Senior Noah Parker sits in the flashy, revolving office chair, along with licensed physical therapists working for Launch Physical Therapy. In this professional environment, he gains valuable experience and information contributing to his future. The summer internship provides him with beneficial knowledge needed to take advantage of opportunities that lie ahead.
For students, internships provide an up-close view into the workplace and give them real work experience that prepares them for the professional world. Internships are one of, if not the most valuable opportunities for high school students. There are chances for students to get internships almost anywhere, and they open opportunities for the future. “I would 100% recommend that you look into an internship for whatever you are interested in doing later in life,” senior Lucas Sossa said.
Internships are a building block for potential lifelong jobs. In almost every internship there are possibilities for essential work experience and an in-depth look into the student’s industry of choice. They allow students to see if what they are thinking is the right fit for them through a sample job. “Being with all of these professionals, I really feel like I can work with them soon enough,” Parker said.
Not only do internships provide students with the experience to succeed, but they also provide valuable connections. It is the most effective way to both achieve work experience and get your name across the industry for possible chances for a job. “My summer internship has given me the chance to meet many of the company workers, and it could be great for the future because they know me and can see my work ethic through this opportunity,” Sossa said.
Students should have internships in a list of their plans for high school. In addition to the other benefits, internships show colleges a student’s work ethic and drive to succeed. College Board mentions internships as a huge bonus on any college application. They show your interest in progressing yourself and your knowledge by doing the extra work for the sheer development of your ability. According to an article from the College Board, “Working as an intern shows you’re interested in taking on responsibility and learning new things.”
Internships may even provide a paid spot for their high school interns. With some students getting paid in addition to the other advantages, they have that edge over a normal job for students.
