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How can I land internships and research opportunities as a high school student without much practical experience ?
STEM research opportunities and internships usually require a high school degree and current enrollment in college. Is there any way to successfully gain experience while in high school?
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6 answers
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Joseph’s Answer
Great question, Anaya. Keep this in mind: everyone starts somewhere. I appreciate the fact that you're recognizing the lack of practical experience, so challenge yourself: in lieu of that, what else do you have to offer? Show off your skills and strengths, and be prepared to elaborate how you're able to contribute as a potential intern. Once you're ready for that, you're ready to search for opportunities.
I'd start by looking up companies who offer internships, perhaps some that are already offering openings you'd be interested in. Reach out to people in that company (people who lead the internship, workers, or even existing interns themselves) and request an informational interview. Let them know you're interested in applying as an intern and would love an idea of what it takes to be successful. More often than not you'll get some more direct assistance this way.
Hope that helps!
I'd start by looking up companies who offer internships, perhaps some that are already offering openings you'd be interested in. Reach out to people in that company (people who lead the internship, workers, or even existing interns themselves) and request an informational interview. Let them know you're interested in applying as an intern and would love an idea of what it takes to be successful. More often than not you'll get some more direct assistance this way.
Hope that helps!
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Absolutely! Despite the requirements of any internships, have faith. Do your research on where you want to internship. Find out as much as you can about the business, including the names and positions of the higher ups in the company. Dress well and professionally. Go to the business you want experience in and tell them all the wonderful things you like about the company (using the information you researched including the company’s mission statement). Politely ask if they can help with what you need. You may want to rehearse what your future plans are and how this internship will help you achieve your goals. You may even want to write out a letter on paper to use as a cheat sheet and leave a copy with whoever you are speaking with. You’ll be surprised how many people are willing to help a kind, respectful and professional person achieve their goals!
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Rachel’s Answer
Start by networking. Build a LinkedIn profile and start researching via LinkedIn available internships, message and connect with those posting available open internship roles. You can contact your local township and ask about open roles as well. Good luck! Networking is key!
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Pamela’s Answer
Hello Anaya
There are several options available for high school students who are interested in STEM research opportunities and internships. You can start by reaching out to local universities or research institutions to inquire about any available programs or positions. Additionally, there are many online resources and databases that list internship and research opportunities for high school students. You can also consider volunteering at a local science museum or participating in science fairs to gain experience and make connections in the field.
Good luck!
I hope this helps!
Pamela Knight
Blessings❤️
There are several options available for high school students who are interested in STEM research opportunities and internships. You can start by reaching out to local universities or research institutions to inquire about any available programs or positions. Additionally, there are many online resources and databases that list internship and research opportunities for high school students. You can also consider volunteering at a local science museum or participating in science fairs to gain experience and make connections in the field.
Good luck!
I hope this helps!
Pamela Knight
Blessings❤️
Updated
Barbara’s Answer
Once you identify or narrow down the type of internship or research opportunity that you want to pursue, then you can start your research and networking. Take in consideration the subjects and hobbies that you truly enjoy. There are many websites that list internship and research opportunities for high school students such as Intermatch,Internships.com, and Chegg Internship. Also search for reseach opportunities at universities and research institutions that are located near you. Talk to your school counselor about connecting you to local organizations/businesses that offer internships or research to high school students. Talk to your parents, teachers, friends and family members to see if they know of any opportunities that may be a good fit for you. Create a strong application/resume to highlight your strengths and interests. Even if you don't have a lot of practical experience, you can showcase your willingness to learn. There are several resources you can use to find STEM research opportunities and internship in your area~here is a short list. Westhester Science and Engineering Fair(WESEF), Columbia University's Summer High School Research Program and the Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program. Some companies that you may want to check out include Regeneron and Pharmacueticals and IBM. There are several websites that list STEM research opportunities and internship for high school students. Just to list a few~ The National Science Foundation's Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, Student Research Foundation and The National institutes of Health's Summer Internship Program. Lastly, I would say internship, research and volunteering opportunities will help you gain valuable skills and knowledge that will be useful throughtout your academic and professional career. I wish you the very best.
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Hope’s Answer
Hi Anaya,
This is something I also experienced when I was trying to get my first job without much tangible experience. My best piece of advice to you would be to try your best to really understand the industry and role of the job. This can be through reaching out to people on LinkedIn with the similar job title / role, researching the position, reading case studies, etc. The more you can understand the position you are potentially interviewing for and show that during the interview then you can easily be taught the rest on the job.
The reality is, anytime you start a new job there is a huge learning curve. When interviewing for positions, most people are looking for candidates that can grasp the general concepts in the job description and show you know enough to speak to what the interviewer may be looking for will go a long way.
Best of luck to you!!
This is something I also experienced when I was trying to get my first job without much tangible experience. My best piece of advice to you would be to try your best to really understand the industry and role of the job. This can be through reaching out to people on LinkedIn with the similar job title / role, researching the position, reading case studies, etc. The more you can understand the position you are potentially interviewing for and show that during the interview then you can easily be taught the rest on the job.
The reality is, anytime you start a new job there is a huge learning curve. When interviewing for positions, most people are looking for candidates that can grasp the general concepts in the job description and show you know enough to speak to what the interviewer may be looking for will go a long way.
Best of luck to you!!