Summary
Higher Learning Advocates is seeking a paid intern for Spring 2021. Reporting to the deputy executive director, the Higher Learning Advocates Communications + Policy Intern will assist in the coordination of communications, policy, and advocacy efforts for the organization.
Responsibilities
Activities will include researching matters concerning higher education and public policy, drafting content for Higher Learning Advocates’ communications platforms (including our website and social media), assisting staff with event planning and management, and supporting staff members as needed with the execution and promotion of programmatic work. Specific responsibilities will include:
- Drafting materials for outreach to external audiences, such as social media, direct email blasts, news releases, fact sheets and policy briefs, infographics, and blog posts.
- Assisting with the implementation of the organization’s social media strategy.
- Conducting research related to policy issues and legislative activity and providing reports and updates to staff.
- Monitoring media coverage, social media, and legislative activity related to the organization’s key issues.
- Attending events, panels, and hearings on the organization’s behalf.
- Updating the organization’s website to maintain fresh content.
- Working with staff to support office operations and event logistics.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
The Communications + Policy Intern will approach these tasks as an entrepreneurial enterprise, requiring a proactive approach. This role requires a personable, creative, dynamic, well-organized, and highly-motivated person with a strong interest in communications, advocacy, or public policy.
- Undergraduate study in public policy, political science, communications, journalism or another relevant field.
- Strong writing and communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, Google suite.
- Demonstrated experience balancing multiple projects under tight deadlines.
- Ability to thrive in a small team environment where teamwork, creativity, and flexibility are valued.
- Comfort or willingness to learn the use of digital marketing tools, content management platforms, and social media dashboards.
- A passion for or personal connection to education, public policy, or economic mobility issues.
Schedule and Hours
- At least 24 hours a week of remote work, maximum 40 hours
- Duration of 12 weeks, early January-April 2021 (dates approximate)
Work Environment and Physical Demands
- Work is performed remotely until further notice.
- Visual and auditory acuity for extensive use of various forms of technology.
Compensation
This is a paid internship. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
To Apply
Submit a resume and cover letter to careers@higherlearningadvocates.org with “Spring Communications + Policy Internship” in the subject line.
Applications are due by January 15, 2021.
Higher Learning Advocates is an equal opportunity employer. Diverse candidates, including women and people of color, are encouraged to apply.
Based in Washington, D.C., Higher Learning Advocates is a non-profit advocacy organization working to shift federal policy from higher education to higher learning—education and training beyond high school that leads to a degree, credential, or employment. While more students are participating in higher education than ever before, there is a vast and growing disconnect between federal policy and the needs of today’s students, employers, and communities. We are working toward federal policies that create transparent pathways to success, incentivize innovation, protect students and taxpayers, and improve outcomes.
