High school business internships: how to find them?

I'm really interested in business and I'd love to get some hands-on experience before I go to college. Are there internships in business that are available for high school students? Where can I find these opportunities and any tips on how should I approach them?

Absolutely, there are a variety of internship opportunities in the business field for high school students. One of the first places to start your search is within your own school or local community. Check the school's career office (both at your high school and local community colleges), talk to your teachers or counselors, or consider reaching out to alumni who now work in business. Local chambers of commerce or business associations may also be good sources for insight on where local businesses might be hiring interns.

Next, expand your search online. Websites such as Internships.com, Chegg Internships, Indeed, or LinkedIn often list opportunities that are high school-friendly. You can filter these listings to tailor to your specific career interests, whether that's in finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, and more.

As you're searching, be mindful of the skills you want to gain and the experiences you want to have. For example, working at a startup might give you a taste of entrepreneurial life, while interning at a larger corporation might expose you to a more structured business environment.

In terms of applying, treat the process as you would for a job application. Update your resume, prepare thoughtful cover letters, and ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, administrators, or previous employers if required. For the interviews, be sure to research the company and come prepared with questions that show your interest.

Lastly, don't forget to network. Attend career fairs, networking events, or seminars where you might be able to connect with potential employers. Networking can also be done digitally: consider reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn to understand their experience in the field. This could lead to unexpected opportunities and provide you with valuable insights.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to internships. A business internship as a high school student could be an amazing learning opportunity and help shape your future career path. Good luck!