About Us

During its inaugural year, 25 positions at financial firms throughout Chicago were available to student interns. The numbers have climbed over the years. With the addition of Legal, Architectural, Engineering and Development firms, the Chicago Summer Business Institute has increased the positions offered to student interns. This has allowed the program to successfully broaden its goals, and reach out to more students interested in a valuable internship experience.

The Chicago Summer Business Institute targets high achievers from Chicago’s public, parochial and private high schools. Ideal candidates have above-average grades, extra-curricular activities and plans for college.

The program combines on-the-job experience with classroom education. To achieve a well-rounded curriculum, the work-week is divided into two parts. Four days are spent at work sites, where a supervisor guides and provides the student with general office work and meaningful projects. One afternoon a week, students participate in specially-created seminars. These seminars are designed to help students combine what they learn in the classroom with their on-the-job knowledge. At the close of the program, a graduation ceremony is highlighted with a talk by the Mayor of Chicago or the City Treasurer of Chicago.