Looking for high school internships can feel pretty hard, especially if you’ve faced a few rejections and feel like you’re not good enough.

I totally get it.

I felt the same way when I was in your shoes. Internships seemed confusing and out of reach.

But persisting and taking the plunge was one of the best decisions I ever made. It gave me the chance to explore fields like urban planning and reproductive science, experiences that broadened my perspective and shaped the direction of my future in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

High school internships can be a game-changer, and we got you with some tips to help you land that amazing first internship!

Embrace the Adventure

High school is your playground for exploration. It’s the perfect time to try out different interests without the pressure of long-term commitment. Think of internships as a buffet of experiences. Here were a few of mine:

• Politics with Young Democrats: Instead of just attending meetings, we were actively involved in policy changes, like adjusting graduation age regulations. It felt like being part of a real-life drama where we made a difference!
• Urban Planning with the Model Atlanta Regional Commission: Redesigning a cemetery into a green space was both a creative and practical challenge. It gave me a deep appreciation for how thoughtful design can enhance community well-being and urban aesthetics.
• Reproductive Science at Emory University: Revamping the curriculum to include comprehensive sex education was about more than just learning; it was about making a difference in how young people learn about critical issues. This experience highlighted the importance of inclusive and impactful education.

Each internship was a chapter in the book of my life, helping me discover what I’m passionate about. And guess what? You’re free to explore multiple fields and see what resonates with you.

Every new experience enriches your understanding of different professions and helps clarify what you might want to pursue in the future.

The Results of my High School Internships

Here’s a deeper dive into how each of the examples above unfolded:

• Politics with Young Democrats: We tackled real-world problems like policy reform and community outreach. I remember specifically working on a campaign for the House Representative of our district, and we helped her outline her policy plan and then implement it on a grassroots level.
• Urban Planning with the Model Atlanta Regional Commission: We started off by learning how the city of Atlanta was designed and then our final project was to submit a plan transforming an outdated cemetery into a green space for the local community. This required a mix of creative design thinking and practical problem-solving. It was a powerful reminder of how urban planning can significantly improve the quality of life for residents.
• Reproductive Science at Emory University: Collaborating on revamping educational materials for sex education was eye-opening. We aimed to create a curriculum that was both comprehensive and sensitive to diverse needs. This experience underscored the role of education in shaping informed and empowered communities.

These experiences didn’t just add to my resume; they provided invaluable insights into different fields and helped me understand what I’m passionate about. The skills I developed and the connections I made continue to influence my career path today.

Finding High School Internships: Where to Start

Ready to embark on your own internship adventure? Here are some tips to get you started:

• Network Like a Pro: Your network might be bigger than you think. Reach out to family, friends, teachers, and your guidance counselor. They might have leads on opportunities that aren’t widely advertised. Networking events, career fairs, and even social media platforms can be excellent places to make connections and make good first impressions.
• Research and Reach Out: Be proactive in your search. Look up companies or organizations you’re interested in and inquire about internship opportunities, even if they’re not currently advertised. Your initiative shows enthusiasm and can sometimes lead to unexpected openings.
• Use Online Resources: Websites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Indeed are excellent for finding internships. Platforms like Chegg Internships and Idealist are particularly useful for exploring opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Don’t forget to check out company websites and local job boards, too.
• Be Bold: Apply for positions even if they seem competitive. Sometimes, the only barrier is taking the first step. I secured a paid internship thanks to a friend’s encouragement. Your enthusiasm and willingness to take risks can set you apart from other candidates.

Acing the Application

Once you find an internship that excites you, try to find a way to make your application stand out:

Craft a Compelling Resume

Your resume is your first impression—make it count. Here’s how to create one that grabs attention:

• Focus on Relevant Skills: Tailor your resume to the job, emphasizing skills and achievements that match the role. Use action verbs like “led” or “developed,” and quantify results where possible (e.g., “Boosted team productivity by 20% through streamlined workflows”).
• Keep It Clear: Stick to one page unless absolutely necessary, and organize information logically. List work and education in reverse chronological order.
• Make Education Shine: Include your school, degree, major, and graduation date. Add coursework, honors, or study abroad experiences if relevant.
• Highlight Impactful Experience: Show results, not just responsibilities. For example:
  Content Writer Intern
  • Wrote and optimized 10+ blog posts, increasing website traffic by 30%.
  • Conducted SEO research to improve content visibility.
• Add Leadership & Activities: Mention meaningful roles in clubs, organizations, or volunteer work that showcase teamwork, leadership, or problem-solving skills.
• Spotlight Your Skills: Create a skills section for technical abilities or languages (e.g., “Python: 4 years, Fluent in Mandarin”).
• Stay Professional: Use simple, readable fonts, 10–12pt size, and clear margins. Avoid flashy graphics.
• Proofread Thoroughly: Review for typos and clarity, and get feedback from a trusted peer.

A polished, tailored resume shows employers why you’re the right fit and sets you apart from the competition.

