Content & Designer Intern | Sophomores & Jr.'s | Reston, VA

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Content & Designer Intern | Sophomores & Juniors

Company: Ellucian

Location: Reston, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Full-time Internship

Category: Marketing & Design Operations

Date Posted: February 25, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (Internship)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on developing external communications and visual assets, blending content creation with graphic design principles within the higher education technology sector.

• The role requires proficiency in content drafting, editing, and visual design using tools like Canva and potentially Adobe Creative Suite, emphasizing brand consistency and audience engagement.

• Interns will collaborate with senior designers and content producers, contributing to campaigns and storytelling initiatives that shape Ellucian's external presence.

• A key aspect involves transforming complex technical concepts into clear, compelling narratives and visuals, leveraging AI tools to enhance productivity and creativity.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title specifies "Content & Designer Intern," the responsibilities and required skills strongly align with roles in Marketing Operations, specifically those that bridge content strategy, brand management, and visual communication. The emphasis on transforming complex topics into clear messaging and supporting campaigns indicates a need for operational excellence in content delivery and brand execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Draft and edit external communications, including press releases, thought leadership articles, marketing collateral, and internal messaging, ensuring alignment with Ellucian's brand voice and strategic objectives.

• Design branded visual assets for various platforms (one-pagers, presentations, reports, digital content) using Canva, and potentially Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) for enhanced visual storytelling.

• Collaborate closely with senior graphic designers and content producers to support integrated marketing campaigns and overarching storytelling initiatives.

• Translate intricate educational technology concepts and product features into easily understandable and engaging content for diverse external audiences.

• Utilize AI tools to assist in content generation, brainstorming, editing processes, and the creation of visual elements, staying abreast of emerging technologies in content production.

• Ensure all created content and designs strictly adhere to Ellucian's established brand guidelines, maintaining a consistent and professional external image.

• Actively contribute fresh ideas and innovative approaches during team brainstorming sessions for content and design strategies.

• Partner with cross-functional teams, including Marketing and Communications departments, on high-visibility projects that require integrated communication efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for structured content development and a systematic approach to visual asset creation. The emphasis on brand alignment and cross-functional collaboration suggests that operational efficiency in producing high-quality, on-brand materials is a core expectation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently enrolled in a community college or a 4-year institution pursuing a degree relevant to Communications, Marketing, Journalism, Graphic Design, or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience through class projects, internships, campus organizations, or freelance work in copywriting and content creation.

Required Skills:

• Strong passion for storytelling, communications, marketing, journalism, or design.

• Proven copywriting and editing skills with a keen attention to clarity, tone, and grammar.

• Proficiency in Canva for creating professional-looking visual assets and marketing materials.

• Excellent organizational skills with the demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.

• A creative and discerning eye for design principles, layout, and visual appeal.

• Eagerness to receive feedback and a proactive attitude towards learning and skill development.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop, for more advanced design capabilities.

• Familiarity with AI tools for content creation, editing, or design ideation.

• Understanding of brand voice and visual identity principles in corporate communications.

• Basic knowledge of marketing campaign support and content production workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level for an internship implies that practical application of skills through academic or extracurricular work is highly valued. The emphasis on Canva with Adobe as a plus suggests a tiered approach to design proficiency, prioritizing accessibility and foundational skills for broader application.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of work demonstrating copywriting and editing skills, such as blog posts, marketing copy samples, or press release drafts.

• Visual design samples created in Canva, showcasing an understanding of branding, layout, and audience-appropriate aesthetics for one-pagers, social media graphics, or presentations.

• Examples of transforming complex information into clear, concise, and engaging content, illustrating problem-solving through communication.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not expected from an intern, demonstrating an understanding of how content and design processes contribute to broader marketing and communication workflows is beneficial.

• Ability to follow established brand guidelines and content creation workflows efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship role, the "portfolio" is less about formal client deliverables and more about showcasing foundational skills and potential. The focus will be on the applicant's ability to articulate their creative process, demonstrate core competencies in writing and design, and show their capacity to learn and adapt to established operational workflows.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for paid internships in the Reston, VA area, and considering the specific responsibilities and full-time commitment (40 hours/week), a competitive hourly rate is expected. For interns in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, rates typically range from $18 to $25 per hour for roles requiring creative and technical skills.

• Estimated Hourly Rate: $18 - $25 USD

Benefits:

• Paid Charity Days: Two paid days to volunteer for charitable causes, reflecting a commitment to corporate social responsibility.

• Paid Holidays: Standard paid holidays observed by the company, providing time off during key periods.

• Meal Stipend: A $100 meal stipend to support daily living expenses during the internship period.

• Rewards & Recognition: Access to the Bonusly platform for peer-to-peer recognition, fostering a positive and appreciative work environment.

• Professional Development: Participation in an award-winning internship program with structured mentorship, executive Q&A sessions, and "day-in-the-life" conversations with alumni and leaders.

