15 Graphic Design Internships for High School Students
Embarking on a career in graphic design can start as early as high school with the right internship opportunities. These internships provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and a glimpse into the professional world of design. For aspiring graphic designers, gaining real-world experience early on can make a significant difference in building a robust portfolio, learning industry standards, and making valuable connections. Internships also offer students the chance to explore their interests in design more deeply and decide which aspects of the field they are most passionate about.
In this blog post, we will explore 15 graphic design internships specifically tailored for high school students. These programs are offered by prestigious institutions, museums, libraries, and nonprofit organizations, providing diverse opportunities for young creatives to hone their skills. From working on museum exhibitions to creating promotional materials for community programs, these internships cover a wide range of design applications and environments.
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15 Graphic Design Internships for High School Students
1. Smithsonian Internship Program
The Smithsonian offers internships that provide high school students with the chance to work alongside professional designers in a variety of its museums and research centers. As an intern, you'll be involved in projects ranging from creating educational materials to designing exhibition graphics. This opportunity allows students to understand the integral role graphic design plays in enhancing the visitor experience and communicating the institution's vast collections and research.
In addition to practical design work, interns participate in workshops and seminars that cover a wide range of topics, from museum studies to career development. The program aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the arts and sciences while providing students with valuable skills that will benefit them in any career path they choose.
2. Adobe Youth Voices
Adobe Youth Voices, part of the Adobe Foundation, empowers young people to create with purpose. This program offers high school students the opportunity to work on multimedia projects, enhancing their design skills through hands-on experience with Adobe's suite of creative software. Interns develop projects that address social issues, promoting positive change through creative expression.
Throughout the internship, students receive mentorship from experienced professionals who guide them in developing their technical and artistic abilities. The program culminates in a showcase where interns present their work, gaining confidence and real-world experience in presenting their ideas to an audience.
3. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Teens
MoMA's Teen Internship Program offers high school students the unique opportunity to work at one of the world's leading art museums. Interns are involved in various projects, including designing promotional materials, assisting with exhibition layouts, and creating educational content. This hands-on experience provides insight into how graphic design contributes to the presentation and interpretation of modern and contemporary art.
Interns also participate in professional development workshops and attend lectures by artists and designers. These activities are designed to inspire and educate students, broadening their understanding of the art world and helping them build a network of contacts in the industry.
4. Creative Arts Workshop Youth Internship Program
The Creative Arts Workshop in New Haven, Connecticut, offers a Youth Internship Program that provides high school students with hands-on experience in various art disciplines, including graphic design. Interns work closely with professional artists and designers on real-world projects such as creating promotional materials, assisting in the development of exhibition layouts, and contributing to digital media campaigns. This program allows students to explore their artistic interests in a supportive and dynamic environment.
In addition to practical design work, interns participate in skill-building workshops and attend lectures by visiting artists and designers. These educational components are designed to enhance the interns' technical abilities and broaden their understanding of the creative industry. By the end of the internship, students will have developed a diverse portfolio of work and gained valuable insights into potential career paths in the arts and design.
5. Chicago Public Library YOUmedia
YOUmedia at the Chicago Public Library offers internships focused on digital media and design. High school students have the opportunity to work on a variety of creative projects, from designing posters and social media graphics to developing content for multimedia presentations. This program provides a collaborative environment where interns can explore their creativity and develop their technical skills.
Interns also have access to state-of-the-art technology and software, allowing them to experiment with different design techniques and tools. Regular feedback from mentors and peers helps students refine their work and prepare for future academic and career opportunities in graphic design and digital media.
6. Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Cooper Hewitt offers high school students a chance to intern at the only museum in the United States devoted exclusively to historic and contemporary design. Interns are involved in a variety of projects, including designing educational materials, assisting with exhibitions, and creating content for the museum's digital platforms. This experience provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of design and its many applications.
The program also includes workshops and lectures by leading designers and educators, offering interns the opportunity to learn about different design disciplines and career paths. By the end of the internship, students will have developed a strong portfolio and gained valuable insights into the professional world of design.
7. New York Historical Society Student Historian Program
The New York Historical Society's Student Historian Program offers high school students the opportunity to work on a range of projects, including graphic design tasks such as creating promotional materials and designing exhibition content. This program allows interns to explore the intersection of history and design, gaining a deeper understanding of how visual elements can enhance storytelling and education.
Interns also participate in research projects and attend seminars on historical topics, providing a well-rounded educational experience. The skills and knowledge gained through this program are valuable for any student interested in pursuing a career in graphic design, museum studies, or history.
