Women in Alternatives: In, Up and Beyond
IN: Paradigm Changers Internship Program
Building a pathway for the next generation of women to access careers in alternative investments.
Interested in learning more about our summer 2025 application?
Register for our internship information session, happening September 24, 2024
The Paradigm Changers Internship Program
Did you know?
Alternative investment firms (including private equity) play a critical role in financing American innovation and helping people improve their lives. They are some of the leading investors in healthcare, life sciences, software, cybersecurity, telecommunications, and more!
Summer 2024 Cohort
Naomi Alexander
Bridget Asante
Joadan Demissew
Sofia Douki
Priya Gandhi
Tracy Gonsalves
Mtab Habib
Lindsey Huang
Maya Kini
Jamie Milton
Sumaya Mohamed
Griselda Pereyra
Melissa Sanchez
Stephanie Severe
Oluseyi Yoloye
Thank You to Our 2024 Host Firms
Hear from Past Participants
When
- NAIC-hosted pre-internship training:
February – May - NAIC-hosted program in-person kickoff:
March - 8-10 week paid internship with a member firm:
June – August - NAIC-hosted monthly career development:
June – August
Where
Internships are held at participating alternative investment firms across the U.S. (either virtual, hybrid, or in-person at the discretion of each firm). Pre-internship and career development training sessions are held virtually with the exception of a fully funded kickoff event held in-person in Washington, DC in the spring.
About the Program
- Customized pre-internship alternative investments training that provides participants with an essential understanding of capital markets and introduces some of the skills needed for the internship
- 8-10 week paid internship at an alternative investment firm
- Monthly career development sessions led by senior executive women who will share their career journeys and help you navigate a career in alternative investments
Who Should Apply
Desired Attributes
- Demonstrated and proven leadership skills with experience managing competing priorities
- Curiosity in exploring an area of investment with a focus on understanding capital allocation, market trends, and private transactions
- Excellent communicator, both written and verbal
- Passionate about being a part of increased diversity and inclusion in a professional role
- Presents strong potential for data and analysis, research and spreadsheet skills
Application Process
- Complete application, inclusive of 2 short-answer questions
- Receive one-way video interview invitation (by invitation only)
- Receive phone screen invitation (by invitation only)
- Receive live video interview invitation with hiring committee (by invitation only)
- Receive an internship offer
2024 Paradigm Changers Internship Training
Paradigm Changers FAQ
What is the Paradigm Changers Internship Program?
The Paradigm Changers Internship program is a part of the NAIC Women in Alternatives initiative. The internship provides an opportunity for ethnically diverse college women to gain the skills, knowledge, and exposure needed to pursue a career in alternative investments (private equity, private debt, hedge funds, real estate, etc.).
The program accepts undergraduate and graduate students from a broad range of academic disciplines, including, but not limited to healthcare, technology, mathematics, computer science, law, business, and engineering, and pairs them with various NAIC member firms across the U.S (United States)., for an immersive hands-on experience in the world of alternative investments.
Who is NAIC? What does the organization do?
NAIC is the largest industry association for diverse-owned alternative investment firms. Through education, advocacy, and industry events, NAIC is focused on increasing the flow of capital to high-performing diverse investment managers often underutilized by institutional investors. Our members represent a broad spectrum of backgrounds and investment strategies.
Do I need experience in alternative investments to be an eligible candidate for the Paradigm Changers Internship Program?
No prior experience in alternative investments is required to be a Paradigm Changer intern! We provide comprehensive training to ensure you have all the skills and knowledge needed to excel during the internship.
What does the application process and timeline look like for the Paradigm Changers Internship Program?
NAIC will host a virtual information session on September 24 at 4:00pm. Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates. Once applications are open, students can apply directly through the NAIC website. Decisions will be made in early February.
How long is the internship?
The internship duration is set by the hosting firms and ranges from 8 to 10 weeks.
What kind of training will I receive during the pre-internship training?
Students receive a combination of technical and soft skills training. This includes an introduction to financial modeling, Microsoft Office fundamentals, networking, and professional development workshops.
What type of projects or tasks will I be working on during the internship?
The projects and tasks assigned to you will vary based on the needs of your host firm. Your responsibilities may include financial modeling, conducting due diligence, market research, data analysis, preparing presentations, and assisting with deal sourcing. Other tasks might include event planning and administrative support, all aimed at aligning with your firm’s goals.
What kind of alumni network or community does the Paradigm Changers Program offer?
Paradigm Changers alumni can stay connected with the National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC) through annual networking events, such as the Women in Alternatives Mixer and Midsummer VIP Reception held in New York City. Additionally, alumni may be invited to speak and participate in other events related to the Paradigm Changers Internship Program, providing further opportunities for professional growth and career development.
I am not eligible for the Paradigm Changers Internship Program. Are there other opportunities to get involved?
Yes! The National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC) offers additional opportunities through its Women in Alternatives initiative. If you are not eligible for the Paradigm Changers Internship, you might consider our other programs:
UP Fellowship: Designed for mid-career professionals, this program offers mentorship to ethnically diverse women with 7-12 years of experience who are advancing in their careers.
Beyond Program: This initiative provides training and support for women who are first-time fund managers, helping them launch their own alternative investment firms.
Who should I contact if I have more questions?
Email us at wia@naicpe.com if you have additional questions.
Attention NAIC and AIC Member Firms!
Are You Interested in Hosting a Paradigm Changers Intern?
NAIC and AIC (American Investment Council) member firms are
invited to be a part of changing the paradigm of alternative investments
recruitment by addressing the lack of diversity concerning ethnically diverse
women.
Host-Firm Requirements
- Host a full-time summer intern for 8-10 weeks, providing support and
mentorship to the selected intern - Compensate an intern at least $25/hour
- Pay a one-time summer program fee that covers the cost of intern
recruitment, matching, pre-training, and on-going professional
development
Past Host Firms
2024 Host Firm Applications Are Now Available
For additional information about the Paradigm Changers Internship Program, please contact us at wia@naicpe.com.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Tina McIntyre at tmcintyre@naicpe.com