13 Internships for High School Students in Utah
Internships can help high school students learn how to apply their classroom knowledge and hone their skills. These experiences offer high school students a chance to gain real-world experience, explore potential career paths, and build key skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Whether you’re interested in science, technology, healthcare, or policy, internships can help you develop the confidence and practical knowledge that could give you a head start on your college applications and future careers.
These programs can also enable you to build connections and network with industry professionals. Here are 13 internship opportunities for high school students in Utah that provide insightful educational experiences.
Location: Virtual. Interns can work from anywhere in the world!
Eligibility: All high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students who can commit to working for 10-20 hours a week for 8-12 weeks.
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year. Winter Cohort begins December 16, 2024.
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year. Winter cohort admissions end on November 24, 2024.
Cost: Costs start at $2,990. Financial aid is available
Founded by Harvard alumni, Ladder Internships is a selective program that connects high school students with global nonprofit organizations and startups. Students can select from a range of fields, including healthcare, technology, medicine, machine learning, AI, finance, environmental science, and more.
Through the program, interns will be guided by organization managers, and receive one-on-one mentorship from a Ladder Coach. They will work on a real-world project in a bid to add tangible value to the company and present their work at the end of their internship. Interns will also gain essential skills such as communication and time management, and benefit from group training sessions that encourage them to collaborate and learn together.
2. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS) - Virtual Experience
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors from underrepresented populations.
Program Dates: 5 weeks during the summer (typically July to August)
Application Deadline: Applications for Summer programs are open from December 1 to March 1 annually.
Cost/Stipend: Virtual interns who successfully complete the 5-week program receive a $500 scholarship to support their education.
If you’re passionate about neurology and brain science, the Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS) is a prestigious virtual internship that provides an in-depth look at neurological research. Students learn about techniques used in research labs, participate in mentorship and professional development, and work on collaborative projects like studying epilepsy or HIV’s effects on bone structure.
Students will collaborate on research projects, such as the Electrophysiological Mechanisms of Juvenile Epilepsy or HIV’s Effects on Bone Structure, and present their findings at the end of the program. This is a great opportunity to strengthen public speaking skills, gain mentorship from renowned experts, and build a professional network.
3. American Psychological Association (APA) Internships
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: Interns must be eligible to work in the U.S. (as verified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s e-verify service) and must reside in one of the states where APA is already registered as an employer.
Program Dates: Year-round internships, with summer options available
Application Deadline: Varies based on the internship.
Cost/Stipend: Paid or for academic credit, depending on the internship
The American Psychological Association (APA) offers a range of internship opportunities in roles such as policy, communications, operations, and research. These are tailored to match interns’ specific interests and offer diverse learning outcomes across departments. Interns are matched with supervisors who guide them through hands-on projects, helping them develop practical skills while working in professional environments.
Interns participate in workshops, collaborative group projects, and networking events designed to boost their academic and professional growth. They also gain valuable insight into the inner workings of psychology-related careers, whether by conducting research, assisting in policy initiatives, or supporting outreach programs.
While some internships are unpaid and intended for academic credit, many paid opportunities are available depending on the role. When applying for a paid internship, students must submit a cover letter, resume, and (depending on the internship) a writing sample.
4. NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internships
Location: NASA facilities nationwide (with virtual opportunities available)
Eligibility: Full-time high school students with a minimum 3.0 GPA
Program Dates: Programs are offered in 3 sessions:
- Fall: 16 weeks (late August/early September to mid-December)
- Spring: 16 weeks ( mid-January to early May)
- Summer: 10 weeks (late May/early June to August)
Application Deadline: May 16, 2025 (Fall session) | August 23, 2024 (Spring session) | October 25, 2024 (early decision for Summer session) February 28, 2024 (Final Summer deadline)
Cost/Stipend: Stipend available based on session length and academic level
The NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers high school students a chance to explore space science, engineering, and technology through hands-on internships at NASA facilities. This prestigious program provides an unparalleled opportunity to work on projects alongside NASA scientists, engineers, and professionals, giving students a taste of what it's like to contribute to the future of space exploration.
Interns can apply to a variety of roles that align with their interests, whether it’s in documentation, technical writing, research, or data analysis. For example, students with a penchant for documentation and technical writing may apply for the Equity Strategies for Emerging Aviation internship, which may also include research work. Each intern is paired with a NASA mentor, ensuring a structured learning experience that promotes both personal and professional growth.
5. EnergyMag Research Internship
Location: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with at least one honors science or honors English class and a minimum GPA of 3.25
Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have taken at least one honors science or honors English class with a minimum GPA of 3.25
Program Dates:
- Half-time: 2 to 8 weeks in increments of 2 weeks, available in summer.
