Summer Internship Program
OneCarolina Summer Internship Program
The OneCarolina Summer Internship Program provides a unique, paid opportunity for undergraduate students to explore future careers in higher education philanthropy. During the 10-week program, students work on-site with professionals across Carolina’s campus while learning new skills and building lasting connections.
Ready to Apply? VISIT US ON HANDSHAKE
What is Development?
OneCarolina Development is a network of fundraising professionals who work within and across Carolina’s schools, units and institutes to ensure philanthropic support throughout the University. The OneCarolina team advances the mission of the University by forging strong and lasting relationships with, and securing donations from, our alumni, parents, friends, students, faculty and staff as well as key foundation and industry partners.
It takes a lot of different types of people and a variety of skill sets to do this work. If you are interested in making a difference at Carolina, a career in higher education philanthropy might be for you.
About the Program
The OneCarolina Summer Internship Program is a full-time, cohort-style program in which five interns will be matched with a development-related position within a UNC school or unit. Interns are paid $21/hour and work 36 hours each week for 10 weeks.
Beginning on May 19, 2025, interns will spend four days each week (Monday through Thursday) engaged in hands-on work to support fundraising and advancement services at Carolina in areas such as marketing, research, data management, donor relations and stewardship. Fridays consist of a professional development workshop hosted by a UNC staff or faculty member to help interns cultivate new skills and build connections. Students will be asked to work on a variety of projects and deliver a capstone presentation on the final Friday of the program.
Who can apply?
Undergraduate students who will be enrolled as full-time students for the fall 2025 semester are eligible to apply. There is no minimum GPA requirement, but students should be in good academic standing. We are seeking students from a variety of departments, majors and career interests. More information about desired qualifications and skills will be included on the job posting.
FAQ
- What are the dates of the internship?
- The 10-week internship will begin on Monday, May 19, 2025.
- How much and how often are interns paid?
- As hourly employees, interns are paid biweekly at a rate of $21/hour for 36 hours/week.
- Is housing provided?
- No, housing is not provided.
- Do I need to be enrolled in summer classes?
- No, but you do need to be enrolled as a full-time student for the fall 2025 semester.
- Do I need a car?
- All work sites for the internship are located on Chapel Hill Transit bus lines. Friday sessions are typically held at the Spangler Center.
- Am I able to receive course credit for the internship?
- Internship credit requirements vary by department. Check with your advisor.
- Can international students apply?
- Reach out to International Student and Scholar Services to discuss your specific situation. OneCarolina Development is considered an on-campus employer.
- Can I participate in the internship remotely?
- No. The Summer Internship Program is an in-person experience in Chapel Hill.
How to Apply
The Summer 2025 internship application will open in November 2024. Interested students can view the application and apply on Handshake.
Connect With Us
We want to hear from you! Reach the Talent Management team by emailing developmentrecruitment@unc.edu. To learn more about open positions for students in our office, click Visit Us on Handshake. You can stay connected with OneCarolina on social media and LinkedIn.
VISIT US ON HANDSHAKEFind Your Place in OneCarolina
No matter your major, your career path can start with OneCarolina Development. Our interns work across campus on projects that benefit the Carolina community. During the interview process, prospective interns will have the opportunity to learn about the projects and roles that may be available for the Summer 2025 program. Interns will be matched with a role that aligns with their skills, goals and interests.
Past Projects
- Carolina Annual Giving: focus on Student Philanthropy
- Marketing and Communications team: Content Creation and Storytelling
- UNC Health Foundation: Donor Relations and Stewardship
- Arts and Sciences Foundation
Hear from Past Interns
“I came out of this internship with a transformed understanding of development and philanthropy. Connecting and learning from senior faculty, development officers and donor relations teams across different foundations at UNC provided a deep dive into how Carolina operates. I went from being unaware of the opportunities in this field to exploring various career paths within it.”
DEVON HENDERSON ’26, 2024 OneCarolina Intern, Arts & Sciences Foundation
“Understanding the relationships, research and time that go into preserving an institution like UNC is something that will be valuable wherever I go. I am incredibly grateful for the skills imparted to me by the wonderful development staff.”
CAMERON NEALE ’25, 2024 OneCarolina Intern, Marketing & Communications