Interested in High School Student Computer Science Jobs?

I'm a junior in high school really into computer science. Are there entry-level jobs or internships I could apply for even with limited experience? How can I best prepare to get into this field?

Absolutely, many opportunities exist for high schoolers interested in computer science. As a high school student, you're eligible for internships at tech companies that specifically target high school students. Look for internships at companies with strong tech infrastructure like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon that offer programs such as Google's Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI) or Microsoft's High School Internship program.

Many of these programs prioritize diversity in tech, so if you're a student from groups traditionally underrepresented in tech such as women, racial minorities, or first-generation college students, you may have more opportunities available to you.

To best prepare, you want to develop a strong foundation in math and science. Enroll in advanced classes in these areas if you can, such as AP Calculus and AP Computer Science A, if your school offers them. Make sure you perform well in these classes to show that you can handle the problem solving and critical thinking skills often needed in computer science.

You can start learning a programming language or two on your own. Many computer scientists recommend Python or JavaScript as good first languages for beginners due to their readability and versatility. CodingBat and Codecademy offer free online tutorials that you might find helpful.

Look for computer science clubs, competitions, or hackathons in your school or local community where you can both apply what you're learning and collaborate with others. This can help you to gain experience working on team projects, which is similar to what you would do in many computer science jobs.

Another avenue you could explore is trying out online competitions or participating in coding platforms like HackerRank, CodeSignal, and Kaggle. These platforms also have interview prep sections that can be helpful for you to prepare and potentially grab attention of recruiters.

Lastly, consider approaching local businesses or non-profits to see if they have any tech needs. Perhaps you could help create a website, build a database, or even automate a simple task for them. Not only would this provide you with real-world experience, but it also shows initiative and a dedication to the field on your part. This practical experience could certainly be beneficial when applying to internships/jobs, as they often look for hands-on experience in real-world scenarios.

Remember, it's a continuous journey and learning with patience will lead you to master the science of computers!