12 STEM Summer Internships for High School Students

Picture this: it’s summer, and while your friends are all spending their time catching up on Netflix shows, you’re knee-deep in cutting-edge science and tech projects.

You’ve got a front seat to the biggest thrills in science, math, technology, and engineering, playing a key role on a team that’s exploring the biggest medical breakthroughs or developing the next app.

STEM internships aren’t just about fetching coffee or filing papers. Instead, they’re about getting real-world work experience and exposure to complex problem-solving and critical thinking. From the Meta Summer Academy to Stanford University’s many research opportunities, all of these programs offer a peek into the real-life work of an actual scientist or engineer. High school students interested in STEM fields can find numerous programs that cater specifically to their interests.

You’ll get to work on projects, attend workshops, and maybe even contribute to original research that ends up in scientific journals bearing your name. These internships often provide opportunities for scientific research, giving students invaluable hands-on experience. How cool is that?

Based on the latest surveys and studies, students interested in STEM fields who participated in internships not only developed skills that were valuable in their future careers but also discovered new areas of interest. 

Translation? If you’re at all interested in STEM, then STEM summer internships for high school students could be the key to unlocking where your passions lie.

Why STEM Internships Are Vital for High School Students

You’ve probably already spent countless hours in the classroom discussing theories and solving equations. So why are STEM summer internships for high school students any different? Are they worth the extra effort? 

Short answer - yes. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when those theories you’ve chatted about meet the real world, STEM internships hold the answer. They offer a chance to swap textbooks for hands-on experience - an experience that will shape your career trajectory and offer the thrill of a lifetime. These programs specifically target high school sophomores and rising high school juniors, providing opportunities for skill development in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as real-world job experience and mentorship.

The Importance of Gaining Real-World Experience

Just imagine working alongside scientists on groundbreaking research or joining tech gurus to develop the next must-have app. 

That’s what a STEM summer internship can offer you! They’re like the ultimate reality check for all your biggest, brightest STEM dreams and aspirations.

When you step into the world of internships, you’re no longer a student. You’re a professional. Whether you’re building robots, conducting experiments, or designing software, these opportunities will supercharge your skills and change your life. 

Again, it’s not just about fetching coffee. It’s about getting your hands dirty with real-life projects that matter. You’ll gain the confidence to tackle challenges and the satisfaction of seeing your work in action. It’s all about applying your classroom knowledge in the field, often with the guidance and hands-on experience provided by a graduate student mentor.

Forget scribbling formulas on a whiteboard; now you'll see them in action. Maybe you'll write code that revolutionizes data analysis or help develop renewable energy solutions that make the planet a little greener. 

Whatever the project, you'll get to flex those brain muscles and make a tangible impact. 

All in all, internships are like a sneak peek into your future career, giving you a taste of what it’s like to work in a professional environment, collaborate with experts, and solve problems in real-time.

Boosting College Applications and Career Prospects

Now, let's talk about the practical side of things. STEM internships are not just cool; they're also a smart move for your college application and career prospects.

When your college application lands on the desk of an admissions officer, you need to make sure it stands out. One of the best ways to do that is by adding a summer internship to your roster of experiences. Colleges love to see students who go the extra mile, and a STEM internship shows that you’ve done just that.

You’ve already got the straight A’s and the passion for science. A STEM internship will back up those credentials with real-life experience while also showcasing your commitment and eagerness to explore beyond the classroom.

Even further, internships provide you with an opportunity to connect with professionals in your chosen field. These are connections that will no doubt prove to be valuable down the road as you’re looking for recommendations, mentorship, or even job opportunities. 

Building a network while you're still in high school might sound intimidating, but it's easier than you think. You'll meet people who share your interests, have walked the path before you, and are excited to help you succeed.

Benefits of STEM Internships for High School Students

Participating in a STEM internship during high school can have numerous benefits for students. Not only do internships provide hands-on experience and exposure to real-world applications of STEM concepts, but they also offer a unique opportunity for students to develop valuable skills, explore career options, and enhance their college applications.

Enhance College Applications

STEM internships can significantly enhance a student’s college application. By participating in an internship, students demonstrate their commitment to their field of interest, showcase their skills and knowledge, and gain a competitive edge in the college admissions process. Many colleges and universities view internships as a valuable experience that prepares students for the rigors of higher education.

Develop Skills and Knowledge

STEM internships provide students with the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. Students also gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, software, and equipment, which can help them develop a deeper understanding of STEM concepts. Additionally, internships offer students the chance to work with experienced professionals who can provide guidance, mentorship, and valuable insights into the field.

Explore Career Options

STEM internships offer students the opportunity to explore different career options and gain a better understanding of what a particular career path entails. By working in a real-world setting, students can gain a deeper understanding of the skills and knowledge required for a specific career and make informed decisions about their future academic and professional pursuits.

