Why Internships and Work Experience Matter for High School Students

Internships and work experience are invaluable opportunities for high school students to gain exposure to the working world and prepare for their future careers. While many students may be tempted to spend their summers lounging around or engaging in leisure activities, taking on an internship or job can provide them with invaluable experience that can set them up for success in the future. Here are some of the reasons why internships and work experience matter for high school students:

• Develop Professional Skills: Participating in an internship or job provides students with the opportunity to develop and refine their professional skills. This includes things like communication, time management, problem-solving, and teamwork. These skills are not only valuable in the workplace but also in everyday life, and they can be transferred to future jobs or academic endeavors.

• Explore Career Interests: Internships and work experience also allow students to explore their career interests and gain a better understanding of what they might want to pursue in the future. By working in a specific field, students can get a firsthand look at the day-to-day operations, responsibilities, and skills required in that industry.

• Gain a Competitive Edge: When it comes time to apply for colleges or jobs, students with work experience and internships on their resumes have a competitive edge over those who do not. Employers and admissions officers value applicants who have shown initiative and a willingness to learn through work experience, and they often view this as a sign of maturity and responsibility.

• Build a Network: Internships and jobs also provide students with the opportunity to build a professional network. This network can be invaluable when it comes time to look for future employment, as it can lead to job opportunities or even mentorship.

• Earn Money: Internships and jobs allow students to earn money and gain financial independence. This can be especially valuable for students who are preparing for college or are interested in saving for the future.

Traditional schools often have limited resources and opportunities for students to gain work experience or internships. Most schools focus primarily on academic achievement, and while they may offer some extracurricular activities, they often do not have the resources to offer comprehensive job training or work experience programs. Additionally, the school year may not align with typical internship or work schedules, making it difficult for students to participate in these opportunities during the school year.

Private and online schools, on the other hand, can offer a more flexible and individualized approach to education that can better accommodate work experience and internship opportunities. These schools often have more resources to offer specialized training programs or connections to businesses in various industries.

At Pathways Early College Academy, students have the opportunity to gain work experience throughout the school year. Through our Symposiums, students meet twice per week to build projects, expand their network, and experience professional mentorship. These hands-on learning opportunities throughout the year help students build skills and projects that will help them to succeed beyond their peers by the time they graduate high school.

Internships and work experience are incredibly valuable for high school students. Not only do they provide an opportunity to develop professional skills and explore career interests, but they also give students a competitive edge, help them build a network, and allow them to earn money. If you're a high school student, consider taking on an internship or job this summer - it just might set you up for success in the future.