Research Intern

Planned Systems International, Inc.•, Remote

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Planned Systems International (PSI) is an Enterprise IT services company who focuses on designing, building, securing, and operating cutting-edge software solutions that drive mission success and operational excellence for Federal Government organizations. PSI is currently seeking a motivated high school student interested in research, writing, and public speaking to complete a short-term internship focused on understanding Generation Z's perspectives on education and careers. The intern will conduct independent research on current trends influencing Gen Z's decisions regarding college education, trade schools, career paths, and workplace expectations. The internship will culminate in a written research paper and a professional presentation of findings to PSI management. This internship is designed to expose students to professional research methods, critical analysis, and executive-level communication while producing actionable insights that may help PSI better understand emerging workforce trends and future talent expectations. The intern will work under the guidance of a PSI mentor who will provide project direction, feedback, and periodic progress reviews throughout the internship.

Requirements

Current high school student (grades 10–12 preferred).
Strong academic performance.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Curious, self-motivated, and willing to learn.
Comfortable conducting interviews and speaking with professionals.
Familiarity with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and internet research tools.
Ability to work independently while meeting project deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Interest in business, economics, psychology, sociology, education, communications, or public policy.
Experience writing research papers or participating in debate, student government, or academic competitions.
Analytical thinking
Organization
Professional communication
Writing and editing
Attention to detail
Presentation skills
Initiative and intellectual curiosity

Responsibilities

Research current articles, studies, surveys, and reports regarding Generation Z workforce and education trends.
Investigate topics including: College education versus trade school preferences, Factors influencing educational decisions, Career goals and expectations of Generation Z, Workplace values, flexibility, compensation, and work-life balance, Employer expectations versus employee expectations.
Conduct interviews with selected students, recent graduates, educators, and/or young professionals to develop qualitative case studies.
Organize research findings and identify key themes and trends.
Analyze similarities and differences between published research and interview results.
Prepare a professional research paper summarizing findings, observations, and recommendations.
Develop a PowerPoint presentation highlighting major conclusions.
Present research findings to PSI managers and participate in a question-and-answer discussion.