22 Best Internships for High School Students in NYC

Living in NYC means you are surrounded by endless possibilities. For high school students, this can include starting your career exploration early through an internship! Internships offer invaluable experiences that go beyond textbooks. They allow you to test the waters in a field you’re interested in, develop new skills, and build connections that could shape your future.

But with so many options, where do you even begin? This blog shares the 22 best internships for high school students in NYC, spanning a range of exciting fields. From art and history at renowned museums to exploring advanced science or even getting a taste of the legal system, we’ve got you covered.

Benefits of Internships for High School Students in NYC

Doing an internship in NYC as a high school student can be an incredible head start for your future. An internship in NYC can be a transformative experience. It will give you a taste of the professional world, build skills, and set you on the right path for the future. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Explore your passions: NYC offers internships in every field imaginable. It allows you to test the waters in an area you’re interested in. Whether it’s fashion design, environmental science, or investment banking, you can gain firsthand knowledge and see if it aligns with your interests.

• Develop valuable skills: You’ll get to put your classroom skills to work, learning things like research, data analysis, or project management. These are practical skills that will benefit you in college and in future jobs.

• Build your network: NYC is a hub for professionals, and internships can open doors to valuable connections. You’ll meet mentors, colleagues, and potential future employers who can provide guidance and opportunities down the road.

• Boost your college applications: Colleges love to see students taking initiative. A strong internship on your resume shows your commitment, curiosity, and ability to sustain yourself in a professional setting.

• Experience the city: Working in NYC allows you to experience the city beyond its tourist attractions. You’ll learn to navigate the subway system, discover hidden spots in your neighborhood, and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s culture.

The 22 Best Internships for High School Students in NYC

1. Yocket High School Summer Internship Program

The Yocket High School Summer Internship is a 4-week virtual program that isn’t limited to just one field. You can explore a variety of fields and gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects. Whether you’re interested in engineering, business, or even creative writing, Yocket offers an internship to jumpstart your path. You will gain valuable skills under the guidance of expert mentors who will support you from project development to crafting a standout college application.

But the benefits go beyond just the internship itself. Weekly mentorship sessions, practice assessments to hone your skills, and an official letter of recommendation will strengthen your academic profile. You’ll even receive a director-signed certificate to show your accomplishment. With limited spots available for only the most ambitious students and scholarship applications closing soon, this is your chance to join a global network and take the first step toward a bright future.

2. Alley Pond Field Biology Internship (FBI)

The Alley Pond Field Biology Internship (FBI) is a six-week program designed for high school students passionate about sustainability, environmental science, biology, or natural sciences. It offers a blend of classroom learning and hands-on fieldwork within the diverse ecosystems of Alley Pond Park and surrounding areas in Queens, NYC.

Through the program, students will gain valuable STEM skills while learning about local wildlife and habitats. They’ll build a strong foundation in research and experiment design and develop essential soft skills like public speaking, communication, and teamwork. While the program is not paid for, there is a $150 participation fee.

3. Apollo Theater Academy Technical Stage Production Internship Program

The Apollo Theater Academy Technical Stage Production Internship Program is a paid six-week program designed for rising seniors. This experience provides interns with valuable hands-on training alongside Apollo’s professional production crew.

Throughout the program, interns will work on the technical aspects of stage production. You will gain practical knowledge in lighting design, videography, audio engineering, and production design. You can expect to earn $15 an hour.

4. Apollo Theater Academy Arts Administration Internship Program

The Apollo Theater Academy offers an internship program for current high school seniors with a passion for live and recorded productions. This ten-week paid program provides an experience in arts administration at a historic venue. Throughout the internship, interns will gain a deep understanding of how arts administration impacts both live and recorded productions at the Apollo Theater.

This knowledge will be put into action as interns collaborate to develop a concept for the theater’s signature summer event, Teen Takeover. The internship offers a competitive hourly wage of $15. Working hours typically run from 3 pm to 6 pm, with some flexibility for special events.

5. Brooklyn Museum Apprentice Program

The Brooklyn Museum Apprentice Program is an opportunity for NYC high school students to learn about art, history, and museum education. Over an 8-month term or a condensed summer session, apprentices will get hands-on experience by assisting with family programs, leading tours, and even teaching summer camp groups.

Interns also have the chance to meet curators and dig deeper into the Museum’s incredible collections. The program offers paid positions ($15/hour for first-timers and $16/hour for returning apprentices) with the flexibility to work up to 180 hours per year and even provides a MetroCard to ease transportation.

6. DOROT Academic Year Teen Internship Program

DOROT’s Academic Year Teen Internship Program offers Upper Manhattan high schoolers the chance to connect with older adults throughout the school year. This special program fosters intergenerational relationships through a variety of engaging activities, including discussion groups, playing chess, and even home visits.