Working Hours:

• Full-time commitment, typically 40 hours per week, running from May 18, 2026, to August 7, 2026.

• The hybrid work arrangement suggests a structured schedule with specific days allocated for in-office collaboration and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical paid internship compensation in the Reston/DC area for roles requiring specialized skills like content creation and design, factoring in the full-time commitment. The benefits package emphasizes professional development and employee well-being, aligning with a structured internship program.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Education Technology (EdTech), Software as a Service (SaaS)

Company Size: Ellucian is a significant player in the EdTech space, with a global presence and a large customer base (over 2,800 customers in 50+ countries, serving over 20 million students). While the exact current employee count isn't provided, the company's market leadership and extensive reach suggest a large, established organization.

Founded: Ellucian has decades of experience in the higher education technology sector, indicating a stable and mature company with deep domain expertise.

Team Structure:

• The intern will report to the Director of Content Production and Design within the External Communications team.

• The team structure involves close collaboration with Senior Graphic Designers, Content Producers, and cross-functional partners from Communications and Marketing departments.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Storytelling: The company emphasizes using data to inform its AI-powered platform and drive insights, suggesting that content and design efforts are ideally grounded in understanding audience needs and business objectives.

• Agile Content Development: The mention of supporting campaigns and transforming complex topics implies a need for flexible and responsive content creation processes, likely involving iterative development and feedback loops.

• Brand Consistency: A strong emphasis is placed on aligning content and design with Ellucian's brand voice and visual standards, indicating established brand governance processes.

Company Website: https://careers.ellucian.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Ellucian's focus on higher education technology and its large customer base suggest a culture that values expertise, innovation, and a commitment to student success. The internship program's structure points towards an organization that invests in talent development and provides significant learning opportunities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship position, serving as a foundational step into roles within Marketing Operations, Communications, or Design. It's designed for students early in their academic careers (Sophomores & Juniors) to gain practical experience.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report directly to the Director of Content Production and Design, receiving guidance and mentorship within the External Communications team. This direct reporting line ensures focused learning and project support.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct impact is developmental, their contributions to drafting communications, designing assets, and supporting campaigns directly influence how Ellucian presents itself externally. This role provides a glimpse into how operational excellence in content and design underpins broader marketing and communication strategies, ultimately affecting brand perception and stakeholder engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen skills in copywriting, editing, visual design (Canva, Adobe Suite), and content production workflows relevant to the EdTech industry.

• Industry Exposure: Gain firsthand experience in the higher education technology sector, understanding its unique communication challenges and opportunities.

• Professional Networking: Build connections with industry professionals, including managers, senior team members, and fellow interns, through mentorship programs and networking events.

• Career Path Exploration: Exposure to various career paths within Ellucian through executive Q&A sessions and "day-in-the-life" discussions, potentially leading to future full-time opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The internship is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience, with explicit mentions of mentorship, executive interactions, and an intern community. This suggests a deliberate program designed to foster growth and potentially identify future talent for full-time roles within marketing, communications, or operations functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, combining remote work with in-office collaboration.

Office Location(s):

• Reston, Virginia: 2003 Edmund Halley Drive, Reston, VA 20191

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires working closely with Senior Graphic Designers, Content Producers, and cross-functional teams, indicating a dynamic and interactive workspace.

• Technology & Tools: Access to standard office technology, design software (Canva, potentially Adobe Creative Suite), and AI tools necessary for content production and design.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct mentorship from the Director of Content Production and Design, as well as collaboration with a broader team on tangible projects.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time internship from May 18, 2026, to August 7, 2026.

• The hybrid model suggests a structured schedule, likely involving specific days dedicated to in-office work for team collaboration and meetings, and other days for remote tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role indicates a modern work environment that balances flexibility with the need for in-person collaboration essential for creative and communication-focused teams. This setup is common for roles requiring both focused individual work and team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on academic background, relevant skills (copywriting, design), and passion for the field.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a creative exercise or portfolio review to evaluate practical skills in content creation and/or design. This might include a short writing sample or a review of existing design work.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Interviews with the hiring manager (Director of Content Production and Design) and possibly other team members to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, problem-solving abilities, and eagerness to learn.

• Final Round: Possibly a brief discussion with broader marketing or communications leadership to confirm fit and enthusiasm for the internship program.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples of both written content (e.g., blog posts, marketing copy, ad copy) and visual designs (e.g., social media graphics, presentations, simple infographics created in Canva).

• Highlight Process: For visual designs, briefly explain your thought process, how you interpreted the brief, and why you made certain design choices. For writing, explain the objective of the piece and the target audience.

• Demonstrate Brand Alignment: If possible, show work that adheres to specific brand guidelines or explain how you would approach adapting your style to Ellucian's brand.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): For any past projects, mention any measurable outcomes or feedback received, even if from academic assignments.

