What is the NASA High School Internship Program?

Have you ever looked up at the stars and dreamed of being a part of something bigger? If you’re a high school student with a passion for science and space, then the NASA High School Internship Program might be the perfect opportunity for you! This program lets you headfirst into the world of space exploration alongside NASA’s brightest minds.

In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this exciting program, from eligibility requirements and application tips to what you can expect as an intern.

What is the NASA High School Internship/Fellowship Program?

NASA offers internship and fellowship programs specifically designed to cultivate the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and math). These programs are crucial to strengthening and expanding the nation’s STEM workforce. This ensures a bright future for space exploration and technological advancements.

The internship opportunities are spread across four campuses, each offering a different environment to learn and contribute. Students can gain valuable experience at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland; the Wallops Flight Facility located on Wallops Island, Virginia; the Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York City; or the Independent Verification and Validation Facility in Fairmont, West Virginia.

One of the defining aspects of NASA’s internship programs, particularly the High School Internship program, is the strong focus on mentorship. Volunteer scientists, engineers, researchers, and other administrative personnel dedicate their time to guiding students. These experienced professionals create a stimulating work environment where interns can gain not only new technical skills but also valuable professional insights. This one-on-one mentorship fosters a passion for space exploration and empowers a new generation of thinkers to propel us forward in our journey to understand and explore the universe.

What Do Students Do in the NASA High School Internship Program?

Imagine yourself working on real NASA projects under the guidance of experienced mentors. You’ll get a chance to explore various tasks and activities, depending on the specific department you’re assigned to. This could involve assisting with office tasks, getting firsthand exposure to NASA operations through shadowing opportunities, or even helping to set up and run special events. Throughout the internship, you will be guided by a NASA mentor who will support you and answer any questions you may have.

The program isn’t just about technical work. It’s designed to give you a well-rounded internship experience. You’ll gain work experience that can be a stepping stone to your future career. But more importantly, you’ll get to see what it’s really like to be part of the team behind incredible space missions and discoveries. It’s a chance to learn from the experts and develop your skills in a dynamic and inspiring environment.

Additionally, you’ll learn how to work in a team environment, manage your time effectively, and communicate complex ideas clearly. These are valuable skills that will benefit you no matter what career path you choose.

By the end of the internship, you’ll not only have gained practical experience but also a deeper understanding of NASA’s mission and the many different career paths that exist within the agency.  This program is a great way to see if a future in space exploration is the right fit for you.

How to Apply to the NASA High School Internship Program?

If you’re dreaming of a NASA high school internship, there are specific requirements you’ll need to meet to be eligible. First, you must be a U.S. citizen, have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and be at least 16 years old. Additionally, you should be a current sophomore, junior, or senior in high school.

On top of meeting these eligibility requirements, you’ll also need to compile a strong application package. This typically includes a letter of recommendation from a teacher or advisor who can speak to your academic ability and potential. You’ll also want to provide a detailed list of your relevant work and extracurricular experiences that show your skills and interests. Your official academic transcript will also be needed to demonstrate your academic performance.

The application process also involves writing three essays, each with a specific focus. In the first essay (100–300 words), you’ll get to tell NASA why you’re passionate about working with them and what excites you about contributing to their mission. The second essay (100–300 words) allows you to highlight any previous experiences you’ve had that are relevant to your desired internship, such as science projects, robotics clubs, or volunteer work. Finally, the third essay (100–300 words) gives you a chance to articulate your career goals and how a NASA internship aligns with your future aspirations.

To get a better idea of the specific information you’ll need and the application format, it’s helpful to review the latest application form directly from NASA. You can find it on their website.

One important thing to keep in mind is the application deadlines. While NASA internships are offered throughout the year in the Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions, high school internships are typically limited to the summer session only. The Fall and Spring sessions run for 16 weeks each, starting in late August/early September and mid-January, respectively. The summer session is shorter, at 10 weeks, and begins in late May/early June. Since NASA is constantly bringing in new interns for all the sessions, deadlines can vary slightly from year to year. However, a good rule of thumb is to plan on applying at least 3–4 months in advance of your preferred internship session. This will give you ample time to prepare a strong application and ensure you meet all the deadlines.

What is the NASA Pathways Intern Employment Program (IEP)?

The NASA Intern Employment Program (IEP) is an opportunity for current students and recent graduates to gain paid work experience, develop their careers, and get a head start in the space industry. Following successful completion of the program, participants have a strong chance of securing permanent employment at NASA.

The IEP offers placements across ten different NASA locations, including esteemed research centers, service centers, and test facilities. These locations include the following:

1. Ames Research Center (Mountain View, California)
2. Armstrong Flight Research Center (Edwards Air Force Base, California)
3. Johnson Space Center (Houston, Texas)
4. Stennis Space Center (Mississippi)
5. Kennedy Space Center (Titusville, Florida)
6. Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville, Alabama)
7. Langley Research Center (Hampton, Virginia)
8. NASA Headquarters (Washington, D.C.)
9. Goddard Space Center (Maryland)
10. Glenn Research Center (Cleveland, Ohio).

