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How can I get a research internship this summer?
I'm currently in a high school junior in Brooklyn, NY. I would like to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for mechanical or chemical engineering. Are there any good websites I can learn some of this stuff on my own, potentially creating something in my high school career?
5 answers
Updated
Glenn’s Answer
Great that you are looking to get meaningful experience while you are in High School. The problem is that this is not so easy. Generally companies look for college students for internships. The best answer that I have is to network. Contact your teachers in your STEM program and let them know what yo are looking for. Then reach out to your parents and ask if they have friends working in mechanical or chemical engineering, or friend that work at a company that has mechanical or chemical engineers on staff. Also, your friends' parents may work in this field. Next is to look for companies close to where you live that work in these fields.
You need to also prepare. You will need a basic resume. Highlight your classes, your aspirations, any work experience. You can include a hobby or two as well. You should do some research on any company that you talk to, so you can have some questions to ask.
Good luck on your search
Network
Prepare a resume
Research the companies you contact
Set up appointments to discuss what you are looking for
You need to also prepare. You will need a basic resume. Highlight your classes, your aspirations, any work experience. You can include a hobby or two as well. You should do some research on any company that you talk to, so you can have some questions to ask.
Good luck on your search
Glenn recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Andrew
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Andrew, it’s great that you’re already thinking ahead about your future in mechanical or chemical engineering! You’re on the right path, and I’m sure you’re going to rock this journey! 😎
1. How to Get a Research Internship This Summer
Getting a research internship as a high school junior may seem a bit daunting, but it’s totally doable! Here’s a fun plan of attack to help you land one:
Start Local: Reach out to universities, labs, or engineering companies near you in Brooklyn. Many researchers are open to mentoring high school students, so don’t hesitate to email professors or researchers directly. Let them know you’re interested in learning and would love to assist with their projects. It’s a great way to show initiative and get hands-on experience.
Check Out Internship Programs: Look for specific internship programs like:
Research Science Institute (RSI) – This is a prestigious program that provides an immersive experience in science research, including engineering.
NYU Tandon School of Engineering – They may offer high school internships or programs, especially in mechanical or chemical engineering fields.
Internships.com or LinkedIn – These platforms can give you access to internship listings. Even if the listing isn’t specifically for high school students, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask.
Use High School Resources: Don’t forget to ask your school counselor or teachers for advice or potential connections. Sometimes schools have partnerships with research centers or companies looking for interns. You never know!
2. Learning On Your Own (You’re a Prodigy Already!)
Now, if you want to get a head start and develop some knowledge on your own (because why not flex your brain muscles?), here are some cool websites and resources:
Khan Academy: They offer free courses on pretty much everything, including engineering, physics, chemistry, and math. Start with mechanical engineering or chemical engineering basics.
Coursera & edX: These platforms offer free and paid courses from top universities in engineering. Look for courses on mechanical and chemical engineering. Some courses even offer certificates that you can add to your resume.
MIT OpenCourseWare: Yup, MIT’s got a treasure trove of free courses. Dive into their mechanical engineering or chemical engineering classes and get ready to nerd out!
YouTube Channels: Some amazing YouTube channels for self-learning are:
Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell: For simplified engineering concepts and mind-blowing animations.
Real Engineering: This channel breaks down mechanical and chemical engineering topics in a fun and understandable way.
Projects You Can Try: Engineering is all about building and designing, so start small with projects like:
Building a simple machine (levers, pulleys, etc.).
Experimenting with chemistry in your home (make sure to stay safe!).
Exploring 3D printing and designing your own models.
3. Additional Tips to Keep in Mind
Don’t Forget to Network: When reaching out to people for internships or mentorships, always be polite, enthusiastic, and curious. Engineers love talking about their work, so show interest and ask questions!
Show Your Passion: Whether it’s a personal project or a class assignment, show your genuine interest in engineering. Your passion will shine through in your emails, applications, and conversations with mentors.
Be Proactive: Create, build, and experiment. The more you can show you’ve taken the initiative, the more attractive you’ll look to future mentors and employers.
Final Thoughts
Andrew, you’re in an awesome spot to start building your engineering career now. The key is to stay curious, experiment, and get as much hands-on experience as you can. A research internship will give you the skills and knowledge you need to shine, and with your proactive mindset, you’ll be the one everyone’s trying to hire!
Good luck, and remember—engineers never stop learning! 😎
1. How to Get a Research Internship This Summer
Getting a research internship as a high school junior may seem a bit daunting, but it’s totally doable! Here’s a fun plan of attack to help you land one:
Start Local: Reach out to universities, labs, or engineering companies near you in Brooklyn. Many researchers are open to mentoring high school students, so don’t hesitate to email professors or researchers directly. Let them know you’re interested in learning and would love to assist with their projects. It’s a great way to show initiative and get hands-on experience.
