11 Great High School Internships in Los Angeles
Internships are invaluable experiences for high school students, offering a taste of real-world work environments, hands-on learning, and the chance to explore potential career paths. In the bustling city of Los Angeles, there's no shortage of exciting internship opportunities across various industries. Whether you're interested in technology, entertainment, medicine, or the arts, there's something for everyone. Here are 11 high school internships in Los Angeles to consider:
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Why Participate in an Internship as a High School Student?
Participating in an internship as a high school student offers a myriad of benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Here are several compelling reasons why engaging in an internship during high school can be incredibly valuable:
1. Exploration of Career Paths: High school internships provide students with a valuable opportunity to explore various career paths and industries firsthand. By gaining exposure to different work environments, tasks, and responsibilities, students can better understand their interests, strengths, and potential career aspirations. Internships offer a practical way to test out different fields and narrow down career choices before committing to a college major or career path.
2. Hands-On Learning: Internships offer hands-on learning experiences that go beyond the traditional classroom setting. Through real-world projects, tasks, and interactions with professionals, students develop practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and industry-specific knowledge. Whether it's shadowing a healthcare professional, assisting with marketing campaigns, or conducting scientific research, internships provide invaluable experiential learning opportunities that can't be replicated in a classroom.
3. Professional Development: High school internships offer students the chance to develop essential professional skills and behaviors that are critical for success in any career. From communication and teamwork to time management and professionalism, interns learn how to navigate workplace dynamics and expectations. By receiving feedback from supervisors, setting goals, and reflecting on their experiences, students can continuously improve and grow both personally and professionally.
4. Networking Opportunities: Internships provide students with valuable networking opportunities that can open doors to future career prospects. By interacting with professionals in their chosen field, students can build relationships, seek mentorship, and expand their professional network. These connections may lead to future job opportunities, internships, or letters of recommendation. Building a strong professional network early on can be instrumental in launching a successful career down the line.
5. Resume Enhancement: Having internship experience on a resume can make a high school student stand out to college admissions officers, scholarship committees, and future employers. Internships demonstrate initiative, motivation, and a willingness to learn, which are all qualities that are highly valued in college and the workforce. Additionally, internships provide concrete examples of skills, accomplishments, and experiences that can strengthen a student's college application or job application.
Overall, participating in an internship as a high school student offers a valuable opportunity for personal, academic, and professional growth. From exploring career interests to developing essential skills and building a professional network, internships provide a solid foundation for future success in college and beyond.
11 High School Internships in Los Angeles
1. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) High School Internship Program
LACMA's High School Internship Program offers students a comprehensive introduction to the world of art and museum operations. Throughout the program, interns work alongside professionals in various departments, including education, curatorial, and conservation, gaining hands-on experience and insight into the inner workings of a renowned art institution. Through guided tours, research projects, and interactive workshops, participants not only deepen their understanding of art history and museum practices but also develop valuable skills in communication, research, and teamwork. By actively engaging with LACMA's diverse collections and programs, interns have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the museum's mission of promoting the understanding and appreciation of art.
2. Kaiser Permanente Summer Youth Employment Program
The Kaiser Permanente Summer Youth Employment Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore careers in healthcare. Interns rotate through various departments within Kaiser Permanente, shadowing healthcare professionals and assisting with administrative tasks. Through hands-on experiences and workshops, participants gain insight into different medical specialties and develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. By immersing themselves in a healthcare environment and interacting with patients and staff, interns not only gain valuable career exposure but also cultivate empathy, compassion, and a commitment to improving the health and well-being of others.
3. Los Angeles County Arts Commission Arts Internship Program
The Los Angeles County Arts Commission Arts Internship Program provides high school students with a dynamic opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant arts and culture scene of Los Angeles. Interns are matched with leading arts organizations across the county, where they gain practical experience in various aspects of arts administration, including event planning, marketing, and community outreach. Through hands-on projects and mentorship from industry professionals, participants develop valuable skills and insights into the creative industries. By actively contributing to the cultural landscape of Los Angeles, interns not only enhance their resumes but also cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts and a passion for fostering artistic expression in their communities.