Top 12 STEM Summer Internships for High School Students

For high school seniors, juniors, and even sophomores looking for hands-on experience in STEM programs, there’s no better opportunity than an internship. These programs often provide opportunities for local high school students, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to engage in fields like sustainability, energy research, and scientific exploration.

While the list below is far from exhaustive (some other great programs to explore include the Meta Summer Academy, also known as the Facebook Summer Academy, or the interdisciplinary summer research internships at the Miller School of Medicine), it’s a great place to start in your search for an experience that not only broadens your horizons but fleshes out your resume. The medicine summer research program, such as the Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR), offers high school students immersive, hands-on experiences in biomedical research.

Each of these has different eligibility criteria and application deadlines - and not each one is a paid internship - so be sure to do some research ahead of time to find the opportunity that’s best for you.

NASA OSTEM Internship

Have you ever dreamed of working for NASA, the world’s leading space agency? With the NASA OSTEM (Office of STEM Engagement) Internship, that dream could become a reality. 

Another leading organization offering stipend-paid summer internship opportunities is the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).

This prestigious program allows high school students to work directly on real-world aerospace projects alongside NASA scientists. 

Whether you’re interested in engineering, computer science, or even planetary science, there’s something here for you. The program offers both virtual and in-person opportunities for high schoolers, with stipends to help cover expenses. It’s an out-of-this-world opportunity to get your foot in the door of the aerospace industry.

National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Summer Internship Program

If your aspirations lie more in biomedical research, then the National Institutes of Health Summer Internship Program is an excellent choice. Just imagine spending your summer at NIH campuses, working with leading biomedical researchers and contributing to groundbreaking healthcare discoveries!

These STEM high school internships are known for their competitive application process, but trust us - the rewards are well worth it. Not only will you gain valuable research experience after the school year has ended, but you’ll also receive a modest stipend to help cover some of your expenses.

Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP)

Do you have dreams of working in a U.S. Army research lab? You don’t have to enlist to do so.

The AEOP offers high school students an incredible chance to intern at Army labs across the United States, gaining hands-on experience in engineering and technology. Whether you’re considering a career in defense, research, or tech, this program is a fantastic stipend.

Like the NIH internship, AEOP also provides a stipend so you can focus on learning without worrying about your wallet. 

The Army Educational Outreach Program offers several other enrichment programs as well, including AEOP fellowships that are open to graduate students and PhD candidates. There’s also Camp Invention, a hands-on summer camp for kids in grades K-6, and the Junior Solar Sprint, where students design and build solar-powered cars, open to kids in grades 5-8.

Lockheed Martin High School Internship

Lockheed Martin offers paid internships at several of its locations, giving high school students like yourself the unparalleled opportunity to work on aerospace projects and see what it’s like to be part of a team that designs technology for aircraft and defense systems.

The motto of the program alone tells you everything you need to know: “It’s not what you know, it’s what you can imagine.” 

As part of these internships, you’ll work on projects with aerospace scientists and engineers while enjoying on-the-job training, mentoring, and leader shadowing. The positions are available in several American cities, including Denver, Colorado, Cape Canaveral, Florida, and Huntsville, Alabama. 

All in all, you’ll spend nine weeks in the summer working on world-changing projects and defense tech that will, according to the company’s website, “help our customers stay ahead of ready.” 

Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

If you feel most at home by the water, then the Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology program might be a good fit for you. Here, you can turn your love for aquatic life into a potential career.

You’ll work on fisheries biology projects and fieldwork and have the opportunity to attend the Hutton Scholars Summit for an immersive learning experience. These internships take place across all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Plus, you’ll receive a $3,000 stipend and ample mentorship from professionals in the field. 

This program is highly impactful, with 69% of Hutton alumni going on to further STEM education as college students or toward careers in fisheries or other biological sciences!

Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI) High School Internships

Do you envision yourself as the next big name in plant science research? At the Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI), you’ll work with mentors right at Cornell University’s BTI campus. Maintaining a strong academic record, specifically a B average or better in science and math classes, is crucial for participation in prestigious programs like this. Your focus? Plant science and sustainability.

You’ll conduct in-depth plant science research under the guidance of expert mentors while attending seminars and workshops geared toward professional development (many of which are also attended by industry professionals and graduate school students). You’ll even have the opportunity to present your research at a scientific symposium at summer’s end. 

A six-week internship program, the BTI high school internship also provides a generous stipend. 

Idaho National Laboratory High School Internship Program

Is nuclear science calling your name? How about cybersecurity or environmental science? The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) has got you covered. It’s where science fiction meets fact, and you get to be part of the action.

