Lori Meadows
High school internships are a great way to gain work experience, develop practical skills, and understand workplace dynamics. They can help students explore and deepen their interests and values, and showcase their strengths and passions to colleges and universities. While internships are not required for college applications, they can set applicants apart from their peers. High school students can find internships through their network, including friends and family, or through their high school guidance counselors, who are often contacted by businesses advertising internship opportunities. Students can also search for internships online, using search engines or sites like Google and Yelp, or by visiting the websites of organizations they are interested in.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Internship type | Paid or unpaid |
| Internship duration | Summer, semester, or school year |
| Internship purpose | Gain work experience, develop an understanding of a field, build a professional network, enhance college applications, and clarify academic interests |
| Internship search method | Utilize personal connections, search engines, or school opportunities |
| Interview process | Prepare a resume, arrive early, showcase enthusiasm, ask thoughtful questions, and follow up |
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What You'll Learn
Networking
To get your name out there, start by talking to your teachers, friends, family, coaches, and other members of your community. Ask them about potential internship opportunities and whether they know of any companies or organizations that offer internships. They may also be able to put you in touch with people they know who could help you. Networking is all about building relationships and leveraging your connections, so don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help.
You can also attend networking events, where you can meet professionals in your field of interest and learn about internship opportunities. Make sure to bring copies of your resume to these events and be prepared to talk about your skills and interests.
Another way to network is to utilize your social media presence. Engage with companies and organizations you're interested in on platforms like LinkedIn, and don't be afraid to reach out directly to businesses in your community or online network. You can also search for internships on job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn, which often have filters to help you find opportunities specifically for high school students.
Start your internship search early, as many internships for high school students have application deadlines as early as January or February.
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Application requirements
Academic Requirements
High school internships often require a strong academic record and high achievement. While specific GPA requirements may vary, maintaining good grades is essential. Some internships may also require transcripts to be submitted as part of the application process.
Application Materials
Many internships require a formal application process, which can include submitting transcripts, writing essays or statements of purpose, and obtaining letters of recommendation. A resume or CV highlighting relevant skills and experiences may also be necessary. While not always required, a well-written cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and showcase additional skills and experiences.
Interest and Motivation
Demonstrating a genuine interest in the field or industry and the specific internship opportunity is crucial. Internships are often competitive, and showing motivation and enthusiasm can enhance your application. Consider why you want to pursue this internship and how it aligns with your interests and future goals.
Availability and Commitment
In your application, be clear about your availability and commitment to the internship. Some internships may have specific duration requirements, such as the six-week internships offered by the Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI), Cornell University, and the USDA. Others may be more flexible with timing but still require a consistent commitment throughout the program.
Networking and Initiative
Finding internship opportunities may require networking and initiative. Reach out to your school counselors, teachers, or mentors who may have connections or knowledge of internship programs. Don't be afraid to ask around and explore opportunities beyond your school. Showing persistence and a proactive attitude can increase your chances of securing an internship.
Field-Specific Requirements
Certain internships, especially in specialized fields, may have unique requirements. For example, the NASA High School Internship in research and experiential learning may have specific requirements for students interested in STEM. Ensure you carefully review the requirements for internships in your desired field.
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Interview preparation
Internships are a great opportunity for high school students to gain hands-on, short-term work experience in a field they might be interested in pursuing. It is a chance to build practical skills, understand workplace dynamics, and develop valuable connections.
- Research the company and the position: Understand the company's values, culture, and demands of the job. Browse through their website and social media pages. This shows your interest and commitment to the interviewer.
- Revisit the job description: Refresh your memory on the required tasks and skills, and prepare answers to potential interview questions. For example, if the job description mentions "working well in a team", be ready to provide an example of how you have successfully worked in a team and handled conflicts.
- Prepare your answers: Research popular interview questions and prepare your responses. This will help with nerves and ensure you can showcase your passion and skills effectively.
- Ask questions: Interviewers often expect candidates to ask questions at the end of the interview. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, company culture, or specific aspects of the job. This demonstrates your interest and curiosity.
- Dress professionally: First impressions matter. Dress as if you are starting your first day at the company. Choose professional attire that aligns with the company's dress code and culture.