4. California Science Center Youth Explainer Program
The California Science Center Youth Explainer Program offers high school students an exciting opportunity to inspire curiosity and learning in others through hands-on science engagement. Explainers serve as ambassadors for science education, facilitating interactive demonstrations and engaging visitors with exhibits. Through training sessions and mentorship from science educators, participants develop communication skills, deepen their understanding of scientific concepts, and gain confidence in their ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. By sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for science among visitors of all ages, interns play a vital role in promoting STEM education and empowering others to explore the wonders of the natural world.
5. Los Angeles Philharmonic High School Internship Program
The Los Angeles Philharmonic High School Internship Program offers students a gateway to the world of music and performing arts administration. Interns collaborate with professionals in various departments, including marketing, fundraising, and event management, gaining hands-on experience in the day-to-day operations of one of the world's leading orchestras. Through workshops, rehearsals, and interactions with musicians and staff, participants deepen their understanding of music as both an art form and a business. By contributing their skills and creativity to the organization, interns play a vital role in supporting the mission of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and promoting the transformative power of music in society.
6. Sony Pictures Entertainment High School Internship Program
The Sony Pictures Entertainment High School Internship Program offers students a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the entertainment industry. Interns work on projects related to film and television production, marketing, and distribution, gaining practical experience and exposure to various aspects of the business. Through mentorship from industry professionals and networking opportunities, participants develop valuable skills and insights into the fast-paced world of entertainment. By immersing themselves in the creative process and contributing their unique perspectives, interns play a vital role in shaping the future of storytelling and entertainment.
7. Los Angeles Zoo High School Volunteer Program
The Los Angeles Zoo High School Volunteer Program provides students with a hands-on opportunity to engage with wildlife conservation and education. Volunteers assist zookeepers with animal care tasks, participate in educational programs for visitors, and contribute to conservation initiatives. Through training sessions and workshops, participants deepen their understanding of wildlife biology and gain practical experience in environmental stewardship. By actively contributing to the zoo's mission of conservation and education, volunteers not only develop valuable skills but also foster a deeper connection with the natural world and a commitment to protecting biodiversity for future generations.
8. Los Angeles Public Library Teen Council Internship
The Los Angeles Public Library Teen Council Internship offers students a chance to make a positive impact in their communities through library programming and outreach. Interns assist with organizing events, leading workshops, and promoting library services to their peers. Through mentorship from library staff and hands-on experiences, participants develop leadership skills and cultivate a love for literature and learning. By actively engaging with their communities and promoting the value of libraries as centers for education and enrichment, interns play a vital role in fostering a culture of lifelong learning and civic engagement.
9. Los Angeles Times High School Insider Program
The Los Angeles Times High School Insider Program provides aspiring journalists with a platform to develop their skills and pursue their passion for storytelling. Interns work closely with professional journalists, contributing articles, videos, and multimedia projects for publication on the High School Insider website. Through workshops, mentorship, and newsroom experience, participants gain practical journalism skills and insights into the media industry. By telling compelling stories and amplifying diverse voices, interns play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and informing their peers about issues that matter in their communities and beyond.
10. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Explorer Program
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Explorer Program offers students an immersive introduction to law enforcement careers. Explorers learn about police operations, participate in ride-alongs with deputies, and engage in community service projects. Through training sessions and mentorship from law enforcement professionals, participants develop leadership skills and gain firsthand experience in public safety and community policing. By actively participating in crime prevention efforts and building positive relationships with community members, Explorers contribute to the Sheriff's Department's mission of promoting public safety and building trust within diverse communities.
11. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County High School Volunteer Program
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers a High School Volunteer Program for students interested in natural sciences, history, and museum operations. Through this program, students have the opportunity to assist museum staff with various tasks, including visitor engagement, exhibit interpretation, and special events. Volunteers may also participate in behind-the-scenes activities, such as collections management and scientific research projects. This hands-on experience provides students with valuable insights into museum operations and the opportunity to explore potential career paths in science, education, and museum curation.
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