Check Out Internship Programs: Look for specific internship programs like:
Research Science Institute (RSI) – This is a prestigious program that provides an immersive experience in science research, including engineering.
NYU Tandon School of Engineering – They may offer high school internships or programs, especially in mechanical or chemical engineering fields.
Internships.com or LinkedIn – These platforms can give you access to internship listings. Even if the listing isn’t specifically for high school students, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask.
Use High School Resources: Don’t forget to ask your school counselor or teachers for advice or potential connections. Sometimes schools have partnerships with research centers or companies looking for interns. You never know!
2. Learning On Your Own (You’re a Prodigy Already!)
Now, if you want to get a head start and develop some knowledge on your own (because why not flex your brain muscles?), here are some cool websites and resources:
Khan Academy: They offer free courses on pretty much everything, including engineering, physics, chemistry, and math. Start with mechanical engineering or chemical engineering basics.
Coursera & edX: These platforms offer free and paid courses from top universities in engineering. Look for courses on mechanical and chemical engineering. Some courses even offer certificates that you can add to your resume.
MIT OpenCourseWare: Yup, MIT’s got a treasure trove of free courses. Dive into their mechanical engineering or chemical engineering classes and get ready to nerd out!
YouTube Channels: Some amazing YouTube channels for self-learning are:
Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell: For simplified engineering concepts and mind-blowing animations.
Real Engineering: This channel breaks down mechanical and chemical engineering topics in a fun and understandable way.
Projects You Can Try: Engineering is all about building and designing, so start small with projects like:
Building a simple machine (levers, pulleys, etc.).
Experimenting with chemistry in your home (make sure to stay safe!).
Exploring 3D printing and designing your own models.
3. Additional Tips to Keep in Mind
Don’t Forget to Network: When reaching out to people for internships or mentorships, always be polite, enthusiastic, and curious. Engineers love talking about their work, so show interest and ask questions!
Show Your Passion: Whether it’s a personal project or a class assignment, show your genuine interest in engineering. Your passion will shine through in your emails, applications, and conversations with mentors.
Be Proactive: Create, build, and experiment. The more you can show you’ve taken the initiative, the more attractive you’ll look to future mentors and employers.
Final Thoughts
Andrew, you’re in an awesome spot to start building your engineering career now. The key is to stay curious, experiment, and get as much hands-on experience as you can. A research internship will give you the skills and knowledge you need to shine, and with your proactive mindset, you’ll be the one everyone’s trying to hire!
Good luck, and remember—engineers never stop learning! 😎
Updated
Heather’s Answer
Hello Andrew,
Fantastic work on discovering your enthusiasm for engineering and being eager to invest additional effort to gain more experience.
I recommend browsing the Engineering department websites of the universities you're interested in, identifying professors whose research areas match your interests, and sending them your polished resume and cover letter to convey your desire to become their summer intern! It would certainly boost your chances if you can inform them about your coding skills and other relevant software skills.
Numerous professors are passionate about fostering pre-college students' curiosity in their respective fields, particularly the assistant professors who are just beginning their careers. I've witnessed professors providing both on-site and remote internships to high school students. However, one drawback of these internships is that many professors might not offer you a paid position.
I hope this advice is helpful, and I wish you the best of luck in your internship search!
Fantastic work on discovering your enthusiasm for engineering and being eager to invest additional effort to gain more experience.
I recommend browsing the Engineering department websites of the universities you're interested in, identifying professors whose research areas match your interests, and sending them your polished resume and cover letter to convey your desire to become their summer intern! It would certainly boost your chances if you can inform them about your coding skills and other relevant software skills.
Numerous professors are passionate about fostering pre-college students' curiosity in their respective fields, particularly the assistant professors who are just beginning their careers. I've witnessed professors providing both on-site and remote internships to high school students. However, one drawback of these internships is that many professors might not offer you a paid position.
I hope this advice is helpful, and I wish you the best of luck in your internship search!
Updated
Mrinalini’s Answer
Great job, Andrew!
Here are some helpful links for you:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1749772820300300
- https://www.careers360.com/courses-certifications/articles/17-courses-in-chemical-engineering-students-can-pursue-right-now
- https://cutm.ac.in/study-guide/what-are-the-skills-and-qualities-that-you-need-to-be-a-mechanical-engineer/
Wishing you all the best in your endeavors!
Here are some helpful links for you:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1749772820300300
- https://www.careers360.com/courses-certifications/articles/17-courses-in-chemical-engineering-students-can-pursue-right-now
- https://cutm.ac.in/study-guide/what-are-the-skills-and-qualities-that-you-need-to-be-a-mechanical-engineer/
Wishing you all the best in your endeavors!
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Our company (ChevronPhillips Chemical) offers internships for college students. More information on our website here:
https://www.cpchem.com/careers/working-with-us/intern-graduate-programs
https://www.cpchem.com/careers/working-with-us/intern-graduate-programs
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