- Follow up with a thank-you email: After the interview, send a polite email to the interviewer, thanking them for their time. Include something that resonated with you during the interview, such as the interviewer's experience with the company or the positive work environment.
Remember, internships are a great way to explore your interests and gain valuable experience. Be open to learning, ask questions, and make the most of this opportunity to enhance your social and communication skills and network.
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Online searches
Online Platforms
Several online platforms cater specifically to internship listings. These include:
- StandOutSearch: A free database containing internships, research opportunities, and summer programs tailored specifically for high school students.
- Internshipprograms.com: Allows you to search for internships by employer, field, date, and location.
- GoAbroad.com: Profiles opportunities in different countries.
- Idealist: Allows you to search for internships at non-profit organizations.
- Job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn: These sites often have sections dedicated to internship listings, and you can filter your search to include only those positions that accept applications from high school students.
Search Strategies
When conducting online searches, consider the following strategies:
- Search Engines: Use a general search engine to look for internships by including specific terms like "internships for high school students near me" or "non-profit organizations in [your area]." The latter search query will yield a list of organizations that you can then explore further for potential internship opportunities.
- School and Local Libraries: School and local libraries frequently advertise career opportunities, including internships and volunteer positions, so be sure to check their websites or bulletin boards.
- School Databases: Your school's database can be a valuable resource for finding internships. Many high schools offer work-based learning programs, and your school database may have information on internship listings.
- Organization Websites: Once you've identified organizations or businesses in your area of interest, visit their websites to see if they offer internship programs.
Additional Tips
- Network: Talk to your friends, family, and guidance counsellor about internship opportunities. They may have connections or know of positions that aren't widely advertised.
- Be Prepared: Have a polished resume ready to go so that you can quickly apply when opportunities arise.
- Be Creative: If you can't find a formal internship program, consider creating your own internship or research project. Reach out to local businesses or entrepreneurs in your field of interest and propose a project that will allow you to gain relevant experience.
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Benefits of internships
High school internships are a great way to gain experience and skills that will benefit students in their future careers. While extracurricular activities and part-time or full-time jobs can be enriching, internships offer a unique perspective and specialised experience that other activities may not provide.
Gaining Work Experience
Internships provide high school students with the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience and build practical skills in their desired field. This experience can help students understand workplace dynamics and gain insight into whether a particular career path aligns with their interests and strengths.
Building a Professional Network
Internships allow students to make connections and build relationships with professionals in their industry of interest. These connections can lead to future mentorship and career opportunities. Internships also enable students to gain strong letters of recommendation, which can enhance their college and job applications.
Developing Foundational Skills
Internships are designed to provide students with foundational work skills and knowledge, allowing them to learn from professionals and quickly build upon their skillset. This includes learning professional behaviour, such as how to dress and behave in a work environment, as well as gaining industry-specific skills through hands-on practice or shadowing professionals.
Exploring Career Options
High school internships offer students the chance to explore different industries and career paths. By trying out short-term internships, students can discover their interests and strengths, and make more informed decisions about their future plans.
Standing Out as a Candidate
Experience gained through internships can make a student's college and job applications more competitive. It demonstrates dedication, initiative, and commitment to learning. Additionally, internships can help students develop soft skills, such as communication and problem-solving, which are highly valued by employers and admissions committees.
Overall, internships offer high school students a valuable opportunity to gain experience, build skills, and make connections that can benefit their future careers and educational pursuits.
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Frequently asked questions
High school students can find internships by networking with friends and family, and by asking their high school guidance counsellors about internship opportunities. They can also use search engines to search for internships in their area.
Some examples of internships for high school students include the Adler Planetarium Teen Internship Program, NASA High School Internships, the Bank of America Student Leader Program, and the Smithsonian Internships.
Internships allow high school students to gain work experience, develop a better understanding of a field, clarify their academic interests, network with professionals, and get strong letters of recommendation.
High school students applying for internships should prepare an elevator pitch and practice it with friends and family. They should also have a resume and cover letter ready for each position they apply to.
High school students can start looking for internships at any time, but it is important to note that internships for high school students are relatively rare, and most high school applicants do not have internships.
