Purpose of This Guide
The goal of this guide is to help high school students (ages 14–18) understand what internships are, why they might be important, and how to decide if an internship is right for them. By the end, you’ll know how internships can help you explore careers, build skills, and prepare for college or future jobs.
What is an Internship?
An internship is a short-term work experience where you learn what it’s like to have a job in a specific field. Internships often give you:
Real-world experience outside of school.
Skills you can use in future jobs.
A chance to see if a career is right for you.
Connections with professionals who can guide and mentor you.
Why Consider an Internship in High School?
Explore Careers Early – Try out fields like technology, healthcare, business, or the arts.
Stand Out on College Applications – Colleges love to see that you’ve taken initiative.
Gain Skills – Communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.
Build Your Resume – You’ll already have work experience before college.
Confidence – Learning in real-world settings can boost your independence.
When Should You Do an Internship?
Summer is the best time (no school distractions).
Some students start as early as sophomore or junior year.
Even a few weeks of experience can make a difference.
How to Get an Internship: Step-by-Step Roadmap
Think About Your Interests
What subjects or hobbies do you enjoy? (science, art, coding, writing, etc.)
Use these to guide your search.
Search for Opportunities
Ask teachers, school counselors, or family friends.
Check community centers, local businesses, hospitals, or universities.
Look online (internship websites or company career pages).
Prepare a Resume
Include school projects, volunteer work, or clubs if you don’t have job experience.
Keep it clear and simple.
Apply & Reach Out
Send a short, polite email or fill out an application.
Explain why you’re interested and what you hope to learn.
Get Ready for Interviews
Practice answering basic questions like: “Why do you want this internship?”
Show enthusiasm and curiosity.
Make the Most of Your Internship
Be on time, ask questions, and take notes.
Treat it seriously — this could lead to future opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting until senior year when it’s harder to balance school and college applications.
Only looking at “big name” companies — smaller local businesses can give amazing experiences.
Not following up after applying.
Forgetting that volunteering can also count as experience if paid internships aren’t available.
What You Will Learn from This Guide
By now, you should understand:
What an internship is and why it can be valuable in high school.
The benefits of doing one early.
When the best time is to get an internship.
A clear roadmap on how to find, apply for, and succeed in an internship.
Common mistakes to avoid so you don’t miss out.
Need More Help?
If you want more advice about finding the right internship, preparing a resume, or exploring different careers, you can use our AI Bot! Just go to the homepage, open the Bot, and ask your questions. It’s available 24/7 to guide you.
The goal of this guide is to help high school students (ages 14–18) understand what internships are, why they might be important, and how to decide if an internship is right for them. By the end, you’ll know how internships can help you explore careers, build skills, and prepare for college or future jobs.
What is an Internship?
An internship is a short-term work experience where you learn what it’s like to have a job in a specific field. Internships often give you:
Real-world experience outside of school.
Skills you can use in future jobs.
A chance to see if a career is right for you.
Connections with professionals who can guide and mentor you.
Why Consider an Internship in High School?
Explore Careers Early – Try out fields like technology, healthcare, business, or the arts.
Stand Out on College Applications – Colleges love to see that you’ve taken initiative.
Gain Skills – Communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.
Build Your Resume – You’ll already have work experience before college.
Confidence – Learning in real-world settings can boost your independence.
When Should You Do an Internship?
Summer is the best time (no school distractions).
Some students start as early as sophomore or junior year.
Even a few weeks of experience can make a difference.
How to Get an Internship: Step-by-Step Roadmap
Think About Your Interests
What subjects or hobbies do you enjoy? (science, art, coding, writing, etc.)
Use these to guide your search.
Search for Opportunities
Ask teachers, school counselors, or family friends.
Check community centers, local businesses, hospitals, or universities.
Look online (internship websites or company career pages).
Prepare a Resume
Include school projects, volunteer work, or clubs if you don’t have job experience.
Keep it clear and simple.
Apply & Reach Out
Send a short, polite email or fill out an application.
Explain why you’re interested and what you hope to learn.
Get Ready for Interviews
Practice answering basic questions like: “Why do you want this internship?”
Show enthusiasm and curiosity.
Make the Most of Your Internship
Be on time, ask questions, and take notes.
Treat it seriously — this could lead to future opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting until senior year when it’s harder to balance school and college applications.
Only looking at “big name” companies — smaller local businesses can give amazing experiences.
Not following up after applying.
Forgetting that volunteering can also count as experience if paid internships aren’t available.
What You Will Learn from This Guide
By now, you should understand:
What an internship is and why it can be valuable in high school.
The benefits of doing one early.
When the best time is to get an internship.
A clear roadmap on how to find, apply for, and succeed in an internship.
Common mistakes to avoid so you don’t miss out.
Need More Help?
If you want more advice about finding the right internship, preparing a resume, or exploring different careers, you can use our AI Bot! Just go to the homepage, open the Bot, and ask your questions. It’s available 24/7 to guide you.