We are seeking a part-time Project Intern to join our Chicago-based higher education advisory team for Summer 2026. This opportunity is designed specifically for a student pursuing Higher Education Administration (or a closely related field) who brings foundational knowledge of how institutions operate—and is eager to learn how planning, analytics, and advisory work shape the future of campuses.

This is not a “get coffee” internship. Our interns contribute meaningfully to live client engagements and are expected to deliver value to both clients and internal teams.

Opportunity

Brailsford & Dunlavey (B&D) leads the planning, development, and management of the places that shape and strengthen our communities. For more than 30 years, we have partnered with colleges and universities to align physical assets with institutional mission, vision, and strategy.

As a Project Intern, you will support research, analysis, and synthesis across a range of higher education planning engagements. You will work alongside experienced advisors to help institutions make informed decisions about housing, student life facilities, athletics, and other mission-critical assets.

While you may not yet have technical experience in financial modeling or planning, you will bring institutional insight, curiosity, and a desire to learn. In return, you will gain hands-on exposure to advisory work and develop the analytical and professional skills necessary for long-term growth in the field.

Interns at B&D are empowered to manage their own priorities, take ownership of deliverables, and contribute proactively—while operating within a collaborative team structure that provides clear expectations, guidance, and mentorship.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research and data collection to support client engagements, including:

  • Market and industry research

  • Stakeholder interviews and focus group support

  • Survey design and analysis

  • Institutional benchmarking

  • Space planning support

  • Financial modeling assistance

  • Secondary and internet-based research

• Synthesize complex information into clear, actionable insights that support institutional decision-making.

• Develop organized and accurate presentation materials and written deliverables that contribute to client-ready recommendations.

• Collaborate with team members to test ideas, refine insights, and strengthen recommendations.

• Support quality control and project coordination activities.

• Contribute thoughtfully to team discussions and proactively alleviate workload by identifying ways to add value.

• Engage in learning and professional development opportunities throughout the internship.

What We’re Looking For

• Preferred- Third or fourth year undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in Higher Education Administration or a closely related field.

• Open to third or fourth-year students pursuing a degree in urban planning, real estate development, economics, finance, or a related field.

• Prior experience in higher education administration, student affairs, institutional research, or university operations is ideal.

• Strong interest in improving colleges and universities through strategy, planning, and analysis.

• Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and eagerness to learn new analytical tools and approaches.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to manage time and priorities independently in a professional environment.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Who Thrives in This Role

This internship is ideal for someone who:

• Wants to prove themselves and contribute meaningfully

• Takes initiative rather than waiting for direction

• Is comfortable being accountable for their work

• Actively pursues growth

• Is motivated by mission-driven work

You will have agency and responsibility in your day-to-day work, supported by a collaborative team that sets clear expectations and provides mentorship along the way.

Apply Today

Our application process includes a resume, a cover letter (optional), and a few values-based questions. We’re excited to learn more about you—beyond just your resume.

This role's target base annual salary range is currently $18.00-25.00/hr. Pay scales are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of several factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to job-related skills, relevant education, experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate, and pay relative to other team members.

Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. participates in E-Verify