Can I Get Internships as a Freshman in High School?

You are a 14-year-old high school freshman, and you turn 15 in the summer. Your question revolves around whether it's possible for a teenager to obtain internships. To answer this, we need to consider the type of internship, your age, the organization's willingness to offer internships, and your personal objectives.

Objective and Duration of the Internship

The key to obtaining an internship at any age, including high school, is understanding your objectives and the duration of the internship. Even as a budding teen, there are steps you can take to lay the groundwork for future opportunities. Identify the type of organizations that align with your interests and approach them with a genuine interest in learning and growing.

Why Not at Your Age?

It would be reasonable to question why a 15-year-old should not be interested in earning some money. Teenagers often dream of financial independence and hands-on experiences that define their professional journey. While the idea may seem unrealistic given current age restrictions, taking steps to network and gain experience early on can set the foundation for future opportunities.

Interest and Networking

Consider what interests you most: are you fascinated by computer science, automotive engineering, or hair styling? Once you have a clear idea of your interests, look for job opportunities that align with them. Talking to a counselor can provide insights into internships or other opportunities that might be a good fit. Collier School and similar institutions can offer practical advice and mentorship, helping you to explore different careers.

Beyond High School

The focus should eventually shift to high school graduation. At that point, your main objective should be to excel in your studies, as well as gain practical experience through part-time jobs or internships that match your skill set. My experience in Silicon Valley, having interned with various high-tech companies, can offer some valuable insights.

Gaining Real Experience

A large company that sees beyond the short-term might offer internships to highly qualified college students nearing graduation from prestigious universities. These companies often hope these young, intelligent individuals will choose to work for them post-graduation. However, the reality can be quite different.

During such internships, the work can be minimal, and the environment may not be as fulfilling as one might expect. The experience can be morale-sapping, and many interns feel disillusioned by the mismanagement and lack of real impact.

Waiting for Graduation

Instead of rushing into internships as a high school student, focus on academic success and finding jobs that match your skills. For example, delivering newspapers, washing dishes, or digging ditches can all be meaningful experiences. When I was young, I found that manual labor, like operating a backhoe, was rewarding. Even though the pay was low, the sense of accomplishment and tangible impact was fulfilling.

Real Work and Impact

Contrastingly, the internship experience often involves minimal real work. In fact, it might be productive for only about 4 hours out of the 8-hour workday, leaving plenty of time for idle work. It’s essential to choose opportunities where you can make a genuine contribution and feel a sense of achievement.

Networking Matter

Start networking and making connections with adults who have interesting jobs. Try to build relationships with them, as these connections can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Use social media, participate in industry events, and engage in discussions with professionals in your field of interest.

Aiming for the Future

Aim for quality internships as a high schooler, even if they are few and far between. Attend career fairs, intern with smaller, more regional businesses, or seek out opportunities in your local community. These experiences can provide a taste of professional life, help strengthen your skills, and open doors for future opportunities.

Conclusion

While it may be challenging to find internships in a high school setting, taking steps to build a strong foundation in terms of skills, interests, and networking can greatly enhance your chances of finding meaningful work opportunities after you graduate. Don't rush into anything; take your time, and focus on what truly interests you.