for undergraduate students interested in the marketing and advertising industry. Founded by the ANA Educational Foundation, MADE connects students with internships at marketing, advertising, media companies including Ad Council, GroupM L'Oréal, IBM, Paramount Pictures, NBCUniversal, Sephora, and Publicis. This paid program is designed to provide the skills, mentors, training and network to help you break into and thrive in the industry.Core AttributesRelentless Explorers & Learners – We are looking for students who are relentless in their pursuit to acquire knowledge and learn more about a wide variety of topics. You might love Shakespeare as much as you love an Instagram post that went viral.Creative Storytellers – We want people who can write and speak in a way that captures the imagination of those around you. While the story itself might be fantastic, knowing how to communicate it is just as important.Data Wonks – If you dream in decimals and thoroughly enjoy long division, you may possess one of the most coveted skills in marketing: data intelligence. Don’t fret if you’re not a math whiz, though. We simply want you to be comfortable using numbers to guide your decision making.Critical Thinking Problem Solvers – Every day, there is a new business problem and there's no textbook with solutions to these problems. We need critical thinkers who can find ways to address problems that the industry has never faced.Action-Orientated Collaborators– We want those who lean toward action and can follow an instinct, but who also bring people along toward that vision. Working together is just as important as knowing how to lead.An Entrepreneurial Mindset – Do you have new ideas? We want that entrepreneurial spirit in the industry. Because of digital disruption, there are no set rules anymore.Cultural Anthropologists – You love culture whether that be film, art, music, or just people. You observe culture as much as you want to create culture. Who Can ApplyThe 2026 MADE Program will be open to undergraduate juniors and seniors only (graduating between May 2026 and May 2027). Current graduate students are eligible to apply for select internships.The Application ProcessApplicants will do the following:Step 1: Submit the Basics – Complete the application form and submit a resume that includes your school, GPA, and other basic information.Step 2: Academic Recommendation – You’ll be asked to submit a professor recommendation after completing step 1. This is so we get a sense of your intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and teamwork skills.Step 3: Recorded Digital Interview – You'll be asked to respond to several interview questions. Answers will be recorded as part of your application. We use this interview to assess your problem solving skills and your interest in the industry.Step 4: Final Interview – If you've been selected as a program finalist, a member of our team will interview you live via our video interview platform.Placement RatesThis is a highly competitive internship. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so the earlier you apply, the better your chances at being placed. It's a long process and final placements can happen anywhere between September- April. MADE interns typically start their summer internship in June.Students interested in interning with marketers (i.e., Mastercard, Sephora, Hershey, L'Oréal) must apply and complete their applications by Friday, October 17th at 11:59pm ET. Students interested in interning at an ad agency or media platform must apply and complete their application by Friday, January 23rd at 11:59pm ET. A complete application is your initial submission form with your resume, an academic recommendation, and the digital interview. Frequently Asked QuestionsPlease visit our frequently asked questions page for more info! Our team is hosting three informational sessions to answer any questions and share tips to stand out. Each date is listed below (Attached with RSVP link):Session 1: September 5th at 1pm ET Session 2: September 16th at 1pm ET Session 3: October 2nd at 4pm ET We look forward to receiving your applications!
