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 Chicagoland, we are driven by a mission to impact lives and build secure futures. Guided by our core values of Abundance, Integrity, Growth, Loyalty, and Culture, we attract, launch, and support people in financial services who share our commitment to making a difference. Recognized as one of the Top Places to Work in Chicago since 2017, our firm continues to grow toward an ambitious ten-year vision, expanding to eight offices, developing 200 advisors, and impacting 200,000 lives. As part of a company set to pay a record-breaking $9.2 billion in dividends in 2026, our advisors thrive within a culture built on purpose, excellence, and community. Beyond the business, we proudly give back through organizations like Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Feed My Starving Children, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Bear Necessities.
Meet Our Intern Alumni:
Kevin Pabst is a former Michigan State University hockey player and Economics graduate who interned from 2011 to 2013. After transitioning directly into a full-time role, he quickly rose to become a Top 10 College Unit Director in the country, ultimately opening his own office as a Managing Director in 2024.
Ryan Kramer, a Marketing graduate from Illinois State University, began his career as an intern with Northwestern Mutual in 1997 and transitioned into a full-time Financial Representative after graduation. He went on to become a Top 10 College Unit Director, was promoted to Assistant Regional Director at the Milwaukee Home Office in 2012, earned recognition as an Ingram’s 40 Under 40 recipient, and was named Managing Partner of Northwestern Mutual Chicagoland in 2015.
Mike Lankford, a Bachelor of Arts graduate from Illinois Wesleyan University, began his career as an intern with Northwestern Mutual in 2007. He was recognized as a Top 10 Financial Advisor in his agency for eight consecutive years and achieved the #1 Advisor ranking multiple times. Mike also earned membership in the company’s elite Forum Group—representing the top 5% of advisors nationwide—and was recognized as a Top 5 Advisor in the Central Region.
Full-time student (juniors, seniors, or final year of a Master’s program preferred)
Current full-time student status required (no sponsorship provided)
Ambitious, with a curiosity for business development
Highly involved on campus (leader, athlete, campus organizations, student government, etc.)
Excellent time-management skills
Business savvy with a desire to strengthen critical thinking abilities
Professional: coachable, responds well to accountability, strong communication skills, and articulate
Interest in financial services: financially motivated, strong work ethic, and a desire to make an impact
Key characteristics: motivated, competitive, and willing to overcome obstacles and 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. Ryan Kramer is a General Agent of NM and not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.