• Keep it Concise: Focus on quality over quantity. Select your strongest, most relevant pieces.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to creating compelling content and visually appealing designs for a B2B audience, particularly in the EdTech sector.

• Think about how you would simplify complex technical information for a general audience.

• Review Ellucian's current marketing materials and website to understand their brand voice and visual identity.

• Be ready to articulate why you are passionate about this specific internship and how it aligns with your career aspirations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship, the interview process will heavily focus on potential, enthusiasm, and foundational skills rather than extensive prior experience. The portfolio review will be key to demonstrating practical application of required skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Canva: Essential for daily design tasks, creating branded assets, marketing collateral, and presentations. Proficiency is a requirement.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop): Preferred, offering advanced capabilities for graphic design, layout, and image editing. Experience with these tools will be a significant advantage.

• AI Tools: Increasingly important for content development, brainstorming, editing, and design ideation. Familiarity with tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, or similar AI assistants is beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tool experience is explicitly required for this role, though exposure to marketing automation platforms within a broader marketing context could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Canva as a required tool, with Adobe as a preferred one, indicates a focus on accessible and efficient design solutions. The inclusion of AI tools signals Ellucian's forward-thinking approach to content production workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: Encouraging fresh ideas and creative approaches to content and design challenges.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with team members and cross-functional partners to achieve common goals.

• Excellence: Maintaining high standards for content quality, design aesthetics, and brand consistency.

• Customer Focus: Understanding and addressing the needs of external audiences in higher education.

• Continuous Learning: Embracing feedback and actively seeking opportunities to develop new skills.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and teamwork are essential, given the need to work with senior designers, content producers, and various departments.

• A proactive approach to seeking input and providing constructive feedback is likely valued.

• The hybrid environment necessitates effective communication through digital channels as well as in-person interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Ellucian's emphasis on its AI-powered platform and data-driven approach suggests a culture that values analytical thinking alongside creativity. The internship program's structure also points to a supportive and developmental environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complexity: The primary challenge will be converting complex EdTech concepts and product details into clear, accessible, and engaging content and visuals for diverse audiences.

• Brand Adherence: Consistently meeting Ellucian's specific brand voice and visual standards across all deliverables.

• Balancing Multiple Tasks: Managing various content and design requests simultaneously under tight deadlines, typical of a fast-paced marketing environment.

• Adapting to New Tools: Quickly learning and effectively utilizing new design software or AI tools as required for projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Experience: Gain practical skills in content creation, copywriting, editing, and graphic design within a professional setting.

• Industry Insight: Develop a deep understanding of the higher education technology landscape and its communication nuances.

• Professional Skills Development: Enhance collaboration, communication, time management, and project management skills.

• Mentorship and Networking: Benefit from structured mentorship and opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The internship is designed to immerse interns in real-world challenges, providing a robust learning experience that goes beyond theoretical knowledge. The focus on transferable skills makes this a valuable opportunity for career development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Content Strategy: "How would you approach creating a compelling piece of thought leadership content about the future of AI in higher education, considering Ellucian's perspective?" (Focus on understanding the audience, key messages, and potential angles.)

• Design Process: "Describe your process for designing a one-pager that effectively communicates the benefits of a new software feature to university administrators." (Highlight your steps from brief to final design, including research and iteration.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you're asked to create visuals for a campaign promoting student retention. What are some creative approaches you might consider, and how would you ensure they align with our brand?" (Demonstrate creativity, brand awareness, and strategic thinking.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in an internship with Ellucian specifically, and what do you hope to learn from our program?" (Show genuine interest in the company and its mission.)

• "How do you approach receiving and incorporating feedback on your creative work?" (Emphasize your ability to be receptive and learn.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each piece in your portfolio, explain the objective, your role, the tools used, your process, and the outcome or key learnings.

• Focus on Relevance: Select examples that best showcase the skills mentioned in the job description (copywriting, Canva design, transforming complex ideas).

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Anticipate questions about your design choices, writing style, and how you would adapt your work for Ellucian.

• Showcase Potential: Even if work is academic, highlight your ability to produce professional-quality results and your eagerness to grow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative aptitude, operational understanding of content/design processes, and a strong cultural fit with Ellucian's values and internship program goals.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Ellucian careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate a digital portfolio or a selection of your best work that specifically highlights your copywriting, editing, and Canva design skills. Include examples that demonstrate your ability to simplify complex topics and adhere to brand guidelines.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize skills and experiences relevant to content creation, design, and communication. Use keywords from the job description such as "copywriting," "Canva," "visual design," "content production," and "collaboration."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your creative process, your approach to problem-solving, and your understanding of Ellucian's mission in higher education technology. Be ready to walk through your portfolio pieces and discuss your learning goals for the internship.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Ellucian, its products, its mission, and its recent communications. Understand their target audience and how this internship contributes to their overall external communications strategy.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.