High school internships offer students invaluable experiences that bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.

In Florida, a diverse range of opportunities allows students to explore various fields, build professional skills, and gain insight into potential career paths.

Whether you’re interested in science, technology, the arts, or community service, there’s an internship in Florida that can match your passions.

This guide will walk you through five standout opportunities, helping you find the perfect match to kickstart your career journey.

1. Mote Marine Laboratory High School Volunteer Program Overview: Located in Sarasota, Florida, the Mote Marine Laboratory offers a unique internship program for high school students interested in marine biology and environmental science.

The program provides students with the opportunity to work alongside scientists and researchers, gaining hands-on experience in marine research, conservation, and education.

Why It’s Valuable: This internship is ideal for students passionate about marine life and ocean conservation.

Interns have the chance to engage in real-world research projects, learn about marine ecosystems, and contribute to conservation efforts.

The experience also includes opportunities to participate in fieldwork, such as collecting data in the ocean or working with marine animals.

Application Process: Applicants must submit an application that includes a resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement explaining their interest in marine science.

The program is competitive, with a focus on students who have demonstrated a strong interest in marine biology and environmental science.

Duration: The Mote Marine Laboratory High School Internship typically runs for 8-10 weeks during the summer.

Interns work full-time at the laboratory, participating in research projects and educational activities.

What You’ll Learn: Marine research techniques and data analysis Understanding of marine ecosystems and conservation practices Hands-on experience with marine animals and habitats Networking with marine scientists and researchers

2. NASA OSTEM Internships Overview: The NASA Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral offers an internship program for high school students interested in space exploration, engineering, and technology.

This program provides students with the opportunity to work on space-related projects, collaborate with NASA scientists and engineers, and gain insight into the space industry.

Why It’s Valuable: This internship offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work at NASA and contribute to the future of space exploration.

Interns gain hands-on experience in various aspects of space science and technology, from engineering and robotics to mission planning and operations.

The program is ideal for students considering careers in aerospace, engineering, or space science.

Application Process: To apply, students must submit an online application that includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement.

The selection process is competitive, with a focus on students who have demonstrated academic excellence and a strong interest in space science.

Duration: NASA internships typically last for 10 weeks during the summer.

Interns work full-time at the Kennedy Space Center, participating in various projects and activities.

What You’ll Learn: Space science and engineering principles Hands-on experience with NASA projects and technologies Collaboration with NASA scientists and engineers Insight into careers in aerospace and space exploration

3. Florida State University Young Scholars Program Overview: The Florida State University Young Scholars Program (YSP) is a residential summer program for high-achieving high school students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Held on the FSU campus in Tallahassee, this program offers advanced coursework, hands-on research opportunities, and exposure to university-level STEM education.

Why It’s Valuable: YSP provides an intellectually stimulating environment where students can explore advanced STEM topics and develop their research skills.

Participants engage in hands-on projects, attend lectures by FSU faculty, and collaborate with peers who share their passion for science and technology.

The program also offers a taste of college life, as students live on campus and experience the academic rigor of a university setting.

Application Process: The application process for YSP is competitive and requires students to submit transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays.

The program seeks students who have demonstrated academic excellence in STEM subjects and have a strong interest in pursuing careers in science or engineering.

Duration: The Young Scholars Program is a six-week residential program held during the summer.

Students live on the FSU campus and participate in a full schedule of classes, research projects, and activities.

What You’ll Learn: Advanced STEM concepts and research methodologies Hands-on experience in scientific research and experimentation Collaboration with peers and faculty in a university setting Preparation for college-level STEM education

4. Ringling College of Art and Design PreCollege Program Overview: The Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota offers a PreCollege program for high school students interested in exploring careers in art and design.

This four-week residential program provides students with an immersive experience in various art disciplines, including illustration, animation, graphic design, and fine arts.

Participants take college-level courses, work on creative projects, and build a portfolio.

Why It’s Valuable: This program is perfect for students who are passionate about art and design and want to develop their skills in a professional setting.

Participants receive instruction from Ringling faculty, engage in creative exploration, and build a portfolio that can be used for college applications.

The program also provides insight into the art and design industry, helping students understand the different career paths available in this field.

Application Process: To apply, students must submit a portfolio, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

The program is competitive and looks for students who have demonstrated artistic talent and a commitment to pursuing a career in art or design.

Duration: The PreCollege program is a four-week residential program held during the summer at Ringling College of Art and Design.

Students live on campus and participate in a full schedule of classes, workshops, and studio time.

What You’ll Learn: Advanced art and design techniques Portfolio development and creative exploration Insight into careers in the art and design industry Networking with artists, designers, and faculty

5. Florida Aquarium Teen Volunteer Program Overview: The Florida Aquarium in Tampa offers a Teen Volunteer Program for high school students interested in marine biology, conservation, and environmental education.

This program provides students with the opportunity to work in a public aquarium, engage with visitors, and assist with animal care and conservation efforts.

Why It’s Valuable: This volunteer program is ideal for students passionate about marine life and conservation.

Participants gain hands-on experience in a public aquarium setting, learning about marine ecosystems, animal care, and conservation practices.

The program also emphasizes public education, as volunteers interact with visitors and help promote environmental awareness.

Application Process: Interested students must submit an application that includes a resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement explaining their interest in marine biology and conservation.

The program looks for students who are enthusiastic about marine life and have a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Duration: The Teen Volunteer Program runs year-round, with part-time opportunities available during the school year and full-time opportunities during the summer.

What You’ll Learn: Marine biology and conservation practices Animal care and husbandry techniques Public education and communication skills Insight into careers in marine biology and environmental conservation Conclusions If you would like to learn more about how to get internships, watch this video.

This guide from Rishab, a Harvard student, will help you land an internship https://www. youtube. com/watch?v=zqqtdxsCBT0&t=1s.