How to Get an Internship in High School: K12’s Guide to Early Career Experience

Internships are often associated with college students eager to gain experience before launching their careers. But did you know high school students can also explore career paths and gain valuable professional experience through internships? Early hands-on opportunities help build practical skills, uncover interests, and create connections that can shape future success.

Here at K12, we aim to guide students and their families in every step of their educational journey. Whether you’re curious about how to find internships in high school, the benefits of internships, or where to start, this blog can help.

How does an internship work?

An internship is a short-term, hands-on experience that allows students to work alongside professionals in a specific field. These experiences offer a glimpse into potential career paths and the opportunity to develop real-world skills.

Can you get an internship in high school? Absolutely! High school internships are a fantastic opportunity to explore interests, build résumés, and prepare for the future. Some internships are paid, while others offer academic credit, mentorship, or networking opportunities instead.

Internships come in many forms. They may last a few weeks during the summer or stretch out part-time during the school year. Their flexibility allows students to balance internships with school and other commitments.

Advantages of High School Internships

High school internships provide valuable experiences that benefit students personally and professionally. Here’s how they can make a difference:

• Skill development: Learn practical workplace skills like time management, teamwork, and communication.
• Career exploration: Get firsthand experience in different fields to discover your passions and strengths.
• Competitive edge: Stand out on college applications by showcasing your initiative and real-world experience.
• Networking opportunities: Build connections with professionals who can mentor and support you in your career journey.
• Confidence building: Develop self-assurance by taking on responsibilities in a professional setting.
• Accountability: Learn the importance of deadlines, reliability, and workplace etiquette.
• Perspective: Gain insights into what it takes to succeed in a chosen industry, helping you align goals with your interests.

5 Steps to Getting an Internship in High School

So, how can you get an internship in high school? It might feel like a big task, but landing the right opportunity is manageable when broken down into simple steps:

Step 1. Identify Your Interests and Goals

Start by reflecting on what excites you. Are you passionate about technology, healthcare, or writing? Identifying your interests will help narrow your focus and set clear goals for your internship. K12 programs can help you discover your strengths and explore career paths that align with them.

Step 2. Research Internship Opportunities

Knowing how to find high school internships is key. Here are some ideas:

• Online platforms: Websites like Tallo, LinkedIn, Indeed, and Chegg Internships are great starting points. Tallo is explicitly geared toward high school students.
• Local businesses: Reach out to companies in your area to ask if they offer internships for high school students.
• School partnerships: Check with your school counselor or career center, as many schools collaborate with local organizations.

Step 3. Build a Résumé and Cover Letter

Highlight your strengths in a résumé, even if you don’t have much work experience yet. Include:

• Your contact information
• Education and relevant coursework
• Extracurricular activities or leadership roles
• Volunteer work or part-time jobs
• Transferable skills, like time management or problem-solving

Write a cover letter tailored to the internship. Introduce yourself, explain your interest, and connect your skills to the role. For example, if applying for a marketing internship, mention your experience managing social media for a school club or working on the yearbook team.

Step 4. Prepare for the Application Process

Once you’ve got your résumé ready, don’t forget to:

• Fill out applications accurately: Double-check your applications for typos or missing information.
• Request letters of recommendation: Ask teachers, counselors, or mentors who know you well to provide personalized recommendations.
• Meet deadlines and follow up: Track deadlines and follow up a week or two after submitting your application to express your interest.

Step 5. Ace the Interview

At some point, you’ll be contacted for an interview. Don’t be nervous! Preparation is how to get internships in high school and make a strong impression. Be ready for questions like:

• Why are you interested in this internship?
• What skills or experiences do you bring to this role?
• What are your career goals?

Interviewers want thoughtful answers that show your interest and readiness to contribute. To help you prepare, practice with a teacher, family member, or friend to build confidence and polish your answers. Treat it like the real thing to get comfortable with the format. Also, be sure to dress appropriately, maintain eye contact, and send a thank-you note afterward to show appreciation and professionalism.

