8 answers
Adarsh
Student
Bellevue, Washington
1
Question
Asked
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What are good internships and research opportunities for high school students currently open?
Hello, my name is Adarsh, a junior in high school student in Bellevue, Washington. I am a very motivated and hardworking high school student who has multiple years of experience in programming with various languages like java, python etc. I believe to be a valuable asset for any company and am trying to expand my knowledge in my passion. Any suggestions/help towards this goal is appreciated
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8 answers
Sarah Nasser
Computer Science student
7
Answers
Woodside, NY
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Hi Adarsh,
The summer before my senior year of high school, I did an internship with MAD-learn. Research it (it's a company dedicated to including Mobile App Development in school curriculums).
The pros (it's an amazing internship):
1) It's remote and flexible. If you cannot finish a task one week, you can just finish it the next week (though you might want to ask your supervisor if they prefer you emailing them in advance).
2) In your application and interview, you will be asked what topics you are interested in. This can range from blog writing, to video editing, to coding and gamification, to designing technical learning curriculums, and more! The tasks you do in your internship is tailored to your interests, and you will probably really enjoy them. This means that all the interns working during the same summer as you will probably have different tasks, and you might learn more about that in the weekly Monday meetings, and when you and the interns send an email at the end of the week stating what tasks you all did during the week. (Note: I don't think you necessarily need to have prior experience with the tasks. The tasks will not only help you improve your skills, but you can also learn new skills. I learned blog writing, for example).
3) The weekly Monday morning meetings are great! The MAD-learn team and interns are extremely welcoming, enthusiastic, and approachable, and the meetings, despite being about the work that the interns and team have been doing, are quite fun.
4) Your supervisor will truly be willing to help you as you work on your weekly tasks.
5) The internship was very organized. At the beginning of my internship, my supervisor sent me a google spreadsheet with my weekly tasks, and every week, I update on the spreadsheet which tasks I have completed. Every Monday, before I start working after our morning meeting, my supervisor would have already clearly and specifically written the tasks I need to complete on the spreadsheet.
6) Your voice matters. You are strongly encouraged to participate in the Monday morning meetings, and during my internship, I also did a meeting where I discussed with the team and other interns about our ideas for MAD-learn's new product.
7) Toward the end of my internship, the team, all the interns, and I did a meeting where we made crepes (with cameras on). That was really fun!
8) You will get a $50 stipend at the end of your internship. Though I am not sure whether that's only reserved for interns who typically do their tasks well and on time. I also don't know if the stipend amount changed.
Though I will admit that the MAD-learn internship program is not entirely software engineering based or programming based. It's mainly so you can further explore your own interests (you can indicate coding as something you are interested in doing on the application), and you will get work experience while also having fun.
The general gist of what I did during my internship:
- Brainstormed ideas for MAD-learn's social media marketing and new product
- Wrote a blog about preparing for virtual internships, and a blog about the interns' thoughts about the internship program (For the latter blog, I even made a questionnaire and shared it with the other interns to get their thoughts!)
- Developed an app about aquariums (I chose the topic) on MAD-learn's website using their interfaces and templates
Research MAD-learn and decide if you want to apply for it
Feel free to ask more specific information about what the interns did
Apply for the internship! (I applied in June). You might get selected for an interview.
The summer before my senior year of high school, I did an internship with MAD-learn. Research it (it's a company dedicated to including Mobile App Development in school curriculums).
The pros (it's an amazing internship):
1) It's remote and flexible. If you cannot finish a task one week, you can just finish it the next week (though you might want to ask your supervisor if they prefer you emailing them in advance).
2) In your application and interview, you will be asked what topics you are interested in. This can range from blog writing, to video editing, to coding and gamification, to designing technical learning curriculums, and more! The tasks you do in your internship is tailored to your interests, and you will probably really enjoy them. This means that all the interns working during the same summer as you will probably have different tasks, and you might learn more about that in the weekly Monday meetings, and when you and the interns send an email at the end of the week stating what tasks you all did during the week. (Note: I don't think you necessarily need to have prior experience with the tasks. The tasks will not only help you improve your skills, but you can also learn new skills. I learned blog writing, for example).
