I'm curious about job opportunities with the federal government for high school students like me. Are there specific programs or internships for us to consider, even if we're not planning to go to college immediately?
Absolutely! The federal government offers several opportunities for high school students.
One such program is the Pathways Internship Program, which gives students the chance to work in agencies throughout the federal government. It's designed for individuals who are currently enrolled in a variety of educational institutions, from high school to graduate level. Paid opportunities are available at both the start and the end of the program. This internship provides a solid foundation for understanding government operations and can offer potential long-term employment.
Another notable program is the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP). It provides short-term employment opportunities to students in high school or college. This program can help students experience working in the public sector and understand the work of government agencies.
In addition to these, specific agencies often run high school engagement programs. For example, the FBI offers the Future Agents in Training (FAIT) program for high school students interested in law enforcement or national security.
For high school students interested in science or engineering, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) runs the NASA Internship program. This program connects high school, undergraduate, and graduate students with research and work opportunities within NASA facilities.
One important thing to note is, to find federal employment opportunities, you'll need to create a profile on USAJobs, the main job site for federal employment. It is a reliable source where you can find, in detail, the qualifications, requirements, and application process of federal jobs suitable for students.
These are just a few examples of the possibilities! There are many more opportunities available in various federal agencies and departments. So, make sure to do some research and find what suits your interests the best. Remember, these experiences can be incredibly valuable, even if you're not planning to attend college immediately.
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