- Quarter-time: 1 to 9 months in increments of 1 month, available all year round.
Application Deadline: Applications are open year-round.
Cost/Stipend: None
This is a noteworthy opportunity for students interested in renewable energy and sustainability. This virtual internship allows students to dive into real-world research projects related to renewable energy while developing critical research, writing, and analytical skills. EnergyMag's internship selection process is highly competitive, as college students also apply, making it a valuable distinction for those selected.
Interns can choose between half-time summer programs lasting 2 to 8 weeks or quarter-time programs that span up to 9 months. During the internship, participants work on personalized tasks aligned with their academic background and career interests.
Interns are also guided by a mentor who offers guidance, support, and supervision, ensuring that students can efficiently gather, synthesize, and analyze information for their draft analysis report. This report may then be published on the EnergyMag website, thus offering students a platform to showcase their findings.
6. SHTEM: Summer Internships for High Schoolers at Stanford University
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: Applicants must be a high school junior or senior at the time of application, and at least 14 years of age by June 17.
Program Dates: June 17 – August 9, 2024.
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in January.
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid internship with no cost. Financial assistance may be offered.
This is a prestigious program that encourages students to engage in various subjects while conducting research on cutting-edge projects. The SHTEM program provides participants with the opportunity to work with Stanford faculty and industry leaders. These cutting-edge projects span a wide array of fields, from computer science and biology to philosophy and neuroscience.
During this eight-week summer program, students will work remotely, conducting research, collaborating with peers, and receiving guidance from Stanford professors. All necessary hardware is provided, allowing you to focus on your projects without logistical concerns. Participants are expected to commit to 40 hours per week, offering an intensive experience that mirrors the demands of university-level research.
7. Summer Internships at the Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI)
Location: Remote or in-person options are available.
Eligibility: High school students with U.S. work authorization
Program Dates:
- Fall: September – December
- Spring: February - May
- Summer: June - August
Application Deadline: Applications for Spring close on November 1, 2024
Cost/Stipend: Varies by internship; some positions are unpaid, while others offer a stipend based on financial need
Whether working remotely or in person, interns at FPRI engage in meaningful work that exposes them to the world of policy research, communications, event planning, and operations. Interns work under the supervision of a scholar or professional who offers guidance and mentorship. This prestigious program provides a behind-the-scenes look at how foreign policy is shaped and debated.
Interns are assigned to one of several departments, including Research, Special Events/Development, Communications, and Operations. Editorial opportunities may also be offered.
Research interns collaborate with scholars and work directly under an FPRI staffer as they conduct research in various areas.
Special events/development interns work on all event-related tasks for events hosted or co-hosted by the FPRI under the supervision of the Development Director and Event Manager.
Communications interns assist the Assistant Director of Communications with content development.
Operations interns are tasked with various tasks and projects related to the program and assist the management staff with their duties.
In addition to these tasks, interns attend foreign policy seminars and career panels, where they can interact with professionals in the field. This multifaceted experience helps students develop essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, and project management while networking with leaders in international relations.
8. John and Marcia Price College of Engineering’s High School Summer Research Internship
Location: University of Utah, John and Marcia Price College of Engineering
Eligibility: Open to high school students; math readiness and basic technical skills may be necessary depending on the research project.
Program Dates: Not specified
Application Deadline: Not specified
Cost/Stipend: None
The John and Marcia Price College of Engineering’s High School Summer Research Internship at the University of Utah offers an immersive research experience into the different types of engineering. This competitive program introduces participants to various engineering disciplines and provides the opportunity to engage in hands-on academic research. Interns work alongside university faculty and graduate students in a laboratory setting, gaining valuable experience that helps build a solid foundation for college applications and future studies.
Throughout the program, students participate in workshops that cover important topics such as research ethics, technical writing, and scientific communication.
This is a competitive program with only a few seats and helps students engage in research work in a laboratory setting, thus providing a headstart and boosting their college applications. At the end of the program, students will present their project at the Utah Science & Engineering Fair!
9. Los Angeles Pediatric Society’s Eve And Gene Black Summer Medical Career Program
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: High school students with U.S. work authorization
Program Dates:
- Session 1: July 8 - July 18, 2024
- Session 2: July 22 - August 1, 2024
- Monday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 12:15 pm
Application Deadline: February 16, 2024
Cost/Stipend: $500 scholarship and certificate of completion
This comprehensive program, hosted by the Los Angeles Pediatric Society (LAPS), serves as a mentorship experience where participants engage in presentations and interactive sessions. This virtual program allows participants to engage in sessions led by healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians, surgeons, radiologists, pharmacists, dietitians, and more.
