10 Best STEM Internships for High School Students in the USA
Are you curious about how the science experiment you aced in class translates to the real world? Maybe you’re passionate about advanced technology and want to see how the latest gadgets are designed.
If you’re a high school student with a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), then an internship could be your chance to have an incredible summer experience. In this blog, we’ll share 10 exciting STEM internship opportunities across the country, designed to spark your curiosity, develop your skills, and maybe even solidify your future career path!
Why Should You Do Internships in High School?
In short, internships in high school are a win-win. You’ll gain valuable experience, build your network, and get a clearer picture of your future career path. Here’s a glimpse of why you should strongly consider doing an internship in high school:
1. Discover your passions (and dislikes)
Internships provide hands-on experience in a field that interests you. By getting involved, you can see if the daily realities of that career path align with your expectations. This early exploration can save you time and effort in the long run.
2. Build valuable skills
In internships, you’ll gain practical skills directly related to your field of interest. This could involve communication, problem-solving, or technical abilities. These skills are highly sought after by colleges and employers alike.
3. Make connections
The people you meet during your internship can become valuable contacts in the future. They can provide guidance, write and give recommendation letter samples, or even connect you with future job opportunities.
4. Get a head start
Internships allow you to apply what you learn in the classroom to real-world scenarios. This can solidify your understanding of the subject and make you a more well-rounded student.
5. Boost your college applications
Colleges love to see students who take initiative and explore their academic interests. A strong internship experience can set your application apart from the competition.
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Top 10 STEM Internships for High Schoolers in the USA
1. Yocket High School Summer Internship Program
The Yocket High School Summer Internship is a 4-week virtual program designed to propel you into STEM fields. You’ll gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or other advanced areas. Under the guidance of expert mentors, you’ll not only learn about these fascinating subjects but also learn how to translate your learning into projects that impress colleges and potential employers.
This program goes beyond technical skills. It offers a holistic experience with weekly mentorship sessions, practice assessments to judge your progress, an official letter of recommendation to strengthen your college application process, and a director-signed certificate to show your accomplishment. With limited spots available for only 50 students and applications for college scholarship are closing soon, this is your chance to join a global network of ambitious peers and take the first step toward a bright future in STEM.
2. Meta Summer Academy
Meta Summer Academy, formerly known as Facebook Summer Academy, is a great opportunity for high school sophomores. The students of East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, North Fair Oaks, or Redwood City can learn about the tech industry and practical work experience and get a behind-the-scenes look at the world’s leading social media company’s daily functions. The program is designed to provide students with a well-rounded experience, including technical skill development, professional development workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
2. Microsoft Discovery Program
The Microsoft Discovery Program is the perfect opportunity for you to jumpstart your tech career! This four-week internship program, running from July to August, will provide you with the foundational skills you need to thrive in the tech industry. You’ll learn the fundamentals of programming under the guidance of experienced Microsoft mentors. The program provides a supportive environment where you can learn, grow, and network with industry professionals.
To be eligible, you must be at least 16 years old and on track to graduate high school as a senior. Additionally, you’ll need to have successfully completed a pre-calculus program to show your aptitude for math and problem-solving. The program requires full-time commitment during the four-week duration, and as a participant, you will be compensated for your time and dedication.
3. Los Alamos National Laboratory’s High School Internship Program
The High School Internship Program (HSIP) is an opportunity for qualified high school seniors in northern New Mexico to gain valuable work experience. The program offers internships across various industries, including STEM fields like science, technology, engineering, and math. There are two application periods throughout the year. The deadline to apply for fall and spring internships is December 31st, while the summer internship application deadline falls on April 11th.
To be eligible for HSIP, you must be a high school senior with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. You’ll also need to be at least 16 years old by the internship start date and pass a pre-employment drug test.
4. J. Craig Venter Institute Internship Program
The JCVI Program is a prestigious internship opportunity designed to cultivate the next generation of scientific leaders. This highly sought-after program provides exceptional high school students with research experience over a 10- to 15-week period, typically held during the summer months.
