A2X Consulting

Chances are that if you are a high school student pursuing an internship, you may be the only one of your friends doing so. That is because internships are traditionally thought of as college student territory. However, that is a myth. There are opportunities out there for high school students. So never fear! This may be a great way to gain vital experience that can strengthen your resume or college application.First, there are some things you should consider before starting your internship search.

1. What are you interests?
2. How many hours a week are you able to devote to an internship?
3. Do you have access to a car? Or will you be dependent on someone to drive you?
4. Would you wear special clothes (i.e. business apparel, clothes related to the field) for your internship?
5. What sort of work environment would you like to work in?
6. Are you will to travel for your internship?
7. What would you like the internship to help you accomplish?

Answering those questions should help you narrow down your options.

Next, where should you start your internship search? It seems like all search sites are made for college students! That is why you may have to do a little more work to find the perfect internship. Many students find it easiest to start local. Some local companies may advertise internships in the paper. Otherwise, start at your high school’s counseling office. They usually have good resources to assist you in your search. The local library is another good option.

After you decide which company you would like to apply to, contact them. If it is a specific internship you are applying for, then do your best to tailor your resume to fit the description of the job. However, it is entirely possible you are simply interested in contacting a company to “create your own” internship. In that case, try to learn the name of a hiring manager or human resources employee to contact with your idea and resume.

If that does not interest you, then perhaps a program at Microsoft, the Museum of Modern Art, or the Smithsonian Institutes would? They all have programs for high school students, but they tend to be for students from the local area.

Now, if you still want more options try one of the following websites:

Internshipprograms.com. A site that may offer some options for high school students. It allows you to search by employer, date, location, and field.

Internabroad.com.  This website highlights internships abroad. For the right student, it may be the perfect opportunity to travel and earn work experience. Most of the programs are offered in exchange for a placement fee.

Idealist.org. A community website where internships, volunteer opportunities, and jobs are posted. New internships are posted all the time.

Finding an internship is a journey, but finally snagging one is an exciting accomplishment—especially for a high school student. Hopefully, this has given you some ideas to jumpstart your search!

By Sara Beck. Sara is an MBA student and loves to travel. She blogs at www.sarabeck.wordpress.com.