How Can I Secure a Summer Internship in 2025?

Hey everyone, I'm interested in a summer internship next year (2025). I realize that's a while away, but I want to start planning now. Any advice on where to look for internships and how to secure one especially catered to high school students?

Securing a summer internship is a great way for high school students to gain experience and explore potential career paths. Here are several avenues to find internships and steps to secure them.

1. Research and Explore: First, determine the field you're interested in. Do you love coding? Maybe a tech internship would be fitting. Are you fascinated by human behavior? Consider interning at a psychology lab. Understanding your interests will help you narrow down possibilities and focus on what excites you.

1. Online Resources and Platforms: Browse through online resources that list internships tailored for high school students. Websites such as Internmatch, Chegg Internships, and Idealist are great starting points. Some websites also allow you to filter internships by field, location, and time duration.

1. Local Businesses and Organizations: Local businesses or organizations can offer internships or job shadowing opportunities. Reach out to them and express your interest. You'd be surprised at how many companies are willing to accommodate a driven high school student.

1. Guidance Counselors and Teachers: Use your in-school resources. Some schools have internship programs in place, or your teachers might know of opportunities that fit your interests.

1. Networking: Don't underestimate the power of networking. Reach out to your family, friends, or community members. They may have connections to opportunities you wouldn't find otherwise.

After identifying the potential internships, follow these steps:

1. Application Prep: Prepare your application materials, which usually include a resume and a cover letter. In some cases, you may need to provide references or letters of recommendation.

1. Submit: Submit your application materials according to the company's specifications. Make sure to double-check everything before hitting the submit button.

1. Follow-Up: After submitting your application, if you haven't heard back within a week or two, it's appropriate to send a follow-up email to confirm your application was received and to express ongoing interest.

1. Interview: If you are asked for an interview, prepare by researching the organization and practicing common interview questions. Be ready to articulate why you want the internship and what skills and qualities you bring to the table.

Remember, while internships can provide a great experience, they are just one way of developing your skills. If you don’t get an internship, consider volunteering, participating in a summer program, or even starting a project aligned with your interests.