How do I ask for a clarification on an offer's salary?

Question

I am currently an intern at a software development company, and I have been offered a position as a return intern for the summer. I'm currently a student in a five year undergraduate/graduate plan, and I graduate with my undergraduate degree this May. As such, it is expected to get a salary increase as I become a graduate intern. I was offered a small increase in my hourly wage, from $23 to $25, but others I've known in the past who've gone from undergraduate to graduate have had as much as an increase from $20 to $26. This was three years ago, and the average hourly salary for my position among multiple companies is currently $35.

This leads me to think that maybe I have not been classified as a graduate student intern, but the raise is simply because it's my second year as an intern with the company. How do I ask for clarification on that without seeming like I'm just wanting more money?

Answer 1

But it seems you do want more money. And there's nothing wrong with that. Have an open and candid conversation with you boss. Evaluate if you have better options outside or if it's worth the price to stay.

Some sample phrasing for you to consider:

I really appreciate the offer, but I was expecting something else because... (showcase your reasons, whatever they are)

Answer 2

There's nothing wrong with asking directly for more money. After all, an offer is just a step in a negotiation. Now, I understand that you don't want to make them think that it's your top priority, so I would suggest that you contact HR department via email. This way, you can get them to read your explanation and prevent suspicion on their part before they can reply (an advantage that you would not have if, for example, you were to have this conversation on the phone).

I would go with something like: "I appreciate the opportunity to return to this company. I learned a lot in my previous internship and I look forward to work with you again. I will major this may and want to consider all my options for professional growth. I have an interest to build my career in your company, and reviewing the details of the offer, I'm concerned that maybe I wasn't considered a graduate intern yet. Can you clarify this for me?"

This expresses your eagerness to re-enter the company and makes it the primary topic while stating your question clearly.