Write a Compelling Cover Letter

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself, share your story, and explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Here’s how to keep it personal and impactful:

1. Start Strong
   Skip generic openings. Personalize your introduction to show enthusiasm and effort.
   Example:
   “When I saw the posting for [Position] at [Company], I was excited to apply. This role aligns with my passion for [specific interest] and my experience in [specific achievement].”
2. Show Your Value
   Focus on how your skills and experiences address the company’s needs. Use specific examples to highlight results.
   Example:
   “As [Previous Role], I developed [specific skill], which helped me achieve [specific result]. I’m eager to bring this expertise to [Company] to [specific contribution].”
3. Be Yourself
   Write in a conversational tone while aligning with the company’s values. Share a personal connection or insight about their mission.
   Example:
   “What excites me most about [Company] is [specific value or project]. Seeing how you [specific example] inspires me, and I’m eager to contribute to this work.”
4. End Confidently
   Close with a clear and polite call to action.
   Example:
   “I’d love the chance to discuss how my skills align with [Company’s] goals. Thank you for considering my application—I look forward to contributing to your team.”

Example Cover Letter

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I was excited to see your posting for [Position] at [Company]. This opportunity aligns with my passion for [specific interest] and my experience in [specific achievement].

In my role as [Previous Role], I [specific accomplishment], which taught me [specific skill]. For instance, when I [specific anecdote], I achieved [specific result]. These experiences have prepared me to tackle challenges at [Company] and make meaningful contributions.

What excites me most about [Company] is [specific value or project]. I admire how you [specific example] and would love to bring my [specific skill or quality] to continue this work.

Thank you for considering my application. I’d welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background aligns with your goals.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

A compelling cover letter is about connecting your story to the company’s mission. Make it personal, relevant, and concise to stand out.

Build a Professional Digital Presence

Building a strong online presence goes beyond having a LinkedIn profile—it’s about creating a professional identity that showcases your strengths and interests. Here’s how to stand out:

1. Polish Your LinkedIn

• Professional Photo: Use a clear, high-quality image with appropriate attire.
• Headline: Avoid generic titles like “Student at [University].” Highlight your skills or goals (e.g., “Data Analyst | Passionate About Sustainability”).
• Summary: Tell your story—what you’ve done, what you’re passionate about, and what you’re looking for next.
• Skills and Endorsements: Highlight your abilities and request recommendations to build credibility.

2. Showcase Your Work

Start a blog or portfolio to display your creativity and expertise. Platforms like WordPress or Behance work well. Include your resume and make your projects easy to navigate, explaining your role and the purpose behind them.

3. Leverage Social Media

Use platforms like Twitter and Instagram to reflect your professional interests:

• Share relevant articles, projects, or industry insights.
• Keep your content professional and aligned with your personal brand.

4. Clean Up Your Digital Footprint

• Google Yourself: Remove any unflattering content.
• Privacy Settings: Ensure personal content is visible only to trusted connections.
• Be Mindful: Avoid posting overly personal or controversial content.

5. Keep It Current

Regularly update your profiles with new achievements, skills, and projects. Stay active by engaging with your network and sharing relevant industry news.

Your online presence is an extension of your professional self. When done right, it can help you stand out, connect with opportunities, and showcase your potential to employers.

Prepare for Interviews

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but preparation sets you apart. Here’s how to ace it:

1. Do Your Research
   Learn the company’s mission, values, products, and recent news. Understand the role and industry, and research your interviewer if possible to build rapport.
2. Practice Common Questions
   Prepare answers for behavioral, company-specific, and career goal questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
3. Highlight Relevant Experiences
   Draw from academic projects, volunteer work, or part-time jobs to showcase transferable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.
4. Ask Thoughtful Questions
   Show interest by asking about mentorship opportunities, projects you’ll work on, or company culture.
5. Be Ready to Learn
   Share examples of quickly picking up new skills or tools, and emphasize your eagerness to grow.
6. Be Professional and Authentic
   Test tech for virtual interviews or plan your route for in-person ones. Let your personality shine while maintaining professionalism.
7. Follow Up
   Send a thank-you email reiterating your excitement and referencing the conversation.

With preparation, confidence, and authenticity, you’ll stand out as a strong candidate.

Enjoy the Journey

High school internships aren’t just about stacking up experience—they’re an opportunity to dive into what excites you, learn something new, and grow in ways you never expected. Allie Dodson from XQ Institute put it perfectly: “Pursue the internships that inspire you, and where these do not exist, innovate them.” This is your chance to get out there and see what sparks your interest.

There is no better time than high school to explore and experiment, and internships are a fantastic way to do just that. Each one is a stepping stone that can help you uncover what drives you and shapes your dreams. So, take a leap—try out different fields and find what truly lights you up. Who knows where it might lead? ✨🚀

Got an internship story or advice to share? Or maybe you’re curious about where to start? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear about your journey and swap ideas with you! Also, if you need any help with a resume review or have any questions, feel free to contact me directly! I would love to do what I can.