The IEP itself is a two-track program designed to cater to different interests and career goals. Students with a broad range of skills and interests that span multiple sectors within NASA can apply for the multi-center track. This track allows participants to gain experience through three rotations at three different NASA locations, providing a well-rounded understanding of the agency’s diverse operations. Alternatively, the single-center track is ideal for students with highly specialized skills or a strong focus in a particular academic area that aligns with specific positions at NASA. Students in this track are paired with dedicated mentors and advisors who can help them fully explore their chosen field and develop their expertise.

What Do Interns Do in the NASA Pathways Intern Employment Program (IEP)?

Participants in the NASA IEP program don’t just fill a single role; they contribute to a wide range of projects across various disciplines. Take Marissa B. Garcia, for instance. This mechanical engineering student from the University of Texas at El Paso isn’t just attending classes. While working at the Marshall Space Flight Center, she’s putting her knowledge to practical use by designing and analyzing a crucial component—an avionics unit bracket for the Space Launch System (SLS) Payload Adapter. This exemplifies the real-world applications IEP offers.

Another example is Tanya Gupta, also a mechanical engineering student, but this time from New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering. Her contribution takes a different form. While Marissa focuses on designing parts for space travel, Tanya is leading operations as she serves as the Ops Lead on the PRANDTL-M (Preliminary Research Aerodynamic Design to Land on Mars) aircraft at Armstrong Flight Research Center. This revolutionary aircraft is aiming to achieve a historic feat: the first-ever Martian flight.

The program’s reach extends beyond designing and building spacecraft. It even cultivates future astronauts. Jessica Watkins and Loral O’Hara, both former interns at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, are testaments to this. Their hard work and talent were recognized in 2017 when they were selected for two of the highly competitive twelve astronaut positions. Their journey from interns to astronauts exemplifies the various career paths the NASA IEP program can open.

How to Apply to the NASA Pathways Intern Employment Program (IEP)?

First, you’ll need to be a U.S. citizen and at least 16 years old. Additionally, you must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree or certificate program, either currently or with acceptance secured. Academic achievement is important too, with a minimum GPA of 2.9 required.

The program also emphasizes commitment. You’ll need to be able to complete at least 640 hours of work before finishing your studies. There might be additional requirements depending on the specific position you’re interested in, as some IEP roles require students to pursue particular majors.

Unlike NASA’s high school internship program, IEP positions don’t follow a traditional schedule. Instead, they’re advertised just like regular jobs. So, if you’re interested, keep an eye on the NASA career website for openings.

To dig deeper, NASA offers a helpful webinar specifically about the IEP application process. This webinar provides an in-depth look at what you need to do to apply, introduces you to successful IEP participants, and shares valuable tips to help you put your best foot forward.

Tips to Apply to the NASA High School Internship and NASA IEP

Landing an internship at NASA requires a strong application that shows your qualifications and passion for space exploration. Here’s how to craft an application that will impress potential supervisors:

1. Double-check the essentials

It all starts with a polished presentation. Ensure your contact information is accurate and professional across all platforms. Use an email address that sounds professional (avoid nicknames or anything informal). Don’t forget to set up a professional voicemail greeting on your phone—it’s a small detail that can make a big difference. Finally, meticulously proofread your application for any spelling, punctuation, or grammatical errors. A flawless application demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.

2. Highlight relevant experience

Approach your NASA internship application with the same seriousness you would a job application. Lead with your most relevant academic and work experiences, carefully tailoring them to the specific internship you’re interested in. While unrelated work experiences may seem irrelevant at first glance, consider if they show transferable skills like teamwork, communication, or a strong work ethic. If these skills apply to the internship position, find a way to highlight them by creatively weaving your past experiences into your application.

3. Show your strengths with details

Don’t just list your qualifications; show them in action! Focus on the specific requirements outlined for the internship and demonstrate how your skills and experience align with those needs. Avoid generic statements and provide concrete details. The S.A.R. Method, which involves detailing a Situation, the Action you took, and the Result you achieved, allows you to provide specific examples of how you faced challenges and achieved positive outcomes. Using this method allows the selection committee to get a clear picture of your problem-solving abilities and how you might contribute to their team.

From the Desk of Yocket

The NASA internship program presents an opportunity for those with a passion for space and science. For ambitious high school juniors and seniors, it’s a chance to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting alongside NASA experts. Imagine contributing to real space exploration projects or working in scientific research alongside some of the brightest minds in the field. This program could solidify your career path or spark new interests while providing a significant edge on future college applications.

However, it’s important to remember that competition can be fierce. Building a strong application with relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, and a clear demonstration of your passion for science and space exploration will be crucial. Reach out to mentors or teachers for guidance, and don’t be discouraged if you don’t get selected on the first try. NASA receives applications from high-achieving students across the country. So, to increase your chances of landing a spot, it’s wise to start preparing early.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility criteria for the NASA High School Internship Program?

To apply for the NASA High School Internship Program, you must be a US citizen, at least 16 years old, and enrolled full-time in high school. You’ll also need a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a letter of recommendation.

Where can I apply for a NASA internship?

All applications are submitted through the NASA internship website. You can search for specific internship opportunities at NASA centers across the country that match your interests and skills.

Are NASA internships paid?

The majority of NASA internships are paid. The stipend amount varies depending on your academic level and the duration of your internship.

What kind of projects can I work on as a NASA intern?

There’s a wide range of projects available at NASA. These could involve engineering, science, communications, or even computer programming. The specific projects will depend on the NASA center and the internship you apply for.