11 Best Summer Internships for High School Students
Securing a summer internship during high school can be a transformative experience, offering young students a taste of the professional world and a chance to explore their passions and interests. These valuable opportunities not only provide a glimpse into potential career paths but also equip students with crucial skills and experiences that can set them apart in the future.
High school students, and especially graduating seniors, should take advantage of all the excellent opportunities provided to them in their chosen fields.
Check out these 11 incredible summer internship opportunities explicitly geared toward high school students, from engineering and STEM to business and the arts.
1. The Smith Summer Science and Engineering Program
The Smith Summer Science and Engineering Program offers an exciting opportunity for high school students with a passion for science and engineering. Hosted by Smith College, this program is a dynamic and immersive experience that allows participants to explore various STEM fields through hands-on research projects, laboratory work, and interactive workshops. It's a valuable opportunity for young minds to dive deep into the world of science and engineering, gaining insights into cutting-edge research and fostering their scientific curiosity.
During the Smith Summer Science and Engineering Program, students work closely with experienced faculty members and mentors on research projects that align with their interests. This hands-on experience not only enhances their knowledge but also provides a taste of what it's like to work as a scientist or engineer. Beyond research, participants also engage in a vibrant academic community, attend lectures and seminars, and connect with like-minded peers.
2. Microsoft High School Discovery Program
Students involved in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are welcome to apply to the Microsoft High School Discovery Program. This 4-week experience allows students to delve further into computer science and programming, focusing on STEM.
This summer internship is perfect for incoming college freshmen pursuing a degree in either science or technology. It is onsite in Redmond, WA and is paid for its full time work. Students will gain on-the-job experience in challenging yet achievable projects, working closely with Microsoft’s top minds.
3. Kaiser Permanente Summer Youth Employment Program
As one of the leading healthcare organizations in the United States, Kaiser Permanente offers a comprehensive summer internship program designed to immerse young individuals in the world of healthcare and provide them with hands-on experiences. This program not only exposes students to various healthcare careers but also instills in them a sense of responsibility and compassion for patient care.
During their time in the Kaiser Permanente Summer Youth Employment Program, high school students have the chance to work alongside healthcare professionals, gaining insights into medical practices, administration, and patient interaction. They can shadow doctors, nurses, and other staff, witnessing firsthand the day-to-day operations of a healthcare facility. Additionally, participants often engage in special projects and educational activities that further enhance their understanding of the medical field.
4. Johns Hopkins CARES Summer Program
Johns Hopkins is one of the most well-respected names in medicine. Every summer, they host a variety of internship opportunities for underrepresented high school juniors and seniors who are dedicated to pursuing careers in science, public health, and treatment. These programs focus on a variety of STEM and health-related fields. The programs are wide-ranging and filled with unique experiences. Johns Hopkins even offers a symposium for high school students participating in the CARES program.
5. Geosciences Bridge Program
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) offers top-notch science programs in several major fields. You get that and so much more with UMES's Geoscience Bridge Program. This program provides a six-week, paid internship for graduating high school students who plan to pursue careers in geosciences.
The program allows students to experience lectures, hands-on activities, and field trips while gaining credit for two college courses. There is a focus on admitting students from underprivileged groups to help achieve diversity in the field.
6. NASA High School Internship
NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center is a wonderful opportunity for any high school student over 16. Students are engaged in either research or other experiential learning under the guidance of a mentor at a NASA installation.
The internships occur across four Maryland, Virginia, New York, and West Virginia campuses. NASA’s summer internships are designed to engage students interested in STEM-related scientific fields. In some cases, stipends are available.
7. The Intern Group International Internships
If you want to visit another country and immerse yourself in a new culture, The Intern Group International Internship is the best way to do it. The Intern Group accepts applications from students 18 and older who want to experience an internship abroad in almost every imaginable field. From business, finance, and marketing to engineering, architecture, and law, the culturally-driven programs focus on educational growth.
Students are taken to destinations across Europe, Asia, Australia, Latin America, Africa, the United States, and Canada. With new perspectives come new insights that change the world.
8. Smithsonian Summer Internship
The Smithsonian offers various summer internships for high school students interested in every field. Students will learn self-expression leadership skills and prepare for their future in college and beyond.
The work for Smithsonian can cover a range of topics, from archiving data to helping with marketing and social media. Some options also focus on specific groups, like the Young Ambassadors program designed for latino students. This opportunity also allows students to explore the Smithsonian’s museum spaces in a safe, educational environment.
9. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
Students passionate about fisheries science should apply for this summer program for high school students. Sponsored by the American Fisheries Society, this excellent opportunity matches Hutton Scholars with a fisheries professional in their local area, including Puerto Rico.
Students gain real, hands-on fisheries science experience in a freshwater and/or marine setting and receive a $3,000 stipend for their work. They will also be able to attend the Hutton Scholars Summit at no cost.
10. The Met Summer High School Internship
If you are a high school junior or senior living in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, you are encouraged to apply for the MET Summer High School Internship. The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers paid summer internships to students dedicated to crafting their artistic skills. Through this engaging program, students can connect with professionals in the creative world's various facets. Students are paid a stipend while networking with peers and gaining lifelong skills along the way.
11. The Library of Congress Internship
The Library of Congress Internship stands as a prestigious opportunity for high school students who are passionate about history, culture, and the preservation of knowledge. Located in Washington, D.C., the Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, housing an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, and historical documents. The internship program is an invaluable experience for young scholars, offering them a chance to delve into the vast treasures of human history and contribute to the library's mission of preserving and sharing these resources.
Finding the Right Internship for You
Whether you are invested in the creative process and want to pursue a career in the arts or driven by the science surrounding us all, there is a place for your passions. You have a future out there, but it comes down to what you want and where you believe your path lies.
So don’t wait for your career to begin after college; start now, and you will be surprised where it takes you! If you need help preparing applications or choosing the right program for you, NSHSS is here to help.