How to Get the Most From an Internship

Landing an internship is just the beginning. Making the most of it takes effort, focus, and a good attitude. Here are some tips to offer your teen that will turn this opportunity into a meaningful experience that sets the stage for success.

Manage Your Time

Balancing school, extracurriculars, and an internship can sometimes feel like too much. This is where good time management can make all the difference. Here are some suggestions:

• Use a planner or calendar: Schedule your internship hours, deadlines, and other responsibilities to stay on track.
• Set priorities: Identify the most important tasks each week and tackle them first.
• Communicate early: School should be your #1 priority during high school, so if conflicts arise, inform your internship supervisor beforehand to maintain professionalism.

Find Opportunities for Mentorship and Networking

Building relationships during your internship can lead to valuable advice and future opportunities. Reap these benefits by:

• Asking questions: Show curiosity about the work and seek guidance from experienced colleagues.
• Connecting with people on LinkedIn: Stay in touch with professionals you meet during your internship with online communities.
• Requesting feedback: Regularly ask for feedback to improve and show people you value their input.

Learn, Grow, and Leave a Positive Impression

An internship is a chance to grow your soft and hard skills while making a strong impression, which could lead to future opportunities. No matter how long or short your internship is, always try to:

• Take initiative: Volunteer for tasks, even if they’re outside your comfort zone.
• Be dependable: Arrive on time, meet deadlines, and follow through on commitments.
• Show gratitude: Thank your supervisor and teammates for their support and guidance—it leaves a lasting impression.

Reflect on the Experience

Once your internship ends, evaluate what you gained and how it aligns with your goals. Some things that might help you reflect include:

• Keeping a journal: Write down key takeaways, challenges, and skills you developed.
• Reassess your interests: Consider whether this experience sparked or changed your career aspirations. Sometimes, internships will show you what you actually don’t want to do, and that’s valuable information too.
• Planning next steps: Use what you’ve learned to guide your future decisions, whether pursuing another internship or diving deeper into your chosen field.

Common Internship Challenges and How to Overcome Them

While internships are an incredible way to learn and grow, like anything worthwhile, they can come with a few bumps along the way. The good news? These challenges are manageable with a little planning and the right mindset. Here’s how your child can tackle some of the most common hurdles and turn them into opportunities.

Lack of Opportunities in Certain Areas

One challenge to finding high school internships is that not every industry readily offers internships, especially for high schoolers. However, there are ways to get creative.

• Explore virtual internships: Many companies now offer remote opportunities that allow students to gain experience without geographic limitations. Check out online platforms like Tallo or programs that connect high schoolers with virtual internships.
• Create opportunities: Reach out to professionals for job shadowing experiences or offer to volunteer your time. Even short-term exposure can provide amazing insights and connections.

Competitive Application Processes

Internships can indeed be competitive, but standing out as a high school student is possible:

• Show passion: Highlight genuine interest in the field through résumés, cover letters, and interview responses. Display excitement about the opportunity.
• Focus on transferable skills: Showcase skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership from school projects or extracurriculars.
• Build relationships: Networking can give you an edge, so make sure to connect with teachers, counselors, and local professionals who might know of opportunities or provide recommendations.

Balancing Commitments

Anyone juggling school, extracurriculars, and an internship can get burned out. We always recommend staying organized to keep stress in check:

• Use a planner or virtual calendar: Write down deadlines, internship hours, and other responsibilities to manage time effectively.
• Set boundaries: Communicate availability clearly so expectations and schedules align.
• Take breaks: Remember to rest and recharge. Downtime is essential for avoiding burnout and staying focused.
• Prioritize tasks: Identify the most important responsibilities each week and tackle those first.
• Ask for help when needed: When overwhelmed, reach out to a teacher, mentor, or family member for advice or support.

How K12 Supports High School Students in Internship and Career Exploration

At K12, we’re committed to helping students explore career opportunities, land meaningful internships, and build skills that prepare them for the future. With personalized guidance and tools, we empower students to take the next step confidently.

Ready to help your child gain real-world experience? Discover how K12’s career exploration programs make the journey easier—and more rewarding.