I often get asked questions from families about the importance of an internship throughout high school and if students should be pursuing one. Internships can be wonderful opportunities for students while figuring out their path to college. Read my thoughts on how to decide if an internship is right for you below!
Should I do an internship?
An internship is a great option for you if:
You are thinking about several very different pre-professional options and want more information.
You know exactly what you want to study and pursue professionally, but don’t have any real-life experience in the field.
You have an interest that you’d like to explore in your larger community.
You have a portion of your summer or break open and want a way to use it meaningfully.
Are internships necessary?
Ultimately, not every high school student needs to do an internship; an internship is not a pre-requisite for college. However, it is a wonderful opportunity for you as you explore yourself and your interests along your path to college.
Top 3 roles of an internship during high school
Explore different career options
Thinking about both engineering and human services? Medical school? As a high school student exploring your many and varied interests, getting real-life experience in different sectors can be a huge help. Seeing what an engineer or a doctor does on a day-to-day basis can be game-changing information for you as you decide where to invest your time and energy, hopes and dreams.
Deepen your interests
If you are really invested in environmental issues and are active in these in your school, are there any non-profit organizations, governmental bodies, or even thinktanks in your area where you could learn from professionals in the field? Not only will this look great on a college application, it will truly deepen your understanding of the issues in a way that will expand your impact wherever you go.
Engage outside of the classroom and in your larger community
It goes without saying that interning in your field of interest will expand your network. When you make a good impression as a young high schooler looking to learn, professionals in your area will want to help you grow. You never know when these contacts may come in handy.
An internship may be a wonderful way to invest your time and energy to learn more about your interests from professionals in the field and in your area. If you still have questions on whether or not an internship is right for you, reach out today!