In this high school internship, you’ll have the opportunity to work on real-world projects alongside top scientists in the field. You’ll gain hands-on experience in all kinds of different scientific disciplines and, again, benefit from mentorship and a supportive learning environment right in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

J. Craig Venter Institute Internship Program

The J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) offers an internship that's all about cutting-edge research in genomics and computational biology. 

Just imagine spending your summer in a lab where science fiction meets reality. You'll be involved in wet lab experimentation and bioinformatics, getting hands-on experience that could even lead to publishing your work in scientific journals. 

Designed for students aged 16 and older, ideally high school juniors and seniors, this is a paid gig that can lead to real scientific discovery!

Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center High School Internship Program

Next up is the Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center in Seattle, which offers an eight-week full-time summer program primarily for rising seniors. 

It’s geared specifically toward students with backgrounds that are traditionally underrepresented in biomedical science, giving them the opportunity to participate in lab training and career development workshops and to work with accomplished scientists. 

And don’t worry, there’s never a dull moment here. The program even includes some beach days and other exciting ways to enjoy student life, built in!

National Security Agency (NSA) High School Work-Study Program

If you’ve ever considered working for the NSA, this high school work-study program should pique your interest. It’s great for STEM enthusiasts who are interested in technology and engineering.

In this summer youth internship program, you’ll gain some serious hands-on experience while you’re still in school, but the best part? You get paid! This is a great opportunity to see how national security operates from the inside out.

Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)

For those students who are interested in naval research, SEAP is your ticket. You’ll spend eight weeks at a Navy lab, working with scientists and engineers on real research projects. 

This program aims to encourage students to pursue careers within the Department of Navy, making it ideal for juniors and seniors who are interested in learning more about naval science. Again, a generous stipend is provided to summer interns who pursue these research opportunities. 

Simons Summer Research Program

If you’re an academically talented high school student eager to conduct research at a university, the Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University is calling your name. In programs like these, students often benefit from direct instruction and mentorship from Stanford faculty, providing unparalleled educational experiences.

In this one-of-a-kind summer internship opportunity, you'll work alongside esteemed faculty mentors, learn essential laboratory techniques, and perhaps even make some groundbreaking discoveries of your own. This program is perfect for those ready to live the university research life. 

Internships by Field

Science and Research

Science and research internships provide students with the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects, conduct experiments, and collect data. These internships can be found in a variety of fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. Students can work in laboratories, research institutions, or universities and gain hands-on experience with scientific equipment and techniques.

Some examples of science and research internships include:

• The National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program provides students with the opportunity to work on research projects in a variety of STEM fields.

• The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) offers high school students the opportunity to work on research projects at the Department of Navy laboratories.

• The Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT provides students with the opportunity to work on research projects in a variety of STEM fields, including biology, chemistry, and physics.

These internships can provide students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop valuable skills, and explore career options in the fields of science and research.

How STEM Internships Prepare You for College and Beyond

If you’ve ever wondered how you can get a head start on your STEM career while you’re still in high school, summer internships are your golden ticket. Not only do they look fantastic on college admissions applications, but they also give you hands-on experience that textbooks just can’t provide.

And let’s be honest - saying, “I worked on a research project at [x, y, or z prestigious university],” just sounds cool!

Building a Strong College Application Through Internships

When it comes to college applications., the competition is fierce, and you need any and every edge you can get.

Admissions officers love STEM internships because they show that you’re serious about your future and brave enough to step out of the classroom and into the real world.

Plus, you’ll gain skills and stories to share in your college essays and interviews that will make you stand out like a neon sign in a sea of comparatively dull applicants.

They also give you something meatier to talk about. Just imagine for a moment that you're in an interview, and they ask you about a time you tackled a challenge. You could go the generic route, or you could talk about that summer you spent solving real-world problems during your internship. 

Real-world skills? Check. Experience to make your essays pop? Check. Impress those college folks? Double check.

Networking and Mentorship for Long-Term Career Success

Beyond the skills and the swagger it adds to your resume, internships are also your chance to rub shoulders with the pros. You’re not just fetching coffee; you’re working alongside scientists, engineers, and tech whizzes who can teach you a thing or two. 

These connections can open doors to future internships or even job offers down the line. 

Not only that, but the mentors you’ll meet likely will be interested in joining you for the long haul. They’re there to provide guidance, share their own professional wisdom, and help you uncover potential paths in your career that you might not have considered. 

From Internship Experience to Polygence Projects

A strong portfolio or resume is more than just a collection of achievements. It’s a compelling narrative of your academic and personal growth. 

A STEM internship is more than just a summer gig. It’s a step toward becoming the STEM superstar you’re meant to be.

If you’re ready to take the plunge, consider the research mentorship program through Polygence. By tapping into our community of like-minded research enthusiasts and receiving advice from an expert mentor, you’ll get the support you need to turn your summer experience into something truly extraordinary. 

Curious about what you can achieve? Learn more about Polygence’s Research Mentorship Program today!