3) The weekly Monday morning meetings are great! The MAD-learn team and interns are extremely welcoming, enthusiastic, and approachable, and the meetings, despite being about the work that the interns and team have been doing, are quite fun.
4) Your supervisor will truly be willing to help you as you work on your weekly tasks.
5) The internship was very organized. At the beginning of my internship, my supervisor sent me a google spreadsheet with my weekly tasks, and every week, I update on the spreadsheet which tasks I have completed. Every Monday, before I start working after our morning meeting, my supervisor would have already clearly and specifically written the tasks I need to complete on the spreadsheet.
6) Your voice matters. You are strongly encouraged to participate in the Monday morning meetings, and during my internship, I also did a meeting where I discussed with the team and other interns about our ideas for MAD-learn's new product.
7) Toward the end of my internship, the team, all the interns, and I did a meeting where we made crepes (with cameras on). That was really fun!
8) You will get a $50 stipend at the end of your internship. Though I am not sure whether that's only reserved for interns who typically do their tasks well and on time. I also don't know if the stipend amount changed.
Though I will admit that the MAD-learn internship program is not entirely software engineering based or programming based. It's mainly so you can further explore your own interests (you can indicate coding as something you are interested in doing on the application), and you will get work experience while also having fun.
The general gist of what I did during my internship:
- Brainstormed ideas for MAD-learn's social media marketing and new product
- Wrote a blog about preparing for virtual internships, and a blog about the interns' thoughts about the internship program (For the latter blog, I even made a questionnaire and shared it with the other interns to get their thoughts!)
- Developed an app about aquariums (I chose the topic) on MAD-learn's website using their interfaces and templates
Sarah recommends the following next steps:
Ava Helisman
Student
1
Answer
California City, California
Updated
Ava’s Answer
Networking: Connect with other students, professionals, and mentors in the tech industry. Attend local meetups, join online communities like Stack Overflow or Reddit, and consider reaching out to professionals for advice or mentorship opportunities.
Internships and Job Shadowing: Look for internships, part-time jobs, or job shadowing opportunities at local tech companies or startups. This will give you valuable real-world experience and help you understand what working in the industry is like.
Stay Updated: Stay informed about industry trends, news, and best practices by following tech blogs, podcasts, and online forums. Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments will help you stay competitive in the field.
Consider Higher Education: Depending on your career goals, consider pursuing higher education in computer science or a related field. This can provide you with a strong theoretical foundation and open up more opportunities in the industry.
Remember to stay persistent, curious, and proactive in your learning journey. Best of luck, Adarsh!
Internships and Job Shadowing: Look for internships, part-time jobs, or job shadowing opportunities at local tech companies or startups. This will give you valuable real-world experience and help you understand what working in the industry is like.
Stay Updated: Stay informed about industry trends, news, and best practices by following tech blogs, podcasts, and online forums. Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments will help you stay competitive in the field.
Consider Higher Education: Depending on your career goals, consider pursuing higher education in computer science or a related field. This can provide you with a strong theoretical foundation and open up more opportunities in the industry.
Remember to stay persistent, curious, and proactive in your learning journey. Best of luck, Adarsh!
Azilee Billy
Disasters
14
Answers
Sumter, South Carolina
Updated
Azilee’s Answer
You are correct about the fact that you would be a great asset to any company. Do your research on companies that you admire. Go to contacts or careers on their website and ask that vary same question. Some companies offer paid internships. Try FEMA.gov, The US State.gov., Vote.org,, NIH.gov, Google (Step) and list goes on. I am proud of you. Good Luck!
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
780
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Adarsh, it's important to recognize that your solid foundation in programming, combined with your eagerness to broaden your skills and knowledge, opens up a wealth of top-notch internship and research prospects for high school students like you. Bellevue, Washington, a hotbed for tech and innovation, presents a myriad of opportunities for those passionate about computer science and programming.