This program was established in 1969, the goal of the program is to inspire students to pursue careers in health professions by offering them insight into various medical specialties and healthcare pathways. Students will also participate in Q&A sessions, where they can ask professionals about their career journeys and gain a better understanding of the different paths within the medical field.
For the application, students must submit a letter of recommendation, address an essay question, and provide a list of extracurricular activities and honors/awards/rewards.
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: Open to all high school students worldwide; minimum commitment of 1 article or 2 hours per week.
Program Dates: Open year-round, including summer sessions
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions throughout the year.
Cost/Stipend: None
Medicine Encompassed is a student-led nonprofit organization that offers year-round internships to high school students interested in healthcare, public health, and medical education. This is an excellent opportunity for students eager to collaborate with peers and gain experience in a student-led nonprofit organization. With over 18 committees available, participants can contribute to various areas, including the Project Cultivation outreach initiative and other specialized committee projects.
Current openings include roles for writers, editors, and resource creators. Interns play a key role in drafting educational articles, editing blog posts, developing social media content, and creating study guides and presentations. This work allows students to hone their research, writing, and technical skills while gaining hands-on experience in a professional environment. The program is flexible, allowing participants to manage their schedules while meeting a minimum weekly commitment.
The Project Cultivation initiative focuses on raising awareness and improving accessibility to medical education, with student interns playing a key role in creating and contributing to its educational resources.
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: High school students in the US who are over the age of 14 can apply. Students with strong math or computer programming skills or experience with a healthcare project are encouraged to apply.
Program Dates: Not specified
Application Deadline: Applications for Summer 2025 will open in January.
Cost/Stipend: None
In this highly selective program, 25 students will delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence and healthcare through a blend of introductory and technical lectures on AI in healthcare fundamentals. This eight-week virtual internship immerses students in cutting-edge research focused on AI applications in medical imaging, diagnostics, and other healthcare technologies. Participants will also engage in hands-on group research and polish their teamwork skills.
Under the guidance of Stanford faculty and student mentors, interns collaborate on projects that involve AI-based solutions to medical challenges. The program emphasizes teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving, providing students with the skills needed to tackle complex healthcare problems. Students will also participate in social activities and career-focused sessions, where they can interact with guest speakers from academia, nonprofits, and government organizations.
The internship runs from 9 am to 1 pm, Monday through Friday, and offers the possibility of an extended independent research opportunity. Upon completion, students will be awarded a certificate of completion.
12. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
Location: Hutton aims to match students within a 45-minute commute of their home
Eligibility: Open to high school students residing in the United States, Mexico, or Canada
Program Dates: 8 weeks during the summer (exact dates are flexible).
Application Deadline: January 19, 2025.
Cost/Stipend: $3,000 stipend and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Hutton Scholars Summit
Sponsored by the American Fisheries Society, this initiative is designed to ignite student interest and expose them to various aspects of the aquatic science industry, including a wide range of career paths. Through hands-on experiences, participants work alongside expert mentors, conducting field and laboratory research, analyzing aquatic ecosystems, and contributing to conservation efforts.
The program has been running for over 23 years, and throughout the eight-week internship, students may engage in activities such as electrofishing, specimen analysis, fish habitat development, aquatic vegetation restoration, and data collection for fisheries research. Interns also have the opportunity to work on resource conservation projects, gaining a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
Participants also receive an all-expense-paid trip to attend the Hutton Scholars Summit at the University of Arkansas.
13. Veritas AI Internship
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: October 20, 2024
Dates: The start date for the upcoming cohort is November 11, 2024.
Eligibility: Open to high school students who have prior experience with AI/ML or have completed a Veritas AI program.
Cost: $2,490 (some financial aid is available)
The AI Internship Program by Veritas AI is founded and run by Harvard graduate students. Through the 8-week internship, students have the opportunity to work with VC-backed startups on real-world AI/ML projects. Students work directly with mentors from Harvard, Wharton, Google, Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, and more.
This program is a great opportunity for students who have prior experience with AI/ML and are looking to gain real-world exposure to a career in the field. Students get a chance to network with industry professionals, work closely with company leadership, and receive a letter of completion from the company at the end of the internship. You can learn more about the program here and apply here.
Looking for an immersive internship experience?
Check out Ladder Internships!
Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual internship program where students work with startups and nonprofits from around the world! The startups range across a variety of industries, with a large number of them in tech. As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project that is of genuine need to the startup they are working with, and present their work at the end of their internship. In addition to working closely with their manager from the startup, each intern will also work with a Ladder Coach throughout their internship. Apply now!
Stephen is one of the founders of Ladder Internships and a Harvard College graduate.