Internships can provide high school students with valuable hands-on experience, allowing them to explore potential career paths and develop essential skills. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of internships for high school students and explore some top internship opportunities available across various industries.

Benefits of Internships for High School Students

Participating in an internship during high school can offer numerous benefits, including:

  • Exposure to potential career paths and industries
  • Development of professional and interpersonal skills
  • Networking opportunities and connections with professionals
  • Enhanced college applications and resumes
  • Increased confidence and self-awareness

Top Internship Opportunities for High School Students

Here are some top internship opportunities available for high school students across a range of industries:

1. Microsoft High School Internship Program

Microsoft offers a paid summer internship program for high school students interested in technology, computer science, or engineering. Interns work on real-world projects, attend workshops, and participate in mentoring programs. This internship provides valuable experience and exposure to the tech industry.

Website: https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/ushighschoolinternship

2. NASA High School Internship Program

NASA provides high school students with the opportunity to work on projects related to space exploration, aeronautics, or science. Interns work alongside experienced professionals and gain firsthand experience in their chosen field. This internship is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).

Website: https://intern.nasa.gov/

3. Bank of America Student Leaders Program

The Bank of America Student Leaders Program offers paid summer internships for high school students with non-profit organizations. This program aims to develop leadership skills and promote civic engagement. In addition to the internship, students attend a week-long leadership summit in Washington, D.C.

Website: https://about.bankofamerica.com/en/making-an-impact/student-leaders

4. Smithsonian Institution High School Internships

The Smithsonian Institution offers a variety of internship opportunities for high school students interested in art, history, science, or culture. Interns work with museum professionals, researchers, and educators to gain hands-on experience and contribute to ongoing projects.

Website: https://www.smithsonianofi.com/internship-opportunities/

5. Google Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI)

Google’s Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI) is a three-week summer program for high school seniors interested in computer science. Although not a traditional internship, students participate in hands-on coding projects, learn about industry tools, and connect with Google professionals. The program is designed to prepare students for college and future careers in computer science.

Website: https://buildyourfuture.withgoogle.com/programs/computer-science-summer-institute/

6. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Summer Internship Program

The NIH Summer Internship Program offers high school students the opportunity to work on biomedical research projects alongside leading scientists. This program is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare, research, or life sciences.

Website: https://www.training.nih.gov/programs/sip

7. The New York Times Summer Internship Program

The New York Times offers a summer internship program for high school students interested in journalism, media, and communications. Interns work in various departments, including editorial, marketing, and technology, and gain hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of media.

Website: https://www.nytco.com/careers/internships/

8. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Internships

The EPA offers internships for high school students interested in environmental science, policy, or engineering. Interns work on projects related to environmental protection, sustainability, and public health, gaining valuable experience and exposure to the field.

Website: https://www.epa.gov/careers/internships

9. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Internships

The CDC offers internship opportunities for high school students interested in public health, epidemiology, or biomedical research. Interns work on projects related to disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency preparedness, providing valuable experience in the public health sector.

Website: https://www.cdc.gov/fellowships/short-term/student-internships.html

10. The Art Institute of Chicago Internships

The Art Institute of Chicago offers paid summer internships for high school students interested in art, museum studies, or art history. Interns work with museum professionals on projects related to exhibitions, collections, or education, gaining valuable insights into the world of art and museums.

Website: https://www.artic.edu/internships

Conclusion

Internships can be an invaluable experience for high school students, providing exposure to potential career paths, hands-on experience, and networking opportunities. By pursuing internships in your areas of interest, you can gain a better understanding of your future career options, develop essential skills, and enhance your college applications and resumes. Explore the internship opportunities listed above or search for additional options within your local community or preferred industry to find the perfect fit for your interests and goals.