Consider exploring internships at local tech firms or startups. Many businesses in the vicinity offer internships specifically designed for high school students, giving you a chance to gain invaluable hands-on experience and exposure to real-world projects. These internships typically involve working side-by-side with seasoned professionals, mastering new technologies, and contributing to impactful projects. Look up local tech firms in Bellevue and surrounding areas, and ask about internship openings for high school students. Networking through events, workshops, and online platforms can also aid you in finding potential internship opportunities.
Moreover, Adarsh, think about applying for research programs or internships provided by universities or research institutions in the region. Numerous universities run outreach programs for high school students interested in STEM fields, including computer science and programming. These programs might include working with faculty mentors on research projects, attending workshops and seminars, and gaining exposure to academic and industry research practices. Research programs offer a unique chance to delve into specific areas of interest, hone research skills, and forge relationships with professionals in the field.
Another avenue worth considering is virtual internships or remote opportunities. Thanks to technological advancements, many companies now offer remote internship programs that allow students to work from any location. Virtual internships offer flexibility and convenience while still providing valuable learning experiences and exposure to industry practices. Check out online platforms and internship databases that focus on connecting high school students with remote internship opportunities in various fields, including programming and computer science.
Additionally, Adarsh, don't forget about opportunities within your school or local community. Many high schools have internship programs or partnerships with local businesses and organizations, offering students a chance to gain practical experience and apply their skills in real-world situations. Contact your school's career services office or guidance counselor to ask about internship opportunities and resources available to students.
In conclusion, as a driven and diligent high school student with programming experience, a plethora of internship and research opportunities await you in Bellevue, Washington, and beyond. Seek out opportunities with local tech companies, universities, research institutions, and online platforms to gain valuable experience, broaden your knowledge, and further fuel your passion for programming. By actively pursuing and capitalizing on opportunities, you can continue to thrive and excel in your field. Best of luck on your journey!
Consider exploring internships at local tech firms or startups. Many businesses in the vicinity offer internships specifically designed for high school students, giving you a chance to gain invaluable hands-on experience and exposure to real-world projects. These internships typically involve working side-by-side with seasoned professionals, mastering new technologies, and contributing to impactful projects. Look up local tech firms in Bellevue and surrounding areas, and ask about internship openings for high school students. Networking through events, workshops, and online platforms can also aid you in finding potential internship opportunities.
Moreover, Adarsh, think about applying for research programs or internships provided by universities or research institutions in the region. Numerous universities run outreach programs for high school students interested in STEM fields, including computer science and programming. These programs might include working with faculty mentors on research projects, attending workshops and seminars, and gaining exposure to academic and industry research practices. Research programs offer a unique chance to delve into specific areas of interest, hone research skills, and forge relationships with professionals in the field.
Another avenue worth considering is virtual internships or remote opportunities. Thanks to technological advancements, many companies now offer remote internship programs that allow students to work from any location. Virtual internships offer flexibility and convenience while still providing valuable learning experiences and exposure to industry practices. Check out online platforms and internship databases that focus on connecting high school students with remote internship opportunities in various fields, including programming and computer science.
Additionally, Adarsh, don't forget about opportunities within your school or local community. Many high schools have internship programs or partnerships with local businesses and organizations, offering students a chance to gain practical experience and apply their skills in real-world situations. Contact your school's career services office or guidance counselor to ask about internship opportunities and resources available to students.
In conclusion, as a driven and diligent high school student with programming experience, a plethora of internship and research opportunities await you in Bellevue, Washington, and beyond. Seek out opportunities with local tech companies, universities, research institutions, and online platforms to gain valuable experience, broaden your knowledge, and further fuel your passion for programming. By actively pursuing and capitalizing on opportunities, you can continue to thrive and excel in your field. Best of luck on your journey!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Adarsh,
Unlocking Internship and Research Opportunities for High School Students
As a high school scholar with a robust foundation in programming languages such as Java and Python, a plethora of stellar internship and research avenues are within your reach. These experiences are instrumental in honing your skills, acquiring practical insights, and bolstering your college applications. Here are some strategies to unearth these golden opportunities:
Tech Giants: Numerous tech conglomerates provide internships or research schemes tailored for high school students with a penchant for technology and programming. Renowned firms like Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Facebook have programs aimed at fostering budding talent. These initiatives often encompass mentorship, hands-on projects, and networking opportunities.
Academic Institutions: Universities frequently conduct summer programs or research opportunities for high school students enthusiastic about STEM fields. These initiatives enable you to collaborate with professors and postgraduate students on avant-garde research projects. Engage with local universities or browse their websites for information on available programs.
Nonprofit Entities: Nonprofit organizations dedicated to technology education might also provide internships or research opportunities for high school students. These entities strive to equip young individuals with technical prowess and furnish them with tangible experience in the field.
Digital Platforms: Websites like GitHub, Coursera, and Udemy offer online courses, coding challenges, and project ideas that can boost your programming skills and help you amass a portfolio of projects. Engaging in online coding contests or contributing to open-source projects can also be enriching experiences.
Local Enterprises: Do not underestimate the potential internship opportunities at local businesses or startups in your vicinity. Engage with small tech firms or startups that resonate with your interests and inquire about internship prospects. These experiences can be equally fulfilling and provide you with practical experience in a professional environment.
Hackathons and Coding Contests: Involvement in hackathons, coding contests, or tech events can be an excellent platform to demonstrate your skills, connect with industry experts, and potentially secure internship opportunities. Seek local or virtual events where you can team up with peers on innovative projects.
Ensure to customize your applications and inquiries to underscore your programming expertise, zeal for technology, and eagerness to learn. Networking with professionals in the field through LinkedIn or local tech meetups can also pave the way to thrilling opportunities.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Google Careers: Google provides a range of internship programs for high school students interested in technology domains such as software engineering, product management, and user experience design.
National Science Foundation (NSF): The NSF offers information on research experiences for high school students through its Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program.
Coursera: Coursera, an online learning platform, offers courses in computer science, data science, programming languages like Java and Python, which can assist high school students in enhancing their skills and knowledge in these areas.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
Unlocking Internship and Research Opportunities for High School Students
As a high school scholar with a robust foundation in programming languages such as Java and Python, a plethora of stellar internship and research avenues are within your reach. These experiences are instrumental in honing your skills, acquiring practical insights, and bolstering your college applications. Here are some strategies to unearth these golden opportunities:
Tech Giants: Numerous tech conglomerates provide internships or research schemes tailored for high school students with a penchant for technology and programming. Renowned firms like Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Facebook have programs aimed at fostering budding talent. These initiatives often encompass mentorship, hands-on projects, and networking opportunities.
Academic Institutions: Universities frequently conduct summer programs or research opportunities for high school students enthusiastic about STEM fields. These initiatives enable you to collaborate with professors and postgraduate students on avant-garde research projects. Engage with local universities or browse their websites for information on available programs.
Nonprofit Entities: Nonprofit organizations dedicated to technology education might also provide internships or research opportunities for high school students. These entities strive to equip young individuals with technical prowess and furnish them with tangible experience in the field.
Digital Platforms: Websites like GitHub, Coursera, and Udemy offer online courses, coding challenges, and project ideas that can boost your programming skills and help you amass a portfolio of projects. Engaging in online coding contests or contributing to open-source projects can also be enriching experiences.
Local Enterprises: Do not underestimate the potential internship opportunities at local businesses or startups in your vicinity. Engage with small tech firms or startups that resonate with your interests and inquire about internship prospects. These experiences can be equally fulfilling and provide you with practical experience in a professional environment.
Hackathons and Coding Contests: Involvement in hackathons, coding contests, or tech events can be an excellent platform to demonstrate your skills, connect with industry experts, and potentially secure internship opportunities. Seek local or virtual events where you can team up with peers on innovative projects.
