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What are some unique internships you can get over the summer as a math major?

I’m not sure what I want to do after college yet, so I’d love to get some experience in many different fields before leaving college.

college spring25 internships math mathematics
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James (AJ)’s Answer

You're in luck; math is everywhere! You might be amazed at how a math major can bring value to roles that seem unrelated. For instance, a Product Management intern with math skills can help create or validate predictive models or excel in cost-benefit analysis. A Software Engineering intern can tackle mathematical problems and build algorithms in many areas like medical, automotive, financial, gaming, and meteorology. Data analysis and modeling are also fantastic skills that can be used in almost any professional field. Cyber-Security and Cryptology are other areas where math skills shine.

Even if an internship posting doesn't say "Math Majors Apply," don't let that stop you. Be creative, go for interesting roles, find problems, and solve them.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! Ariella
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Pranay’s Answer

That’s a smart mindset — exploring early helps you figure out what not to do just as much as what you might love, especially as a math major. Here are some unique and diverse summer internship options that go beyond just the typical finance or data analyst roles:

1. Game Theory & AI Research Intern
Where: University labs, AI startups, or companies like OpenAI, DeepMind, or Roblox
Why: Combines math with strategy, probability, and AI modeling
Skills used: Discrete math, statistics, logic

2. Quantitative Journalism or Data Storytelling Intern
Where: Media companies like The New York Times, FiveThirtyEight, or ProPublica
Why: You turn complex data into compelling public stories
Skills used: Data visualization, statistics, Excel/R/Python, narrative writing

3. Biostatistics or Epidemiology Intern
Where: NIH, CDC, WHO, or biotech companies
Why: Use math to study diseases, trials, and treatments
Skills used: Probability, regression, bio-math models

4. Operations Research/Logistics Intern
Where: Amazon, UPS, NASA, or any large supply chain company
Why: Work on optimization problems with real-world impact
Skills used: Linear programming, combinatorics, modeling

5. Math + Tech: Software Dev with Algorithms Focus
Where: Startups, Google, Meta, or tech bootcamps
Why: Apply theoretical math to real engineering problems
Skills used: Algorithms, logic, computer science theory, problem-solving

6. Math + Design: UX Research or EdTech Content
Where: EdTech startups (like Tutree), curriculum companies, or YouTube creators
Why: Make math more accessible through visuals or learning tools
Skills used: Concept simplification, instructional design, logical structuring

7. Think Tanks or Policy Research Intern
Where: Brookings Institution, RAND Corporation, Urban Institute
Why: Use statistical modeling to influence education, economy, or health policy
Skills used: Data analysis, research methodology, critical thinking

8. Actuarial Internship
Where: Aetna, PwC, State Farm, or similar
Why: High-demand field for analytical minds with strong long-term career paths
Skills used: Risk modeling, financial math, actuarial software
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Olivia’s Answer

Hey Ariella! I also majored in math. There are plenty of opportunities to do summer internships in consulting, finance, etc. that you can apply math to - I would probably find these through LinkedIn or potentially use career websites hosted by your school if they have one. However, if your passion is math, I would recommend looking into REUs (Research Experiences for Undergraduates). REUs are typically hosted at various colleges, and each is focused on a different discipline or subject in math. I was interested in applied mathematics and did an REU in Massachusetts where we modelled COVID spread among population and also viral spread within the body. I really enjoyed it and it helped me explore an area of math I didn't get to learn as deeply in classes. I didn't end up going into biological modelling, but a lot of the soft skills (problem solving, scoping your problem area) and technical skills (learning new coding languages and mathematical techniques) were very valuable to my career now.

You can search for NSF funded REUs here: https://www.nsf.gov/funding/initiatives/reu/search?f%5B0%5D=reu_research_area:25741

Good luck!
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Tristan’s Answer

Hi Ariella,

I started out studying math, thinking I wanted to be an actuary, but I found my path in software engineering. I want you to know that your opportunities are truly limitless. Skills like math, data analysis, and logical thinking are highly valued in today's job market. Follow your interests and see where they lead you. Technology and math work together in amazing ways.

Wishing you the best of luck, and keep exploring!
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Seema’s Answer

Agree with the advice above. Math related roles are more common than one would think. You can try looking for positions in the technical field, insurance related field, or Human Resources, to name a few. You can even apply for other entry level roles to get exposure into different areas and learn how you can apply your math knowledge to almost anything.
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