Finding good internships as a high school student?

I've been trying to find internships relevant to my desired major, but most seem to be targeted towards college students. Anyone here got tips on landing internships as a high schooler?

It can be challenging to find internships as a high school student, but don't worry; there are still opportunities out there. Here are some tips to help you find internships that may suit your interests:

1. Start with local opportunities: Look for local businesses or organizations in your area that are relevant to your desired major. Reach out to them and inquire about any internship or volunteer opportunities they might have for high school students. Even if these positions are not advertised, showing initiative and expressing your interest may lead to an opportunity, as local businesses are often invested in the success of the young members of their community.

2. Network: Talk to your teachers, school counselor, and any mentors you have in your field of interest. They may have connections or know of opportunities that would be a good fit for you. Also, don't hesitate to reach out to your family and friends, as they might have valuable contacts as well.

3. Consider virtual internships: With the rise of remote work, many internships are now being offered virtually. These positions can be a great option for high school students, as they often have more flexible requirements and can be done from home. Check websites like Internships.com, Chegg, or Indeed for high school-friendly virtual internships.

4. Look into research programs: While these aren't officially internships, many colleges and universities offer summer research programs for high school students. These programs usually focus on specific subject areas and can give you valuable hands-on experience in your desired major. Visit the websites of colleges and universities that are known for your field of interest and look for information on their pre-college summer programs.

5. Explore non-profit organizations: Some non-profit organizations offer internships specifically for high school students, or might have volunteer positions that can provide relevant experience. Look for organizations related to your desired major and reach out to them to express your interest.

6. Job shadowing and informational interviews: If you're unable to secure an internship, consider asking professionals in your desired field if you can shadow them for a day or week to gain insights into their work. Alternatively, request informational interviews to learn about their careers and get advice on finding internships.

7. Check out CollegeVine's blog: CollegeVine has compiled lists of internships in particular fields (such as the arts or medicine) and in particular area (whether a state or a particular city), which can help you find something that both is convenient for you and aligns with your interests: https://www.collegevine.com/category/extracurricular-activities/internships. There are also some remote options on here, which allow for maximum flexibility.

Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific internship you're applying for, highlighting your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. And, of course, persistence is key, so keep looking for opportunities and applying to as many as possible, even if your first attempts aren't successful. Good luck!