So, you’re great at Instagram Reels, have a knack for editing videos, and can write captions that actually get likes. Believe it or not, those skills aren’t just for fun—they’re a launchpad to something way bigger: high school internships.
These days, internships aren’t just for college students. More and more companies are opening doors for high schoolers. From digital marketing to finance, you can explore careers, build confidence, and yes—get some pretty cool experience to flex on your college apps.
Why High School Internships Matter
High school internships let you explore what you like (and don’t like) before locking into a major or career path. According to Internships.com, students who intern during high school are more likely to get hired earlier and earn higher wages in the future. That’s major.
Plus, some internships come with perks like stipends, travel, and access to industry pros. Imagine working on real projects at places like NASA—yep, the NASA High School Internship program is a thing—and using what you learn to fuel your next big idea.
Real Opportunities, Real Experience
Internships for high school students are popping up in all kinds of industries:
- Paid internships for high school students: These are becoming more common, especially in tech and nonprofits.
- Law internships for high school students: Perfect if you’ve ever watched a courtroom drama and thought, “I could do that.”
- Finance and business roles: Yes, even Wall Street is starting to look at Gen Z talent.
ETC Foundation’s blog on how to find the right internship gives more guidance if you’re ready to dive deeper. And while you’re planning your future, check out our college application guide to stay one step ahead.
Real Opportunities, Real Experience
Start with what you already enjoy. If you’re into gaming, media, science, or art—search for internships in those fields.
Then:
- Look at internship databases like Handshake, Indeed, and Chegg Internships.
- Talk to your guidance counselor or career coach.
- Use LinkedIn and don’t be afraid to send a well-written cold email. (Yep, it works!)
And don’t worry if you don’t get your dream role on the first try. ETC mentors remind students all the time—growth happens in the process.
What ETC Foundation Is Doing
We believe early career exposure builds confidence. That’s why we host workshops on networking, resume building, and interview tips. If you’re applying to internships and need support, our scholarship program and mentorships are designed to help you prepare.
And for more on managing your goals and routine, check out our blog A Week in the Life of a Motivated Teen.
FAQs to help you further:
FAQs to help you further:
How to get internships in high school? Start with school resources, online databases, and outreach. Build a resume and practice your pitch.
How to cold email for an internship in high school? Be polite, brief, and specific. Introduce yourself, mention your interest, and ask for a chance to learn or shadow.
Does high school matter for finance internships (WSO)? Yes! Early internships, solid grades, and networking give you a head start in competitive finance careers.
How to find internships for high school students? Use websites like Internships.com, ask teachers, or search local businesses on LinkedIn.Top 33 Internships for High School Students in 2025
Final Thoughts
High school internships aren’t just resume boosters. They’re your first step toward figuring out who you are and where you want to go. So take that social media savvy or coding hobby and go turn it into something real.
Because you don’t need to wait to “grow up” to start your career—you’re already in it.
