High School Internships: FAQs

October 2, 2024

Oriel Admissions High School Research Program

Why High School Students Should Consider Internships, and How to Get Started

Internships are no longer just for college students. In today’s competitive academic landscape, high school students who gain professional experience early stand out to college admissions officers and future employers alike. Here’s why internships matter, when to pursue them, and how Oriel Admissions can help.

Why Should High School Students Consider Internships?

Internships provide high school students with invaluable real-world experience, helping them build critical skills such as communication, time management, and problem-solving. They also boost resumes, strengthen college applications, and offer early exposure to professional environments, giving students a head start on exploring career interests. Perhaps most importantly, internships connect students with mentors and networks that can support them long after the program ends.

When Should Students Start Looking for Internships?

Sophomore and junior years are ideal times to begin pursuing internships. Many opportunities are available over the summer, so students should start searching and applying in early spring. It is also wise to begin networking, whether that means reaching out to local businesses, contacting professionals through family connections, or building a presence on LinkedIn. Early engagement increases access to more competitive and rewarding experiences.

How Do Internships Impact College Applications?

Internships are a powerful way to demonstrate initiative and depth of interest, qualities that are highly valued in selective college admissions. Here is how they make a difference:

Show commitment to a field: Interning at a startup, nonprofit, or lab helps signal a student’s genuine interest in a specific academic or career path.
Highlight real-world skill development: Internships give students the opportunity to work in teams, meet deadlines, and solve real challenges, skills that complement academic achievement.
Support a compelling application narrative: A well-chosen internship can tie together a student’s academic interests, extracurriculars, and future goals, making their story more cohesive and memorable.
Strengthen essays and interviews: Internship experiences often lead to meaningful reflections and anecdotes that enrich personal statements and help students shine during interviews.

Are Internships Required for College Applications?

Internships are not mandatory, but they are increasingly common among competitive applicants. They show maturity, initiative, and a willingness to engage beyond the classroom, which can set a student apart in a crowded applicant pool. Even a short-term internship can make a lasting impression if it aligns well with the student’s academic and career goals.

Can Students Find Virtual Internships?

Yes. Virtual internships have become more accessible in recent years and offer flexibility for students with geographic, financial, or scheduling constraints. Many companies and organizations now run robust remote programs, which allow students to gain valuable experience from anywhere.

Beware of Paid Internship Programs.

Students and families should be wary of paid programs that guarantee internships. At Oriel Admissions, we do not endorse or trust these programs. In our experience, internships that are purchased rather than earned are often of low quality and lack substance. More importantly, college admissions officers are increasingly aware of these types of experiences and view them with skepticism. Instead, we encourage students to seek internships based on genuine interests and qualifications, which provide far more value and credibility in the admissions process.

How Can Oriel Admissions Help?

Navigating the internship search can be overwhelming, especially when students are also focused on academics and extracurriculars. At Oriel Admissions, we provide expert support to help students identify, apply for, and succeed in internships that enhance both their personal growth and college applications. Our services include: