Hey y'all, a little bit stressed about my senior year here! I'm really interested in gaining some professional experience before I head off to college. But, I've heard the competition for high school internships is fierce. Can someone give me a lowdown of the most competitive high school internships out there? And maybe some tips on how to stand out amidst the competition? Thanks!
Sure, it's great that you're looking to gain professional experience through an internship. Several high-profile companies and organizations offer highly competitive internships for high school students. Examples include:
1. NASA High School Internship: This internship allows students to work on research projects under the guidance of a NASA mentor.
2. Microsoft Discovery Program: This provides high school students with exposure to the technology industry, allowing them to work on real-world projects.
3. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR): This eight-week program provides students a chance to conduct medical-related research.
4. Smithsonian Summer Internship: This provides hands-on, practical work experience in areas like history, art, science, and culture.
5. Google Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI): This internship is designed for high school seniors with a passion for technology — particularly students from historically underrepresented groups in the field.
These are just a handful of competitive internships; there are many others out there across various fields.
As for tips on standing out:
- Start by tailoring your application to the specific internship. Make sure your resume and cover letter highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.
- Try to go above and beyond in your application. If you are asked to submit one recommendation letter, for instance, consider submitting two — one from a teacher and one from someone who can speak to your abilities outside of the academic sphere.
- Show your passion for the field you're interested in. This can be through personal projects, extracurricular activities, or even relevant courses you've taken.
- Finally, don't underestimate the power of networking. Reach out to people who have already interned at the organization you're applying for. They can provide valuable insight and advice.
Remember, each application is a learning experience, and every rejection brings you one step closer to an acceptance. Good luck!
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