Summer Associate Program


The High Lantern Group Summer Associate Program is a highly competitive, structured program that exposes graduate students and early-stage professionals to a wide range of consulting work in the fields of strategic communication, public affairs, public policy, and business strategy. Over twelve weeks, associates are given real responsibilities and support critical client work—it is the best way to gain first-hand exposure to the day-to-day life of an HLG consultant and to explore consulting as a career path.

A Day in the Life

  • 9:00 Join your supervisor in a meeting with a trade association to discuss upcoming legislation.
  • 10:00 Conduct an opportunity scan to identify timely issues that our clients can leverage through a blog post, earned media, or another platform.
  • 10:30 Brainstorm session to find angles for pitching a client’s story to media.
  • 12:00 Interview a team member from another office and learn more about the work of one of your colleagues in another HLG location.
  • 12:30 Connect with design team to review pitch deck infographics.
  • 1:00 Seminar with an HLG expert on a core consulting skill, such as developing a strategy, crafting messages, pitching an op-ed, or coaching a thought leader.
  • 2:00 Partner with an HLG leader to develop a proposal for a new client project.
  • 4:00 Draft an issue fact sheet that refutes misconceptions about our client’s signature issues.

Testimonials

“As a Summer Associate, you’re given real responsibilities from day one and surrounded by a team that invests in your growth. You’re trusted to contribute, encouraged to ask questions, and supported by mentors who open doors. The experience gave me clarity, confidence, and the foundation for a career I’m excited
to keep building.”

Mary Davis

“As a Summer Associate, I worked on real challenges for top clients. Becoming an Associate felt like the next step, not a new start, because I was already embedded on the team.”

Chandler Pearson

“The seminars were a highlight. They provided a deep understanding of the firm, the work we do, and the skills needed for success — all while building connections across the firm and strengthening relationships within our cohort.”

Emma Stutts

Program Details

Program Dates

May 26–August 14, 2026

Program Locations

  • Atlanta
  • Los Angeles
  • New York City
  • Philadelphia
  • Washington, DC

Application Details

Applications for 2026 Summer Associates are closed.