Scholar Communications Intern

Scholar Communications InternThe Scholar Communications Intern plays an important role in helping Chicago Scholars keep Scholars informed about opportunities, programs, and resources. This role reports to the Associate Director of Scholar Communications and supports the day-to-day execution of Scholar communications, assists with tracking Scholar opportunities, and contributes a Scholar-centered perspective to communication and marketing efforts across programs. The Scholar Communications Intern also works closely with the Career and Leadership Advancement team to support data management.This role is a part-time & hourly position without benefits. The rate per hour is $17/hour, and the number of hours that you will be permitted to work each week is up to 15 hours on average. The number of hours per week can be flexible to accommodate school schedules and heavy project periods.Key ResponsibilitiesScholar CommunicationsDrafts Scholar newsletters, emails, and text messages using templates and provided graphics.Monitors opportunities and requests shared by Chicago Scholars staff; elevates key requests to Associate Director of Scholar Communications; liaises with the REACH intern to ensure all opportunities are listed on the REACH opportunities board.Serves as liaison between Chicago Scholars staff and Scholars for communication-related outreach, including newsletter highlights, event promotions, and coordinating filming for videos.Contributes creative ideas for recurring newsletters and engagement content, such as Scholar spotlights, wellness features, and student-centered resources.Participates in planning meetings with the Marketing and Communications team. Shadows the Associate Director of Scholar Communications as they develop strategies and analyze data.Data ManagementIn collaboration with the Career and Leadership Advancement team, update Salesforce database with current and updated career partner and Scholar information (for example: primary contact, contact emails, institutional profile/demographic, partnership type, internship placement etc.)Assist with database management related to marketing and communications campaigns (i.e., updating and removing email and mailing addresses)Additional ResponsibilitiesMaintains archive of Scholar communications and materialsCollaborates with other Development and External Engagement interns on cross-team projectsThis role will occasionally work on nights and weekends for career events and programmingSupport administrative tasks and events as neededOther duties, as assignedCapstoneThe Scholar Communications intern will compile a portfolio of their best work at the end of each internship term (typically an academic year) and participate in a presentation and conversation to discuss their learning and goals. This presentation and conversation will be attended by the Marketing and Communications team, alongside other select staff members and interns.Learning Objectives1.

Develop and refine skills related to communications and creative work, including: receiving and implementing feedback; working collaboratively to achieve diverse goals; identifying and solving problems; and understanding and meeting the needs of an audience.2. Gain an understanding of how marketing and communications strategy is developed and executed.3. Learn how to interpret data from marketing and communications projects; learn how to use that data to adjust and improve future work.4. Improve writing and communication skills.Potential Learning OpportunitiesDepending on the intern's skills and interests, stretch projects may be assigned once a working relationship has been established. These projects might involve developing Scholar resources like handbooks and guides; conducting surveys or other research related to Scholar experiences; collaborating with other departments to develop projects and assets.RequirementsEducation: Completed at least first year of collegeExperience: 0-2 yearsMust be located in the Chicagoland area and be able to regularly commute to the Chicago Scholars office at 141 W. Jackson Blvd.Excellent communication skillsTechnical KnowledgeOutlookBasic Knowledge of design software like Canva or Adobe productsFlexibility and ability to take feedback professionally, not personallyCore CompetenciesAccountability/Project Management: Effectively manages own work, and work of teams when relevant, ensuring delivery of high-quality work.Teamwork/Collaboration: Demonstrates awareness and respect of cultural and individual values. Listens to ideas from others, even when different from own.

Is careful to ensure all sides are heard reaching a conclusion. Shares time, energy and knowledge with others to ensure they can succeed.Communication: Communication is the ability to read and interpret information effectively, clearly articulate a plan of action, and influence others by way of written and verbal mechanisms.Adaptability: Ability to operate flexibly in changing contexts and operating environments. Ability to manage change effectively to support teams and reach intended goals.AI Literacy & Engagement Our team leverages AI to augment human creativity and enhance impact. In this role, you will be encouraged to experiment with AI tools to improve your work and drive efficiency. We seek individuals who demonstrate curiosity about emerging technologies and are comfortable integrating AI into everyday tasks. You will proactively identify areas of friction in workflows where AI can improve speed, quality, or insight, while maintaining a strong understanding of data security, privacy, and ethical considerations in AI use.Starting Salary: $17 per hour, usually 15 hours per week (part-time hourly role without benefits)Best Offer First Policy: The data nationally show for every $1 paid to white men, women earn 82 cents, black men earn 88 cents, and black women earn 76 cents. Women and black and brown people are also less likely to negotiate than their white male peers.

Chicago Scholars has decided to offer our best offer first rather than wait for a potential negotiation. This allows us to set salaries based on market data and internal equity and ensure fair and equal pay for every role.If you have questions regarding either of the above policies, or any of Chicago Scholars employment policies, please reach out to the Human Resources team at with the subject line: Policy Question.To ApplyPlease click 'Apply' to submit your application which should include a resume and cover letter. Please include a cover letter that explains your experience or interest in communications and marketing (i.e. content creation, writing, advertising, data analysis, etc.).