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What should I do during summer, how to apply to a internship or job as a highschooler?
I'm trying to have a summer job or a internship, just to get some experience. I am in high school and I have some skills.
5 answers
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
As a high school student seeking a summer job or internship, it's important to take a strategic approach to maximize your experience and gain valuable skills for the future. First, identify your interests and the types of industries or roles that appeal to you, whether it's in business, technology, healthcare, or another field. Understanding what you enjoy or what you might want to explore professionally will help you target the right opportunities. Many companies and organizations offer internship programs specifically designed for high school students, so research local businesses, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies that might be open to providing internships or entry-level positions to young individuals eager to learn.
When applying for internships or jobs, it’s crucial to start early. Many competitive internships and summer programs require applications to be submitted several months in advance, so be proactive in researching and applying. Leverage resources like your school’s career center, online job boards, LinkedIn, and platforms such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or WayUp to find opportunities suited for high school students. Additionally, don't underestimate the power of networking; reach out to family members, teachers, mentors, or community leaders who may have connections or insights into potential internships or job openings.
In terms of your application, even if you don’t have extensive work experience, emphasize the skills you’ve already developed. Whether it’s proficiency in Microsoft Office, familiarity with social media, organizational abilities, or leadership in extracurricular activities, highlight these skills in your resume. Tailor your cover letter to each opportunity, focusing on your enthusiasm to learn, your work ethic, and how you can contribute to the organization. Be sure to mention any relevant coursework, volunteer work, or projects that demonstrate your initiative and passion for the role you are seeking.
Additionally, consider building a professional online presence by creating a simple LinkedIn profile that reflects your skills, interests, and any relevant experiences, even if they are school-related. This can serve as a digital resume for potential employers and make you stand out when applying for internships or jobs. Lastly, if you’re unsure where to start, look for volunteer opportunities or smaller, local businesses that may be more willing to hire or take on interns with less experience. Gaining any work experience, no matter how small, will provide you with valuable lessons in professionalism, time management, and communication—skills that will benefit you in any future career. With persistence, preparation, and a proactive attitude, you'll be well on your way to securing a rewarding summer internship or job.
When applying for internships or jobs, it’s crucial to start early. Many competitive internships and summer programs require applications to be submitted several months in advance, so be proactive in researching and applying. Leverage resources like your school’s career center, online job boards, LinkedIn, and platforms such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or WayUp to find opportunities suited for high school students. Additionally, don't underestimate the power of networking; reach out to family members, teachers, mentors, or community leaders who may have connections or insights into potential internships or job openings.
In terms of your application, even if you don’t have extensive work experience, emphasize the skills you’ve already developed. Whether it’s proficiency in Microsoft Office, familiarity with social media, organizational abilities, or leadership in extracurricular activities, highlight these skills in your resume. Tailor your cover letter to each opportunity, focusing on your enthusiasm to learn, your work ethic, and how you can contribute to the organization. Be sure to mention any relevant coursework, volunteer work, or projects that demonstrate your initiative and passion for the role you are seeking.
Additionally, consider building a professional online presence by creating a simple LinkedIn profile that reflects your skills, interests, and any relevant experiences, even if they are school-related. This can serve as a digital resume for potential employers and make you stand out when applying for internships or jobs. Lastly, if you’re unsure where to start, look for volunteer opportunities or smaller, local businesses that may be more willing to hire or take on interns with less experience. Gaining any work experience, no matter how small, will provide you with valuable lessons in professionalism, time management, and communication—skills that will benefit you in any future career. With persistence, preparation, and a proactive attitude, you'll be well on your way to securing a rewarding summer internship or job.
Thank you, Patrick for the advice.
Mina
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey there Ziyue!
Honestly, That’s a great move! Whether you’re looking for a job to earn some money or an internship to gain experience, there are plenty of opportunities out there—even if you don’t have much experience yet. I am just gonna go by step by step. 😉
Step 1: Decide What You Want to Do
Before applying, think about:
Do you want to earn money? (Look for part-time jobs)
Do you want career experience? (Look for internships)
Do you want to explore new skills? (Volunteering, courses, projects)
If you’re unsure, mix it up! You can get a part-time job while also doing a short internship or volunteering.
Step 2: Find Job & Internship Opportunities
Paid Summer Jobs:
Retail (stores, malls, cashier jobs)
Restaurants (server, host, barista, fast food)
Babysitting, pet sitting, tutoring
Lifeguarding (if you’re certified)
Camp counselor jobs
Local businesses (ask around!)
Now the Where to Look? Question!
Indeed, Snagajob, SimplyHired, or local job boards
Ask in person at stores and cafes (many don’t post online!) they post it on their doors or outside! 😏
Check city or community centers for local youth job programs, there are always!
Internships & Volunteer Work (this is Great for College Applications!)
. Many internships for high schoolers are unpaid but great for experience. Look for:
. Nonprofits & charities (They love volunteers!)
. Local government or city programs (Libraries, community centers)
. Museums, hospitals, research labs
. Tech & business internships (some remote!)
. Shadowing professionals (ask family, teachers, friends)
For these you can look:
LinkedIn (yes, even high schoolers can use it!)