Ensure to customize your applications and inquiries to underscore your programming expertise, zeal for technology, and eagerness to learn. Networking with professionals in the field through LinkedIn or local tech meetups can also pave the way to thrilling opportunities.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Google Careers: Google provides a range of internship programs for high school students interested in technology domains such as software engineering, product management, and user experience design.
National Science Foundation (NSF): The NSF offers information on research experiences for high school students through its Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program.
Coursera: Coursera, an online learning platform, offers courses in computer science, data science, programming languages like Java and Python, which can assist high school students in enhancing their skills and knowledge in these areas.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1914
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Adarsh !
Finding internships in your subject takes a bit of first hand exploring and I hope to help to start you towards discovering some. There is one paid internship for the summer in Puyallup, WA which appears on Indeed and you can read about it at https://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=computer+internships&l=Bellvue%2C+WA&from=searchOnHP&vjk=c63a32e7f7780232
My advice for seeking an internship in your subject would first be to check with your high school computer science lab staff and inquire there. Many internships, paid or unpaid, are not advertised and done by word of mouth sometimes. Also consider applying for a work study job when you apply for Financial Aid when you go to college because a Work Study job on campus can serve as a form of internship. You can also try using Ziprecruiter internship search at https://www.ziprecruiter.com/jobs-search?search=Intern&location=Bellevue%2C+WA&lvk=jskTv09t4mNX6o3xqhOJyg.--NKIFYJWXo
See if any local computer stores would give you an internship. Sometimes just asking may present the opportunity to you. I would advise doing this in person so you can connect with the people and make it more direct. You can try these places https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Computer+Store&find_loc=Bellevue,+WA and don't forget to visit Nerds To Go https://www.nerdstogo.com/bellevue-wa/
So, sometimes it's actually a matter of going around and offering or asking for an internship. You can also ask your guidance counselor if they know of any internships. If nothing is available, consider getting paid employment doing what you do best. Any experience whether it's an internship, volunteer work or paid employment will provide a beneficial experience to you and help you start a resume. They may not be exactly what you are looking for but you have some great places to look into so I am sure you'll find something.
Hopefully this is helpful for a start and I wish you all the best !
Finding internships in your subject takes a bit of first hand exploring and I hope to help to start you towards discovering some. There is one paid internship for the summer in Puyallup, WA which appears on Indeed and you can read about it at https://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=computer+internships&l=Bellvue%2C+WA&from=searchOnHP&vjk=c63a32e7f7780232
My advice for seeking an internship in your subject would first be to check with your high school computer science lab staff and inquire there. Many internships, paid or unpaid, are not advertised and done by word of mouth sometimes. Also consider applying for a work study job when you apply for Financial Aid when you go to college because a Work Study job on campus can serve as a form of internship. You can also try using Ziprecruiter internship search at https://www.ziprecruiter.com/jobs-search?search=Intern&location=Bellevue%2C+WA&lvk=jskTv09t4mNX6o3xqhOJyg.--NKIFYJWXo
See if any local computer stores would give you an internship. Sometimes just asking may present the opportunity to you. I would advise doing this in person so you can connect with the people and make it more direct. You can try these places https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Computer+Store&find_loc=Bellevue,+WA and don't forget to visit Nerds To Go https://www.nerdstogo.com/bellevue-wa/
So, sometimes it's actually a matter of going around and offering or asking for an internship. You can also ask your guidance counselor if they know of any internships. If nothing is available, consider getting paid employment doing what you do best. Any experience whether it's an internship, volunteer work or paid employment will provide a beneficial experience to you and help you start a resume. They may not be exactly what you are looking for but you have some great places to look into so I am sure you'll find something.
Hopefully this is helpful for a start and I wish you all the best !
Timothy Jordan
Researcher
2
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Timothy’s Answer
Hi Adarsh,
Like many have said, you can look at the major universities with research programs and apply for their high school research programs that usually take place during the summer, however sometimes high schools will have programs for students to do research at a local university for credit.
