About the role#
The Catalyst Internship Program focuses on research, exploration, and implementation of solutions for complex projects. You will work in small teams to identify and test new ideas that support Nelnet's growth. This role provides an opportunity to present your work directly to project advisors and corporate leadership, including company executives.
What you'll do#
- Collaborate in small teams to research and explore innovative challenges.
- Test and validate potential solutions by engaging with internal teams.
- Present findings and recommendations to project advisors and leadership.
- Participate in internal innovation events to source new project ideas.
- Document and communicate project progress, outcomes, and learnings.
- Engage in creative exploration to solve problems.
What you'll need#
- You are a full-time student pursuing a 4-year degree in Business, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Sales, Computer Science, Marketing, Journalism, or AD/PR.
- You are currently enrolled at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
- You have an investigative mindset and enjoy solving problems.
- You can research and digest diverse data sets.
- You work well independently and show creativity.
- You communicate complex ideas clearly through writing and presentations.
- You can build and maintain professional relationships.
- You are willing to learn and experiment with new tools.
- Previous experience in student organizations, clubs, or research competitions is a plus.
Location & details#
- Location: Lincoln, Nebraska.
- Modality: On-site.
- Term: Winter 2027, Summer 2027, and Fall 2027.
- Hours: 15-20 hours per week during the school year and 40 hours per week during the summer.
- Compensation: This is a paid internship.
About Nelnet
Nelnet is a financial services company founded in 1996 and based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The company provides student loan servicing and private loan solutions alongside payment technology for thousands of schools. It also operates fiber internet, TV, and phone services in Nebraska and Colorado. With over 5,000 associates, the organization maintains a presence in more than 30 communities.
How to get in at Nelnet
Applying early at Nelnet gives you a distinct advantage because recruiters review candidates before the applicant pool grows too large. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, so you can submit your materials among the first. This timing often ensures your resume is seen while the hiring team is still actively building their shortlist. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the recruiters behind Nelnet roles directly to ask about the position or a referral. Intern Insider surfaces these specific contacts, allowing you to bypass the general queue and connect with the people actually making the hiring decisions.