Throughout the program, interns will be paired with a dedicated mentor who will guide and support them throughout their research journey. This mentorship fosters a collaborative environment where interns have the opportunity to network and learn from scientists. Interns will be actively involved in research projects that align with their academic backgrounds and interests. The program offers access to advanced equipment and technology, allowing interns to gain hands-on experience with the latest advancements in the field. To show their research findings and compete for recognition, interns will conclude the program by presenting their work at a judged poster session.
5. Broad Summer Scholars Program (BSSP)
The Broad Summer Scholars Program is a six-week program that runs from June through August. It provides an opportunity for highly motivated Massachusetts high school students to explore the world of science. Participants are matched with advanced research projects in a variety of exciting fields, including cancer biology, psychiatric disease, chemical biology, computational biology, and infectious disease. Throughout the program, students will gain valuable research experience and also explore potential career paths within the vast field of science.
To be eligible for the Broad Summer Scholars Program, students must be on track to be seniors in the upcoming fall and have a strong academic record with a B or better in science and math classes. Additionally, students must reside within commuting distance of the Broad Institute. The program offers a competitive stipend of $3,600 and partial reimbursement for travel expenses to help offset program costs.
Read also: 11 Best Medical Internships for High School Students
6. George Mason University’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program
The Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program is offered by George Mason University. If you are chosen, you will get to work alongside university faculty on real research projects across various scientific disciplines. The program runs for eight weeks, from June to August, and offers flexible work arrangements. You can choose to participate in person, remotely, or even a combination of both.
While the internship is unpaid, it’s a valuable chance to gain firsthand experience in a research setting while getting a taste of the college environment. It’s one of the few programs that bridges the gap between academic learning and professional research. To be eligible, you must be at least 15 years old by the internship start date if you’ll be working in computer labs. If you’re interested in working in wet labs, the minimum age requirement is 16.
7. Maine Space Grant Consortium
The Maine Space Grant Consortium is a great opportunity for Maine high school juniors interested in STEM fields! This six-week internship program places students with various host organizations across the state. Each internship will offer experiences depending on the host’s area of expertise.
To be eligible, you’ll need to be a current junior with a strong academic record, ideally demonstrated by a weighted GPA of 4.0 or higher. Additionally, a passion for STEM is a must. The program requires a full-time commitment, so be prepared to work from Monday to Friday throughout the internship duration.
8. Internships at NASA
NASA internships offer an incredible chance to be involved in groundbreaking research alongside experienced NASA professionals. These sought-after positions are available during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. However, it’s important to note that internship opportunities for high school students are limited to specific NASA centers.
The application process is competitive, so be sure to submit your application well in advance of the deadlines. Deadlines typically fall in early November for Spring internships, early March for Summer internships, and early July for Fall internships. Internship durations also vary by semester, with Spring and Fall semesters offering internships lasting 16 weeks, while Summer internships are typically 10 weeks long.
To qualify for a NASA internship, you must be at least 16 years old and possess a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or an unweighted GPA of 3.0). A strong letter of recommendation is also a crucial part of your application package, so be sure to secure one before applying.
9. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is a paid engineering internship program designed specifically for high school students passionate about research. Over the summer, interns will participate in an intensive eight-week program with the possibility of extending for an additional two weeks.
Selection for this competitive program is based on a combination of factors, including your academic achievements, personal statements, teacher recommendations, and a clear demonstration of your interest in both engineering and research. The program has opportunities across various locations within the nation. If you’re a high school student currently in ninth grade and will be 16 years old by the internship start date, you may be eligible to apply.
10. Spark Summer Internship Program
Spark is a Seattle-based organization that connects high school students with exciting internship opportunities. They focus heavily on STEM fields, but they also offer projects in other areas. You’ll have the chance to work alongside industry experts, educators, and mentors from a variety of organizations throughout the city.
Here’s the exciting part: you can apply for up to five different projects through a single, streamlined online application! This gives you a great chance to find the perfect internship that aligns with your interests. However, it’s important to note that the specific requirements for each internship will vary depending on the partnering organization.
