3 answers
Amina
Student
Evesham Township, New Jersey
1
Question
Updated
367 views
What internship/program opportunities are for high schoolers interested in Architecture?
Hello! I'm a rising junior in high school interested in pursuing architecture. I was wondering if there are any internship opportunities for me related to architecture or arts in general, particularly NJ based or virtual. If not, are there any free programs related to art/architecture that could help me get into a T20 college in the future? Any other advice would also help. I have done shadowing in an architecture firm in the past, but it is too far away from me to continue. I also have multiple leadership positions in school, I have done a paid internship for my township yet it isn't related to architecture, and I have begun developing my portfolio for college.
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3 answers
Maria Altholz
Interior Designer
1
Answer
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Maria’s Answer
Start by getting to know all the parts of a construction site. Visit often. Begin by designing simple elements and see how they fit into real structures. Study the designs of great architects to understand their methods and styles. Learn how time and effort affect costs. Focus on selling—not just your designs, but also the skill of selling itself. Use AI as a tool for production, but stay true to your creativity and don't compromise.
Visit regulary a construction site. Residential or commercial. Understand applications.
Get familiarize with AI. Remember AI is a tool, for production learning and understanding, CAUTION review all details.
Learn from the masters! Study past great architects,
Learn the basic of economics and how to apply.
SELL.....Sell Learn how to be effective selling your work!!
Maria recommends the following next steps:
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Amina
Renee Carvan
Construction Manangement
5
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Renee’s Answer
Amina,
There are usually many Architecture and Design Firms that have programs for summer interns from both high School and College. Find some local architectural firms in your area and contact them via email to see if they have any opportunities. You may also want to check with American Institute of Architects of New Jersey to see if they have any upcoming events you can attend.
Good Luck with your search.
There are usually many Architecture and Design Firms that have programs for summer interns from both high School and College. Find some local architectural firms in your area and contact them via email to see if they have any opportunities. You may also want to check with American Institute of Architects of New Jersey to see if they have any upcoming events you can attend.
Good Luck with your search.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Amina
Daniel Adinoyi
photography
1
Answer
Zaria, Nigeria
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
You’re already in a stronger position than you may think. Having shadowing experience at an architecture firm, leadership roles, a paid internship, and starting your portfolio as a rising junior gives you a solid foundation.
I’d recommend focusing on a few things:
* Look for virtual or local internships with architecture firms, interior design studios, landscape architecture firms, engineering firms, or even nonprofit organizations involved in community design. Smaller firms are often more willing to take on high school interns if you reach out directly.
* Apply to free or low-cost architecture programs. Many universities and organizations offer summer architecture, design, and urban planning programs for high school students, and some provide scholarships or are completely free.
* Continue building a strong portfolio. Include sketches, architectural concepts, CAD work (if you’re learning it), photography, model making, and any personal design projects. Colleges love seeing your creative process, not just polished final pieces.
* If internships are limited, create your own opportunities. Design a tiny house, redesign a local public space, document the process, or volunteer with organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Self-initiated projects can be just as impressive.
* Learn industry tools like SketchUp, AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, or Adobe Creative Suite. There are plenty of free tutorials online, and having these skills will strengthen both your portfolio and future applications.
For T20 colleges, the biggest differentiators are depth and consistency. Instead of trying to collect as many activities as possible, show sustained interest in architecture through meaningful projects, leadership, competitions, and a compelling portfolio.
You’re on the right track Amina now focus on building a clear story around your passion for architecture rather than simply adding more extracurriculars.
I’d recommend focusing on a few things:
* Look for virtual or local internships with architecture firms, interior design studios, landscape architecture firms, engineering firms, or even nonprofit organizations involved in community design. Smaller firms are often more willing to take on high school interns if you reach out directly.
* Apply to free or low-cost architecture programs. Many universities and organizations offer summer architecture, design, and urban planning programs for high school students, and some provide scholarships or are completely free.
* Continue building a strong portfolio. Include sketches, architectural concepts, CAD work (if you’re learning it), photography, model making, and any personal design projects. Colleges love seeing your creative process, not just polished final pieces.
* If internships are limited, create your own opportunities. Design a tiny house, redesign a local public space, document the process, or volunteer with organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Self-initiated projects can be just as impressive.
* Learn industry tools like SketchUp, AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, or Adobe Creative Suite. There are plenty of free tutorials online, and having these skills will strengthen both your portfolio and future applications.
For T20 colleges, the biggest differentiators are depth and consistency. Instead of trying to collect as many activities as possible, show sustained interest in architecture through meaningful projects, leadership, competitions, and a compelling portfolio.
You’re on the right track Amina now focus on building a clear story around your passion for architecture rather than simply adding more extracurriculars.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Amina