7 Best Graphic Design Internships for High School Students
Do you have an eye for design? Maybe you love creating logos, posters, or eye-catching social media graphics? If so, then graphic design might be the perfect fit for you! And guess what? You don’t have to wait until college to get started. There are hundreds of enriching graphic design internships out there, specifically designed for high school students.
In this blog, we’ll share the 10 best graphic design internships for high school students. We’ll share internships for all interests, from working with nonprofits to designing for local businesses. We’ll also explore internships for all experience levels, from those just starting their design journey to those ready to take on more challenging projects.
Benefits of Graphic Design Internships for High School Students
A graphic design internship can give you a significant advantage as you pursue a career in this creative field. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Build a portfolio: A strong portfolio is essential for any aspiring graphic designer. Internships provide opportunities to work on real-world projects that you can show to potential employers or colleges.
- Develop practical skills: In the classroom, you learn the theory behind design. Internships allow you to apply that knowledge in a practical setting, using design software and collaborating with professionals.
- Explore your interests: The design field is broad. Internships can help you discover what kind of graphic design you enjoy most, whether it’s web design, branding, or something entirely else.
- Gain industry experience: Internships expose you to professional graphic design. You’ll learn about deadlines, client communication, and the overall design workflow.
- Network with professionals: Internships are a great way to meet people in the design industry. These connections can be valuable resources as you look for future opportunities.
- Boost your resume: Even a short internship can make a big difference on your resume, especially when compared to other high school students.
The 7 Best Graphic Design Internships for High School Students
1. Yocket High School Summer Internship
With Yocket’s competitive High School Summer Internship program, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience in graphic design and work on real-world projects like web design or animation techniques. This 4-week virtual program offers exclusive mentorship from industry experts to help you build a standout college application and professional profile.
Weekly mentorship sessions, practice assessments, an official recommendation letter, and a director-signed certificate will solidify your achievements. With limited spots for only 50 students, apply now and join a global network of peers taking their first steps towards success. This intensive program requires a 10-hour weekly commitment but the investment in your future is invaluable.
2. Inspirit AI Art + AI Program
Inspirit AI’s Art + AI program combines artificial intelligence and artistic expression. High school participants will learn about AI and work on its creative potential by building projects like sketch recognition programs. Students also grapple with the ethical implications of AI in the art world, ensuring they can be responsible users of this powerful technology.
This program builds on InspiritAI’s core mission: empowering high schoolers to use AI and computer science across various disciplines. Through project-based learning, students are encouraged to follow their passions and use AI to create socially impactful projects in any field they choose.
3. Disney Animation Studios High School Art Internship
The Disney Animation Studios High School Art Internship is an experience where you’ll collaborate alongside seasoned Disney artists. You’ll learn the science behind animation techniques, character design, and the art of storytelling that brings Disney’s films to life.
You won’t just be learning; you’ll also be contributing to real projects, gaining invaluable firsthand experience of the creative process behind your favorite animated classics. This internship is your chance to see the magic firsthand and take a step toward your animation career.
4. Cooper Hewitt DesignPrep Program
The Cooper Hewitt DesignPrep Program is a free initiative designed to introduce high school students in New York City to the exciting world of design careers. Through a series of hands-on workshops, students get to learn from professional designers and work on real-world design challenges.
The program also includes portfolio development sessions. It helps students translate their newfound skills and creativity into strong portfolios that can impress colleges and future employers. By combining practical experience with exposure to various design disciplines, DesignPrep fosters a love of design and innovation in young minds.
5. Expanding Horizons Internship Program
The Expanding Horizons Internship Program (EHI) is a program designed to help first-generation college-bound high school students in Los Angeles. It offers them a chance to develop important skills and gain personal growth through a combination of seminars and a paid summer internship. EHI focuses on preparing students for college, future careers, and civic engagement.
The program targets sophomores and juniors attending Title I schools in Los Angeles who meet certain eligibility requirements. Throughout the program, students participate in interactive seminars during the spring semester and then transition to a paid internship placement.
6. Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)
The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is a program aimed at connecting young people in New York City with paid summer work opportunities and career exploration in various fields, including graphic design. It’s designed to benefit both the young participants and the organizations they work for.
Young people between 14 and 24 years old are eligible to participate. Through SYEP, they can gain valuable work experience, develop important skills for future careers, and even explore different career paths they might be interested in. The program also provides them with a chance to earn money during the summer months.
7. Google Doodle Contest
The Google Doodle Contest is your chance to turn your artistic vision into a global phenomenon. This annual competition invites high school students to design unique doodles for the Google homepage based on themes that resonate with the world. Not only can winners see their artwork displayed for millions to see, but they’ll also be rewarded with scholarships and tech packages, all while gaining recognition for their artistic talent on an international scale.
From the Desk of Yocket
Graphic design internships are opportunities for high school students passionate about visual communication. It’s a chance to gain practical experience in a creative field and get a head start on a design career. Internships allow you to learn industry-standard software, collaborate with experienced designers, and see how design principles are applied to real-world projects. This exposure can be invaluable in refining your skills, building your portfolio, and solidifying your interest in the field.
However, it’s important to remember that internships are often unpaid or minimally paid. So, your main focus should be on learning and gaining experience. Be prepared to take on entry-level tasks and soak up knowledge from professionals. This early exposure can help you decide if graphic design is the right path for you and give you a competitive edge when applying to colleges or future design jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of experience can I expect to gain from a graphic design internship?
You’ll get hands-on experience with design software, work on real-world projects, and learn from professional designers. Internships can also help you develop soft skills like communication, collaboration, and time management.
What should I include in my application for a graphic design internship?
Tailor your resume and cover letter to each opportunity. Highlight your design skills, relevant coursework, and any personal projects. Most importantly, include a strong portfolio showing your best work.
What are some essential skills to develop before starting a graphic design internship?
Brush up on design principles like color theory and typography. Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Build your portfolio with personal projects or volunteer work.