Summer Intern, Policy and Government Affairs: Education Policy

Overview

Emerson Collective (EC) is a company of investors, changemakers, creative thinkers, and problem solvers working to make a lasting mark on the world. 

For our summer internship, we’re looking for college students who think big, are eager to take on challenges, and are ready to collaborate with their teams and with one another.

Emerson Collective’s summer internship program places rising college sophomores, juniors, and seniors - and, for select opportunities, recent college graduates - in paid internship opportunities across Emerson Collective and our longstanding nonprofit partners XQ Institute, E Pluribus Unum, and Chicago CRED. 

Candidates may apply to a maximum of three positions. Any additional submissions will not be considered. 

The Opportunity

The Policy and Government Affairs team leads all policy work across Emerson Collective. 

As the Education Policy intern, you’ll work closely with the team to track policy and political reporting, identifying developments that could impact federal and state education policy. You’ll conduct research, draft materials, and prepare policy updates for internal teams, gaining hands-on experience at the intersection of education, policy, and strategy. You’ll also contribute to broader policy initiatives, helping the team develop strategies and campaigns that advance equitable, evidence-based approaches to learning. Ideal candidates bring strong research and writing skills, demonstrated interest in education and/or literacy policy, and a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset.

Role and Responsibilities 

• Conduct independent research and analysis on early childhood literacy policy, including legislation, funding streams, and evidence-based instructional approaches.
• Monitor state and federal policy developments impacting literacy and education systems. 
• Draft concise policy briefs, memos, and summaries that synthesize complex findings.
• Identify and evaluate promising literacy initiatives and organizations. 
• Support the development of strategic recommendations for Emerson Collective’s education policy and programmatic priorities.
• Proactively manage multiple projects from start to finish, ensuring quality, accuracy, and timeliness without close oversight.
• Collaborate with other teams across Emerson to integrate literacy insights into broader education initiatives.

Qualifications, Skills, and Requirements

• Rising undergraduate junior or senior, preferably studying education policy, literacy, or related fields.
• Demonstrated interest in education policy, literacy, and social impact.
• Proactive, resourceful, and able to work both independently and collaboratively. 
• Exceptional research and writing skills; able to translate data and policy analysis into clear, compelling insights.
• Highly organized and able to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Creative thinker with curiosity and adaptability when tackling new challenges.

Internship Details

The internship is onsite, 40 hours per week from June 15 through August 7, 2026.  A mandatory paid virtual onboarding and orientation will take place June 10 - 12.
 

Compensation

• All interns are paid $25 per hour and can expect to work 40 hours per week from June 15 to August 7 (eight weeks).
• Interns will also be paid $25 per hour for onboarding and orientation sessions taking place June 10–12.
• All interns receive a lunch allowance and a commuter allowance, and may also receive travel and housing allowances as needed. 

Key Dates

• November 18 - January 9: Internship applications accepted, and interviews commence on a rolling basis (Please note that not all applicants will be selected for interviews.)
• January 12 - March 7: Interviews continue, and offers are extended
• June 10-12: Mandatory virtual onboarding and orientation
• June 15: Internship program begins
• August 7: Internship program concludes