Teen interns typically volunteer one afternoon a week and gain valuable communication and leadership skills while giving back to their community. Participation also allows them to earn service hours.

7. DOROT Summer Teen Internship Program

The DOROT Summer Teen Internship Program is a chance for high school students to make a positive impact. Interns will spend three weeks engaging with older adults and helping them combat social isolation. It is a serious issue with negative mental and physical health consequences. 

Through activities like discussion groups, home visits, and creative arts programs, interns will build vital social connections with these older adults. The program is offered in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Suffolk County, with specific details varying by location.

8. Futures and Options Internship Program

The Futures and Options Internship Program is an opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to earn valuable work experience and career development skills. Interns partner with a variety of businesses based on their interests and get hands-on experience while earning at least $15 an hour.

The program offers two tracks: a 15-week program during the school year with a 5–10 hour weekly commitment, and a six-week summer program with a 20–30 hour weekly commitment. All interns benefit from workshops on communication, resume writing, interviewing, and financial literacy. It gives them a well-rounded foundation for future career success.

9. Ladder Internship Program

Ladder Internships offer an opportunity to get hands-on experience at a startup. Ladder connects you with high-growth startups across various industries, from tech and AI/ML to healthcare, marketing, and more. These are ambitious companies, often led by experienced founders who are Y Combinator alumni, have raised over $30 million in funding, or previously worked at tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and Facebook.

The program is flexible with your schedule. Choose an internship that fits your needs, with deadlines spread throughout the year and the option to work remotely. Internships typically last 8 weeks, with a commitment of 10–20 hours per week. Even gap-year students can participate!

10. Ladders for Leaders

Ladders for Leaders is a program administered by the New York Department of Youth and Community Development. It offers paid summer internships to high school and college students aged 16–24 in New York City. Interns earn a minimum of $16 per hour and gain valuable work experience with leading businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies.

To be eligible, students must be NYC residents authorized to work in the city and have prior volunteer or work experience. The program prepares participants for success through pre-employment training and continues to support them after the internship with post-internship opportunities and networking events.

11. Manhattan District Attorney’s Office High School Internship Program

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office offers a five-week summer internship program for current Manhattan high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. This program is your chance to get valuable firsthand experience in the criminal justice system. Through workshops, discussions, and interaction with staff, interns get an insider’s look at the workings of the DA’s office. On top of gaining practical knowledge, interns are also compensated a minimum wage for their time and commitment to the program.

12. Memorial Sloan Kettering Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (HOPP)

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) offers an eight-week summer program for high school students interested in exploring careers in biomedical research. Participants will work alongside a dedicated mentor who supervises their development of research skills and guides them through an independent research project directly related to the mentor’s ongoing work.

HOPP provides enriching activities like tours, training sessions, and team-building exercises to give students a well-rounded experience. To be eligible, students must be at least in 9th grade with a strong science background (minimum 3.5 GPA in science subjects), and the program even offers a stipend to compensate participants for their time.

13. NASA’s Center Internships

NASA provides exciting internship opportunities for high school students across various locations throughout the year. These internships are open to current sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and who are at least 16 years old.

Internship programs are offered not just at NASA’s main centers but also at partner institutions like the CUNY New York City College of Technology and the Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York City. The application deadlines and durations vary depending on the specific program, so interested students should actively research opportunities that align with their interests and availability.

14. NYU Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) program

NYU’s Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) program offers an opportunity for NYC sophomores and juniors interested in STEM fields. This seven-week summer program goes beyond a typical internship. While it provides a stipend of $750 (with additional financial aid potentially available), ARISE focuses on immersing students in real research alongside NYU faculty and graduate students.

Participants gain hands-on experience in labs, attend workshops to strengthen research and presentation skills and receive college application guidance. By the end, students will have a deeper understanding of scientific inquiry, research methods, and their potential paths in STEM careers.

15. New York City School Construction Authority (SCA) Summer Internship Program

The New York City School Construction Authority (SCA) offers a six-week summer internship program for high school students. This program is designed to expose participants to a variety of career paths within the realm of building and development, including architecture, engineering, construction management, information technology, business, and public administration.

Accepted interns will gain hands-on experience by working alongside professionals four days a week. To complement this practical experience, interns will also dedicate one day each week to educational programming that may include design challenges, panel discussions with industry leaders, and even tours of active construction sites. Throughout the program, interns will be expected to contribute 30 hours weekly and will be compensated at a competitive rate of $16 per hour.

16. New York Historical Society Student Historian Internship Program

The New York Historical Society’s Student Historian Internship Program is a five-week summer program where you can study a historical topic that sparks your passion. You can work alongside historian mentors, explore the city’s rich archives, and even lead tours through the Society’s galleries. The program culminates in the creation of your own digital project. This allows you to show your research and historical insights creatively.

