Expert at Aristotle Center Answers Summer Internship Questions for High School Students

Navigating and succeeding in the world of summer internships as a high school student can seem daunting at times. Neal Waldman, summer programs expert at Aristotle Circle, a national company offering expertise in getting children into the best schools, from kindergarten to college, offers some tips in this Q & A session.

When should I begin looking for an internship?

Most students will begin looking for summer internships during the winter of the academic year, but some firms won't be taking applications until the spring. Students should research where they would like to intern and gain an understanding of when companies or organizations fill internship positions.

What is a good checklist to keep in mind when applying to internships?

• Have references available.
• Research the organization so you are prepared for an interview.
• Keep your Facebook page and all your social media professional.
• Use a professional sounding email address.
• Use your network to find organizations where you may know someone.

As an application deadline approaches, what should I keep in mind?

Make sure the organization knows you are interested but don't be a pest.

What are the benefits of doing a summer internship as a high school student? Are there any drawbacks?

Benefits

• An internship may help build your college application profile.
• You will gain experience working in a professional environment.
• This is an opportunity to explore a field on interest.

Drawbacks

• You may be doing menial work.
• Evaluate other summer opportunities and remember that you are only a teenager once!

What industries typically provide the most fruitful summer internships for high school students?

The possibilities are endless and research is the key. Some fields will be more limiting by their design. If you are interested in medicine, for example, find a placement where you can observe and learn but be aware that your hands-on options are fewer.

As a high school student with little to no work experience, what are the most important things to highlight on a resume?

Your experience is greater than just your work experience. Emphasize clubs, AP classes and leadership positions at school or other organizations.

If I have no connection to a particular field but I am very interested in it, is there any way to stand out?

Take a class in the field of interest, join a related club and/or pay a visit to a potential organization to understand how you might help them.

What are some ways that I can keep good notes and records during the summer internship that will help me use them for a college application?

Keep a journal, note your successes and failures and be aware of confidential materials.

What is your advice for students who want work experience but don't know what they would like to do?

Pick a field you want to learn about and "try it on" for the summer.

I have to work during my summer--how can I make a summer job at the ice cream shop look good on a college application?

Work experience can always be used to enhance your profile. Identify the skills you learned and brought to your work experience and state how the opportunity influenced your future.

My grades weren't the greatest this year---how significantly will that hurt my chances of gaining a coveted internship?

Some internship applications will ask for grades, others will not. Do not be discouraged; just make sure you find an organization that understands your skill set. Again, as always, research is the key.

ABOUT ARISTOTLE CIRCLE

Aristotle Circle is an innovative advisory service that unlocks the power and passion of students by delivering personal, actionable and superior guidance and educational support. Helping children succeed is core to Aristotle Circle's business.