Handshake (great for students, some internships don’t require experience)
Local colleges/universities (Some offer summer research programs for high schoolers)
Check company websites – Some big companies like Google, Microsoft, and banks have high school programs
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
.... Resume (Even if You Have No Experience!)
Include school activities, volunteering, personal projects, and skills.
Add things like teamwork, leadership, or customer service (even if it’s from helping in school clubs).
Free resume builders: Canva, Zety, Resume.io
.... Cover Letter (Optional but Helpful!)
Write why you’re interested and what skills you bring.
Example: "I am eager to learn and contribute. My experience in [school projects/volunteering] has helped me develop [relevant skills].”
... References
Teachers, coaches, mentors, or even a neighbor you helped—someone who can vouch for you, they all can count!
Step 4: Apply! 😎
Apply to at least 10-15 places (not every application will get a response).
Follow up after a week—email or call to show you’re serious.
If applying in person, dress neatly, bring your resume, and ask for the manager.
Step 5: What If You Don’t Get Hired?🤔
Don't get discouraged, just Create your own opportunities:
Freelancing – Offer services like tutoring, graphic design, or social media help (use Fiverr, Upwork).
Start a project – Build a blog, YouTube channel, or online shop (Etsy, Shopify).
Take free courses – Learn coding (CS50, Codecademy), marketing (Google Digital Garage), or business (Coursera).
Volunteer – Many organizations need help, and it builds experience.
Your summer is what you make of it—so start now and take action mate! Good luck! 🤗
Decide – Job, internship, or both?
Search & Apply – Use job boards, company websites, and ask around.
Build a Resume – Highlight skills, even from school activities.
Follow Up – Show you’re serious by checking back after applying.
Keep Learning – If you don’t land a job, try online courses, freelancing, or volunteering.
Honestly, That’s a great move! Whether you’re looking for a job to earn some money or an internship to gain experience, there are plenty of opportunities out there—even if you don’t have much experience yet. I am just gonna go by step by step. 😉
Step 1: Decide What You Want to Do
Before applying, think about:
Do you want to earn money? (Look for part-time jobs)
Do you want career experience? (Look for internships)
Do you want to explore new skills? (Volunteering, courses, projects)
If you’re unsure, mix it up! You can get a part-time job while also doing a short internship or volunteering.
Step 2: Find Job & Internship Opportunities
Paid Summer Jobs:
Retail (stores, malls, cashier jobs)
Restaurants (server, host, barista, fast food)
Babysitting, pet sitting, tutoring
Lifeguarding (if you’re certified)
Camp counselor jobs
Local businesses (ask around!)
Now the Where to Look? Question!
Indeed, Snagajob, SimplyHired, or local job boards
Ask in person at stores and cafes (many don’t post online!) they post it on their doors or outside! 😏
Check city or community centers for local youth job programs, there are always!
Internships & Volunteer Work (this is Great for College Applications!)
. Many internships for high schoolers are unpaid but great for experience. Look for:
. Nonprofits & charities (They love volunteers!)
. Local government or city programs (Libraries, community centers)
. Museums, hospitals, research labs
. Tech & business internships (some remote!)
. Shadowing professionals (ask family, teachers, friends)
For these you can look:
LinkedIn (yes, even high schoolers can use it!)
Handshake (great for students, some internships don’t require experience)
Local colleges/universities (Some offer summer research programs for high schoolers)
Check company websites – Some big companies like Google, Microsoft, and banks have high school programs
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
.... Resume (Even if You Have No Experience!)
Include school activities, volunteering, personal projects, and skills.
Add things like teamwork, leadership, or customer service (even if it’s from helping in school clubs).
Free resume builders: Canva, Zety, Resume.io
.... Cover Letter (Optional but Helpful!)
Write why you’re interested and what skills you bring.
Example: "I am eager to learn and contribute. My experience in [school projects/volunteering] has helped me develop [relevant skills].”
... References
Teachers, coaches, mentors, or even a neighbor you helped—someone who can vouch for you, they all can count!
Step 4: Apply! 😎
Apply to at least 10-15 places (not every application will get a response).
Follow up after a week—email or call to show you’re serious.
If applying in person, dress neatly, bring your resume, and ask for the manager.
Step 5: What If You Don’t Get Hired?🤔
Don't get discouraged, just Create your own opportunities:
Freelancing – Offer services like tutoring, graphic design, or social media help (use Fiverr, Upwork).
Start a project – Build a blog, YouTube channel, or online shop (Etsy, Shopify).
Take free courses – Learn coding (CS50, Codecademy), marketing (Google Digital Garage), or business (Coursera).
Volunteer – Many organizations need help, and it builds experience.
Your summer is what you make of it—so start now and take action mate! Good luck! 🤗
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Gerald J’s Answer
Maybe try to find a job in the career your going to be studying in college.
What do you plan on studying in college? Just wondering.
What do you plan on studying in college? Just wondering.
Updated
Gerald J’s Answer
Maybe try both.
Updated
Diana V.’s Answer
Good for you thinking and planning ahead for summer. In San Francisco, the San Francisco zoo has summer jobs. San Francisco airport has an internship program. Boys and girls clubs may be a good fit. You might also try the jobs for youth website.
Good luck!
Good luck!
This was super helpful, thank you!
Mina
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