This program is open to high school students entering grades 10–12 who live and attend school within the five boroughs of New York City. While the internship is primarily unpaid, a stipend is available to some students with demonstrated financial need.

17. NYC Parks Internships

NYC Parks offers an opportunity for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the city’s green spaces. It is available throughout the year, with durations varying depending on the specific program. These internships are ideal for anyone passionate about the environment and eager to gain experience in the public sector.

The diverse range of positions allows you to tailor your experience to your interests. From coordinating events and meetings as a Benefits Administrative Intern to tagging fish and turtles for the Habitat Connectivity in Salt Marshes Internship, there’s an opportunity to contribute to the city’s vibrant park system in a way that aligns with your goals.

18. The Ranger Conservation Corps Internship

The Ranger Conservation Corps Internship is an eight-week session (either fall or spring) where you’ll work alongside Urban Park Rangers on restoration projects in NYC’s iconic parks. This is a hands-on experience where you might even find yourself canoeing across a lake or camping under the stars during exciting field trips.

The program is flexible too, with a commitment of just one day a week for 2–2.5 hours. Plus, the Park Rangers will work with you to find a schedule and location that fits your needs, making it a perfect way to get experience while managing other obligations.

19. The Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) at the American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History’s Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) is a chance for NYC high school students to gain hands-on research experience alongside Museum scientists. This year-long program offers students a paid opportunity (a stipend of $2,500 awarded upon completion) to work on real scientific inquiry.

Depending on the chosen project, students might find themselves analyzing data from telescopes, working in a lab with DNA, or even learning to code and analyze data using Python and R. SRMP also provides valuable exposure to scientific careers and fosters presentation skills through monthly advisory sessions.

20. Thurgood Marshall Summer Law Internship Program

The Thurgood Marshall Summer Law Internship Program is a chance for high school students in NYC’s public schools to explore a legal career. Running for six to eight weeks, the program places diverse students with employers in the legal field, giving them a firsthand look at what lawyers and legal professionals actually do.

Interns work 35–40 hours a week and can expect to gain experience through tasks like answering phones, filing documents, and assisting paralegals. This is a paid internship with a minimum wage of $15 an hour, and some interns have even earned up to $21 an hour in the past.

21. Wave Hill Forest Project

Wave Hill’s Forest Project offers a paid summer internship for NYC residents aged 16 and up. This program is perfect for students who are passionate about the environment and want to get hands-on experience in ecological restoration and urban ecology.

Throughout the summer, interns will be actively involved in important tasks like building and maintaining woodland trails, removing invasive plant species that threaten the natural ecosystem, and stabilizing eroded slopes. The program provides valuable field experience, compensates interns $2,275, and grants them credit equivalent to one college course.

22. Zuckerman Institute Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia University (BRAINYAC)

The Zuckerman Institute’s Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia University, or BRAINYAC for short, offer an opportunity for high school students to gain hands-on experience in neuroscience research at a prestigious university lab. Through a combination of winter/spring training sessions and a full-time summer internship, BRAINYAC participants get valuable insights into scientific discovery and how research is conducted.

However, it’s important to note that applying directly isn’t possible. Students must be nominated by one of the program’s partner organizations located in New York City, which include S-PREP, Lang Youth Medical, Double Discovery Center, Columbia Secondary School, and BioBus.

From the Desk of the Yocket

The best internship for a high school student in NYC depends entirely on your interests and goals. It allows you to explore a career path you’re curious about, gain practical skills, and build a network of professionals.

NYC offers a lot of opportunities across various fields. For science enthusiasts, internships at NASA’s Goddard Institute or research programs at the American Museum of Natural History provide hands-on experience in advanced fields. For those drawn to the corporate arena, internships at tech startups or established firms can provide insights into business operations, marketing strategies, or the fast-paced world of finance.

Budding artists might find their perfect fit at a renowned museum like the Brooklyn Museum, where they can assist with curatorial work or learn about arts administration. Aspiring journalists might find an internship at the Paley Center for Media, doing podcasts about the impact of media. Students passionate about social justice could gain experience working at non-profit organizations like DOROT, working on issues like poverty or senior isolation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the best internships for high school students in NYC?

There are many great internship opportunities across various fields in NYC. Popular options include finance, tech, non-profits, and government agencies. Look for internships that align with your interests and career goals.

How can I find an internship in NYC?

Several resources can help you find an internship in NYC. Look on online job boards, connect with your school’s career center, and explore programs offered by professional organizations in your field of interest.

What are some tips for getting an internship in NYC?

Start your search early to have the most options. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for each specific internship. Prepare for interviews by researching the company and practicing your communication skills.