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Freshman Intern Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Freshman Intern information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do freshman intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for freshman intern in Springfield, IL is $16.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $19.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a 3.4 GPA good for internships?

For a freshman intern position, a 3.4 GPA is generally considered competitive, especially if combined with relevant skills, coursework, or extracurricular activities. Many employers value a strong academic record, but they also consider practical experience and motivation when evaluating applicants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freshman Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freshman Intern, you generally need a foundational understanding of the field you’re interning in, good academic standing, and a willingness to learn. Familiarity with basic productivity tools like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, or industry-specific platforms is often expected. Strong communication, adaptability, and time management skills help interns stand out and integrate well with their teams. These skills and qualities are vital for building professional experience, contributing to projects, and making the most of early career opportunities.

What is a Freshman Intern?

A Freshman Intern is a college student, typically in their first year, who participates in an internship program to gain early professional experience. These internships are designed to introduce students to workplace environments, help them build foundational skills, and explore potential career paths. Freshman Interns often take on entry-level tasks, assist with projects, and learn from more experienced professionals. These opportunities can be valuable for networking and developing a resume early in one's academic journey.

What is the difference between Freshman Intern vs Summer Intern?

AspectFreshman InternSummer Intern
CredentialsHigh school or college freshman, minimal experienceVaries; often college students, some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, educational focusProject-based, seasonal, professional setting
Employer UsageCompanies offering early exposure programsOrganizations providing seasonal internships for students

Freshman Interns are typically high school or early college students gaining initial work experience, often during the academic year. Summer Interns are usually college students participating in seasonal programs, often with more specific project roles. Both roles serve as entry points into industries, but Summer Internships tend to be more structured and project-focused, while Freshman Internships emphasize learning and exposure.

Can a 15 year old be an intern?

Freshman Intern positions typically require applicants to be at least 16 years old due to labor laws and company policies. Most internships for minors also require parental consent and may have restrictions on working hours and tasks. Therefore, a 15-year-old generally cannot qualify for a standard internship role without special arrangements or programs designed for younger students.

Can I do internships as a freshman?

Freshman interns are common in many industries, especially in fields like technology, marketing, and business. While some internships have age or experience requirements, many organizations offer programs specifically designed for high school students or freshmen, often requiring basic skills, a resume, and sometimes a letter of recommendation. Early internships can provide valuable experience and skill development for future career opportunities.

What types of tasks and projects can a Freshman Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Freshman Intern, you'll typically be assigned entry-level tasks that help you learn about the organization and develop foundational skills. Common responsibilities may include supporting team members with research, data entry, organizing documents, assisting with meetings, and participating in training sessions. While you may not lead projects, you'll often have the chance to collaborate with other interns and team members, gaining exposure to different functions within the company. This hands-on experience is designed to help you build confidence and identify areas of interest for future career growth.
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Freshman Intern jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Freshman Intern job openings:
Freshman Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freshman Intern job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Internship, 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,120 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Financial Planning Internship

Northwestern Mutual - Central Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 23 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Benefits:
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company parties
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

Financial Planning Internship Program
The Northwestern Mutual College Financial Planning internship offers hands-on experience in building a financial planning practice with the support of a Fortune 500 company. Interns gain guidance, connections, and tools to develop their skills while engaging with experts and learning how financial strategies and solutions are introduced to clients. Key benefits include:
  • Flexible schedules to balance with classes.
  • Real-world experience in prospecting, networking, and business strategy.
  • Training in proprietary planning software and licensing (Life, Accident, Health insurance).
  • Opportunities for certifications (Series 6 & 63, CFP).
  • Weekly coaching and professional development.
  • Access to leadership programs and recognition events.
This program prepares interns for future opportunities, including a full-time Financial Representative or Advisor role upon graduation, while fostering personal and professional growth.
Follow this link to learn more about our internship: https://youtu.be/zYwzixA9SdM
At Northwestern Mutual Central Illinois, we are guided by the core values of Courage, Passion, and Growth. These principles shape everything we do, from how we support our clients to how we build our team. Our culture strikes the balance between professionalism and approachability, creating a collaborative and supportive environment where new Financial Representatives are set up to succeed.
Our commitment to impact extends beyond financial services. We take pride in giving back to our community through support of local organizations such as HSHS St. Johns Childrens Hospital, Contact Ministries, the James Project, and Alexs Lemonade Stand. If you're looking for a career where you can make a difference, both in your clients lives and in your community, while building a business with unlimited potential, wed love to talk with you.
Meet Our Intern Alumni:

Eli Cook:
  • Current role and time with NM: Growth & Development Director & Financial Advisor; 12 years
  • University attended: University of Illinois Springfield
  • Graduation year: December 2017
  • Brief description of their college experience: Eli began his Northwestern Mutual journey as a college freshman, gaining hands-on experience, earning his securities licenses, and building a client base before graduating from UIS. Now a successful full-time advisor and Growth & Development Director, he leads the internship program and is passionate about helping students turn the internship into a long-term career.
Hunter Newbold:
  • Current role and time with NM: College Unit Director & Financial Advisor; 2.5 years
  • University attended: Illinois College
  • Graduation year: December 2024
  • Brief description of their college experience: Hunter studied Finance and Economics at Illinois College and held multiple leadership roles in the Investment Club before being recruited into the Northwestern Mutual internship. After earning his securities licenses and gaining experience while still in school, he transitioned into a full-time advisor role and now serves as College Unit Director, helping lead and support the internship program.
Gabby Njapa:
  • Current role and time with NM: Internship Coordinator; 2.5 years
  • University attended: Illinois State University
  • Graduation year: December 2023
  • Brief description of their college experience: Gabby began her Northwestern Mutual internship in the summer of 2023 and continued through her final semester, graduating with a degree in Business Administration. While she ultimately chose a different career path than advising, she loved her experience and now serves as Internship Coordinator, working alongside Eli and Hunter to support and run the internship program.
Are you a fit for this internship?
  • Full-time students (juniors and seniors preferred)
  • Ambitious, with a curiosity for business development
  • Highly involved on campus (leader, athlete, campus orgs, student government, etc.)
  • Excellent time-management skills
  • Business savvy and desire to increase critical thinking abilities
  • Professional: Coachable, responds well to accountability, strong communication skills, articulate
  • Financial service interest: Financially motivated, capacity for hard work, interest in making an impact with others
  • Key characteristics: Motivated, competitive, willingness to overcome obstacles/deal with adversity
Compensation & Benefits
  • Strong Earnings Potential
  • Learning and Development Financial Incentives
  • Productivity Bonuses
  • Exposure to the financial services industry, including optional licensing education for students who qualify and are interested. Licensing is not required to begin the internship.
Launch your internship with hands-on experience, impactful training, and the opportunity to build a foundation for your future in business!
Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Patrick Scheina is a General Agent of NM and not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.