8. RISD Pre-College Program
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Pre-College Program offers high school students an immersive experience in various art and design disciplines, including graphic design. This six-week summer program allows students to explore their creative potential through rigorous studio practice, projects, and critiques. Interns work on developing their design skills by engaging in hands-on projects such as creating posters, digital content, and brand identities.
Students also participate in foundation studies, enhancing their understanding of essential design principles and techniques. Throughout the program, participants receive guidance and mentorship from RISD faculty, helping them refine their portfolios and prepare for future academic pursuits in design. The program culminates in a final exhibition, where students showcase their work to peers, faculty, and industry professionals, providing a valuable platform for feedback and networking.
9. 826 National Design Internship
826 National is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting students with creative writing and literacy education. Their design internship offers high school students the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, including designing publications, promotional materials, and event collateral. Interns gain hands-on experience with graphic design software and learn how to create compelling visual content that supports the organization's mission.
Throughout the internship, students receive guidance and mentorship from experienced designers, helping them develop their technical skills and creative abilities. The program also includes opportunities to collaborate with writers and other creatives, providing a well-rounded experience that enhances both design and communication skills.
10. San Francisco Public Library's Teen Digital Media Internship
The San Francisco Public Library's Teen Digital Media Internship focuses on digital media, including graphic design. High school students work on projects that contribute to the library's outreach and programming efforts, such as designing posters, flyers, and social media graphics. This internship provides valuable experience in using design to communicate effectively and engage the community.
Interns also have access to workshops and training sessions that cover various aspects of digital media and design. These educational opportunities help students develop their skills and prepare for future academic and career pursuits in the creative industries.
11. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) Teen Internship Program
LACMA's Teen Internship Program offers high school students the chance to gain experience in various museum departments, including graphic design. Interns work on projects such as designing exhibition materials, creating promotional content, and assisting with digital initiatives. This program provides a comprehensive introduction to the role of design in a major cultural institution.
In addition to practical design work, interns participate in workshops and seminars on topics related to art, design, and museum studies. These activities help students build a broad understanding of the field and develop the skills needed for a successful career in graphic design or related disciplines.
12. Seattle Art Museum (SAM) Teen Arts Group
The Seattle Art Museum's Teen Arts Group offers high school students the opportunity to work on art-related projects, including graphic design. Interns collaborate on designing promotional materials, creating content for the museum's digital platforms, and assisting with exhibition layouts. This program provides hands-on experience in a professional setting, helping students develop their design skills and build a strong portfolio.
In addition to project work, interns participate in educational workshops and attend lectures by artists and designers. These activities provide valuable insights into the art world and help students explore different career paths in the creative industries.
13. Metropolitan Museum of Art High School Internship
The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers a high school internship program where students can work on graphic design projects that support the museum's exhibitions and educational programs. Interns create materials such as brochures, posters, and digital content, gaining hands-on experience with design software and tools.
The program also includes professional development workshops and networking opportunities with museum staff and industry professionals. These experiences help students build their skills and prepare for future academic and career opportunities in graphic design and the arts.
14. Brooklyn Public Library's Brooklyn Connections
Brooklyn Connections offers high school students the chance to work on design projects that support the library's educational initiatives. Interns create materials such as lesson plans, exhibits, and promotional content, gaining experience in using graphic design to communicate educational concepts effectively.
In addition to design work, interns participate in research projects and attend workshops on various topics related to history, education, and design. These experiences provide a well-rounded educational experience and help students develop valuable skills for their future careers.
15. National Gallery of Art High School Internship Program
The National Gallery of Art offers a high school internship program where students can work on graphic design projects that support the museum's exhibitions and educational programs. Interns create promotional materials, digital content, and exhibition graphics, gaining hands-on experience with design software and tools.
The program also includes educational workshops and seminars on topics related to art, design, and museum studies. These activities help students build a broad understanding of the field and develop the skills needed for a successful career in graphic design or related disciplines.
Conclusion
These 15 graphic design internships offer high school students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of graphic design. By participating in these programs, students can develop their technical skills, enhance their creativity, and build a professional portfolio that will serve them well in their future academic and career endeavors. Moreover, these internships provide invaluable insights into the various applications of graphic design, from museum exhibits and educational materials to digital media and nonprofit initiatives.
Whether you are passionate about art, history, technology, or social change, there is an internship on this list that can help you explore your interests and achieve your goals. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, collaborate on meaningful projects, and make a positive impact through design. Your journey in the world of graphic design starts here.
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