Key Factors in Choosing the Right U.S. High School: A Guide for Parents
As high school seniors gear up for their final year, they have a lot on their plates—college applications, community service, extracurricular activities, and academic courses. Now, there’s a new item on the to-do list for many students: internships.
The Rise of High School Internships
Some high schools now encourage students to participate in internships during their junior or senior years. These internships offer practical work experience, help students explore potential career paths, and teach essential job skills.
While college students often intern to gain a foothold in the job market, high school internships focus more on learning and experience rather than landing a full-time job. These experiences help students explore academic fields and career options years before they need to make a decision.
Exposure to the basics of industry knowledge and interaction with coworkers helps students navigate the uncertainty that often accompanies the high school years. According to Laurie Kopp Weingarten, president of a New Jersey college counseling service, “We find that students who intern in high school tend to be more mature and better equipped to handle the responsibilities expected of them.”
Participating in internships at local companies, non-profits, or community organizations can be a valuable alternative to classroom learning and may even give students an edge in college applications. Kevin Davis, founder and chairman of the non-profit First Workings, emphasizes that high school internships can significantly contribute to a student’s professional development. Through these experiences, students gain confidence in their chosen paths.
Benefits of High School Internships
- Development of Professional Skills: Internships help students cultivate crucial professional skills, such as communication, self-expression, and the ability to work effectively with others in a professional setting.
- Exploration of Career Interests: High school internships allow students to “try out” potential career paths, providing insight into the realities of different industries and the skills required.
Tips for Finding High School Internships
- Identify Your Interests:
Start by listing your interests, talents, and passions. Consider which subjects and extracurricular activities you excel in and what qualities or abilities others recognize in you. - Leverage Personal Connections:
Networking is key to finding your first internship. Reach out to teachers, mentors, parents, and even use social media to showcase your skills. They may provide useful advice or connections. Sometimes, companies directly contact high school guidance offices to promote internships, so your counselor may be able to connect you with local opportunities. - Use Online Resources Wisely:
While a Google search for “how to find a high school internship” can yield thousands of results, it’s better to use the internet to expand on known opportunities rather than to blindly search. Research specific companies, industry knowledge, and required skills in your area. - Prepare an Elevator Pitch:
Before reaching out to companies, prepare a brief introduction or “elevator pitch” about yourself. Practice delivering this pitch with friends or family until it feels natural. A well-rehearsed pitch will boost your confidence and help you present your strengths during interviews. - Evaluate Internship Opportunities Carefully:
When considering potential internships, list what you want to learn and ensure the experience aligns with your goals. Avoid internships that don’t offer meaningful learning opportunities. A valuable internship should include all the elements on your checklist, helping you make informed career decisions.
The Growing Popularity of High School Internships
Research shows that internships significantly increase a student’s employment potential. According to a 2019 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 70% of interns received job offers.
High school internships are becoming increasingly popular. A 2020 study by the non-profit American Student Assistance organization cited a survey showing that 17.6% of high school students completed internships in 2020.
As a result, some high schools now include internships as an option or requirement for graduation. For example, Madeira School, a private girls’ high school near Washington, D.C., emphasizes experiential learning and has included internships as part of its curriculum for years. Trinity High School in Ohio also offers internship programs, placing students in industries ranging from healthcare to municipal services.
Education experts note that such experiences allow students to test their interest in career paths. Many teens are exploring potential careers without fully understanding what the work entails, its demands, or the required skills. Internships help develop valuable professional skills, including communication, self-expression, and the ability to work effectively with others.
Conclusion: The Importance of High School Internships
The more prepared students are when entering college, the easier it is for them to adapt to academic demands and social pressures. College education aims to support students in completing degrees and building social connections, and those who participate in internships during high school often get a head start.
When seeking high school internships, it’s crucial to understand the responsibilities involved and ensure that the work aligns with the student’s goals. An internship should be seen as an opportunity for learning and growth, not just a task to be completed.
In conclusion, managing your internship is vital, as it teaches students essential skills like effective communication, professional thinking, time management, and most importantly, the foundation for a well-rounded career development path.
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