While those are options, the best option is honestly to reach out to a professor at the closest university to see about volunteering part-time in their lab (for you that would most likely be the University of Washington based in Seattle). As I've experienced in the lab I currently work in at UCLA we are almost always looking for volunteers to help us with data collection and if a volunteer shows reliability and motivation we even help them get their own project started if they want. We have had multiple semesters and summers where high school students (juniors and seniors) have come volunteered with us for a small period to get experience and ask questions about careers in science.
To have the best chance of being accepted into a lab I would do the following:
1. Prepare a CV/resume outlining your skills
2. Research the professor you want to potentially work under (know what research they're actually doing, maybe read 1 or 2 of their most recent papers)
3. Make a well articulated email about what you are looking for and how much time you have for it (also if commuting isn't possible, outline that you are willing to do remote work and attend meetings via zoom, with some occasional in-person days)
4. MAKE SURE TO SPELL THEIR NAME CORRECTLY! I can't tell you how many students reach out to our lab and misspell our professors name which is an instant mark against them as it shows that the person didn't even bother to pay attention to that detail and be respectful while asking for something.
This will just be the quickest way to get into something locally, and then when the time comes for those paid summer research programs you'll have a stronger chance of getting them as the professor you work under can push harder for you to get funding as they'll be invested in you.
Hope this helps and best of luck!
Like many have said, you can look at the major universities with research programs and apply for their high school research programs that usually take place during the summer, however sometimes high schools will have programs for students to do research at a local university for credit.
While those are options, the best option is honestly to reach out to a professor at the closest university to see about volunteering part-time in their lab (for you that would most likely be the University of Washington based in Seattle). As I've experienced in the lab I currently work in at UCLA we are almost always looking for volunteers to help us with data collection and if a volunteer shows reliability and motivation we even help them get their own project started if they want. We have had multiple semesters and summers where high school students (juniors and seniors) have come volunteered with us for a small period to get experience and ask questions about careers in science.
To have the best chance of being accepted into a lab I would do the following:
1. Prepare a CV/resume outlining your skills
2. Research the professor you want to potentially work under (know what research they're actually doing, maybe read 1 or 2 of their most recent papers)
3. Make a well articulated email about what you are looking for and how much time you have for it (also if commuting isn't possible, outline that you are willing to do remote work and attend meetings via zoom, with some occasional in-person days)
4. MAKE SURE TO SPELL THEIR NAME CORRECTLY! I can't tell you how many students reach out to our lab and misspell our professors name which is an instant mark against them as it shows that the person didn't even bother to pay attention to that detail and be respectful while asking for something.
This will just be the quickest way to get into something locally, and then when the time comes for those paid summer research programs you'll have a stronger chance of getting them as the professor you work under can push harder for you to get funding as they'll be invested in you.
Hope this helps and best of luck!
Kieran
Video Producer & Visual Designer
12
Answers
Updated
Kieran’s Answer
Hey Adarsh,
Since you're a junior in high school, it'll be difficult to obtain any paid intern roles and research opportunities since you'll be competing with people who are applying for the same roles as college students and college graduates. That is unless you're applying for high school only internships and opportunities, which other answers have provided links to.
It's great that you're starting early in your career. My advice right now would to be apply to unpaid internships (typically easier to obtain since it's free labor from the company's point of view) and working on your portfolio. What can you create with the java? What can you create with python? Take time and work on personal projects that you can put on your portfolio, and that'll set your future self up for success.
Best of luck!
Since you're a junior in high school, it'll be difficult to obtain any paid intern roles and research opportunities since you'll be competing with people who are applying for the same roles as college students and college graduates. That is unless you're applying for high school only internships and opportunities, which other answers have provided links to.
It's great that you're starting early in your career. My advice right now would to be apply to unpaid internships (typically easier to obtain since it's free labor from the company's point of view) and working on your portfolio. What can you create with the java? What can you create with python? Take time and work on personal projects that you can put on your portfolio, and that'll set your future self up for success.
Best of luck!