Read also: Top 11 Business Internships for High School Students
How to Apply for STEM Internships?
Step 1: Target your search
Identify your STEM interests (e.g., robotics, environmental science, software engineering). Research companies, universities, and government agencies known for work in those areas. Utilize online resources or your university career center to find relevant opportunities.
Step 2: Craft a resume and cover letter
Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework, projects, and skills for each internship. Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., “Increased efficiency by 15%”). In your cover letter, show your passion for STEM and explain why you’re a perfect fit for the specific internship.
Step 3: Application materials
Read the application instructions carefully. Pay attention to deadlines and required documents like transcripts or reference letters. Many internships involve essays or short answer questions. Here, show your knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to contribute to the project.
Step 4: Prepare for the interview
Research the company and the internship thoroughly. Anticipate common STEM interview questions and practice your responses. Highlight your technical skills and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Be prepared to ask insightful questions about the internship and the company’s work.
Step 5: Follow up
Send a thank-you email to the interviewer(s) within 24 hours, reiterating your interest in the internship. This shows your professionalism and enthusiasm.
Read also: 25 Summer Leadership Programs for High School Students
Impact of STEM Internships on College Admissions
STEM internships can significantly impact your college admissions, particularly at selective colleges. With a large pool of academically qualified candidates, admissions officers rely heavily on extracurricular activities and essays to identify students who truly shine and show a strong fit for their institution.
Standing out in a crowded field
Admissions officers value impressive and unique extracurricular. They categorize these activities into tiers (1-4), with Tier 1 being the most prestigious (think national awards). STEM internships can range from Tier 1 to Tier 3, depending on the program’s selectivity and reputation:
- Tier 1: Highly competitive internships at top organizations (NASA, renowned research institutions).
- Tier 2: Regional internships at esteemed organizations (Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program).
- Tier 3: Local internships with reputable companies or research groups.
Demonstrated passion and initiative
A STEM internship shows your genuine interest and initiative in science, technology, engineering, or math. This is far more impactful than simply listing good grades in these subjects. The internship allows you to translate classroom knowledge into real-world applications, making your passion more tangible.
Developing skills
Internships provide opportunities to develop critical skills like problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and time management. These are all highly sought after by colleges and employers alike. An internship allows you to demonstrate these skills in action, not just on paper.
Building a strong profile
A well-crafted internship experience can strengthen your college application profile. You can use your essay to discuss the challenges you faced, the skills you developed, and the impact your work had. This allows you to present a well-rounded picture of yourself beyond just test scores and grades.
Read also: Top 11 Computer Science Internships for High School Students
From the Desk of Yocket
STEM internships for high school students offer a chance to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Unlike textbooks and lectures, internships provide hands-on experience. This could involve anything from designing a new product to conducting scientific research. By seeing how the concepts you’re learning are used in practice, you can solidify your understanding and potentially discover a deeper passion for a particular STEM field.
These internships also help with career exploration. A student considering medicine might discover the realities of the job through a hospital internship. On the other hand, an internship could solidify a strong interest and guide future studies. Beyond exploration, internships develop valuable professional skills like workplace culture, communication, and teamwork. You might even learn about industry-specific software or participate in research projects. These skills are highly sought after by colleges and future employers. Finally, internships help build a network of professional contacts—scientists, engineers, and mentors—who can provide valuable advice and recommendations. Yocket can also assist in finding and applying for these internships, further supporting students in their career development.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the application process for STEM internships for high school students?
The application process typically involves submitting a resume, cover letter, transcript, and sometimes an essay or reference letter. Some programs may also require an interview.
2. When should I start applying for STEM internships as a high school student?
Start researching internships early in your junior year. Application deadlines can vary, but many programs have winter or early spring deadlines.
3. What are the benefits of a STEM internship in high school?
STEM internships offer a chance to gain practical experience in a field you’re interested in, develop professional skills, and learn from experts. They can also boost your college applications and future job prospects.