By Kanika Agarwala, @deca.kanika | Burlington High School, MA
What is an Internship?
An internship is a short-term work experience in a professional setting. For high schoolers, it's one of the best ways to explore a career field before committing to a college major. Beyond that, internships help you build your resume, make you more competitive in the college admission process, teach you new skills and connect you with professionals in fields you're interested in.
Most high school internships take place over the summer and can be paid or unpaid, in-person or remote. Even a few weeks of real work experience can make a meaningful difference.
Finding an Internship
Internships for high schoolers aren't always easy to find. You may have to be creative when looking. But first, decide if there is a specific field you are interested in. A great place to start is from your DECA career cluster. Find out what industries align with your cluster. Also, apply to as many internships as you can. Applications are usually very competitive.
Start with Your Personal Network
Ask parents, relatives, coaches and teachers if anyone they know works in a field you're interested in. An introduction goes a long way.
Talk to Older Students
Friends or classmates who've already done internships can tell you exactly how they found theirs and whether it was worth it.
Search Online
Try LinkedIn, Indeed or even on the websites of companies you are interested in. Search specifically for "high school internship", plus your field of interest.
Contact Your Local Chamber of Commerce
Many chambers maintain lists of local employers willing to take on student interns. They can connect you with a local company. Most have a website where you can find contact information.
Reach Out to Local Businesses Directly
Don't wait for a job posting. Instead, email the owner or manager of a business you're genuinely interested in and ask if they'd consider having a student for the summer. You can offer to help with their website or social media, or be an extra pair of hands. You can find their emails or phone numbers on the website, on LinkedIn or by showing up at the business and asking to speak with a manager. The worst they can say is no.
Note: Make sure to attach your resume as a PDF to your email.
Organize
Create a spreadsheet to keep yourself organized. This is crucial! Make sure to note the internship, the due date and whether you submitted.
Applying: How to Stand Out
Build a Resume
It should be one page, clean and easy to read. If you don't have formal job experience yet, that's completely okay! Highlight your extracurriculars, leadership roles, volunteer work and relevant skills.
Answer Open-response Questions
Don't just say you'd be a good fit, explain why you want this internship and what genuinely excites you about the industry. Have a parent or teacher proofread before you submit.
Interviewing: What to Know
Dress professionally and show up prepared. Research the company beforehand and come prepared with a couple of thoughtful questions. Speak confidently and explain your background and your interest in the company - use your DECA skills! After the interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours. It's a small step that most candidates skip, and it leaves a strong impression.
What to Do Next
Whether or not you land an internship this summer, keep building. Create a LinkedIn profile - you're not too young, and it makes you easier to find. Continue to get involved in clubs and extracurriculars. And if you don't get an internship, get a summer job or build skills that make you a more competitive applicant. Any work experience shows colleges and employers that you're responsible and not afraid to put in the effort. Keep applying; the process gets easier every time.
