10 Internships for High School Students in Chicago
Participating in an internship during high school can be a solid experience, and here’s why.
Doing an internship as a high schooler can give you solid insights into various career paths and industries in a subject of your choice. These opportunities also allow you to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, develop essential professional skills, and gain a competitive edge when applying for college. Early exposure to professional environments not only enhances your resume but also demonstrates your initiative, commitment, and readiness for higher education and future careers.
In this article, we highlight 10 internships available for high school students in Chicago!
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: $1990 (Financial Aid Available)
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates and gap year students!
Ladder Internships is a selective start-up internship program for ambitious high school students! In the program, you work with a high-growth start-up on an internship. Start-ups that offer internships range across a variety of industries from tech/deep tech, AI/ML to health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. You can explore all the options here on their application form. Ladder’s start-ups are high-growth companies on average raising over a million dollars. Past founders have included YCombinator alums, founders raising over 30 million dollars, or founders who previously worked at Microsoft, Google, and Facebook. In the program, interns work closely with their managers and a Ladder Coach on real-world projects and present their work to the company. Here is the application form.
Interns are offered one-on-one training in communication, time management, and other such valuable skills and will also have the opportunity to attend group training sessions with other interns in their cohort. The virtual internship is usually 8 weeks long.
Location: Virtually hosted by the University of Chicago
Cost/Stipend: $500 taxable stipend
Application Deadline: March 4, 2024; Admission is based on teacher nominations from participating Chicago high schools.Dates/Duration: Two weeks; typically in the second half of July.
Eligibility:
Rising high school sophomore, junior, or senior OR rising college freshman.
Strong interest in a career in scientific research or medicine.
Ability to commit to the full two-week program (weekdays only, 4 hours/day)
The Summer Healthcare Experience (SHE) in Oncology is a targeted virtual program designed for Chicago high school students who are passionate about science and medicine. This intensive, 2-week program offers participants an in-depth exploration of oncology, where they engage in genetics-based research projects and patient case studies.
Participants in SHE benefit from daily lectures by University of Chicago faculty, panel discussions, and skill-building workshops that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge with practical application. The curriculum covers essential aspects of cancer science and care, giving students a comprehensive understanding of oncology.
In addition to academic content, students work closely with peers and mentors, fostering collaboration and gaining insights into the challenges and advancements in cancer research and treatment. The program aims to inspire and prepare future healthcare professionals, inspiring a deep interest in oncology and related medical fields.
Location: University of Chicago
Cost/Stipend: $3,000 taxable stipend
Application Deadline: January 22, 2024
Dates/Duration: Typically from the second full week of June through the first week of August. Specific dates are announced with the release of application materials each fall.
Eligibility:
High school junior or senior at the time of application
At least 16 years of age at the start of the program
Strong interest in a career in scientific research or medicine
Ability to commit to 8 full weeks of programming (40 hours/week)
ResearcHStart is a unique summer program tailored for high-achieving high school students with a deep interest in cancer research. This full-time, immersive experience places students directly in the laboratories of leading researchers, providing hands-on experience in innovative fields such as cancer immunology, bioengineering, and experimental cancer therapeutics.
Throughout the 8-week program, students actively engage in research projects, collaborating closely with university faculty and research professionals. This program goes beyond just lab work; it emphasizes mentorship and professional development, offering participants the guidance needed to navigate complex research environments effectively.
ResearcHStart also incorporates targeted career development and skill-building workshops, equipping students with the tools and knowledge needed for a future in cancer research and beyond. These workshops cover critical topics such as data analysis, research ethics, and career planning, ensuring participants leave the program with a robust foundation for both academic and professional success. By the end of ResearcHStart, students not only contribute to meaningful research but also position themselves strongly for their academic and professional careers.
Locations:
The Michael and Karyn Lutz Center, Chicago
Gallery 37 Center for the Arts, Chicago
After School Matters at Gately Park, Chicago
Cost/Stipend: $15.80/hour
Application Deadline: Applications accepted on a rolling basis.
Dates/Duration: June 24, 2024 - August 2, 2024
Eligibility:
Must be a Chicago resident or attend a Chicago Public High School.
Open to teenagers aged 14 to 18.
The After School Matters (ASM) is a dynamic program that offers Chicago teens a variety of internship opportunities across multiple fields, including STEM, arts, and communication. Designed to cater to the diverse interests of its participants, ASM provides a flexible structure that allows students to choose the type of internship that best aligns with their career goals.
ASM offers three types of internships:
Apprenticeships: Designed for students aged 14 and above, apprenticeships provide hands-on learning experiences in specific areas of interest. Participants engage in immersive activities that deepen their understanding and skills in a chosen field.
Assistantships: Targeted at students aged 16 and above, assistantships introduce participants to professional work environments. Students work on team-based projects under the guidance of mentors, gaining valuable collaborative experience.
Internships: Reserved for high school students aged 16 and above, these internships follow a more traditional structure, where students either lead team-based projects or develop their own. This experience is particularly valuable for those interested in leadership and project management.
All participants receive a stipend or hourly wage, recognizing their contributions and ensuring they are compensated for their efforts. ASM also emphasizes data-driven approaches to assess the impact of its programs.
Location: University of Chicago
Cost/Stipend: $4,800 stipend
Application Deadline: January 16, 2024
Dates/Duration: June 10, 2024 - August 2, 2024
Eligibility:
Open to all high school students.
Familiarity with at least one programming language and relevant coursework (e.g., computer science, statistics, math) is preferred.
The DSI Summer Lab at the University of Chicago is an intensive 10-week research program designed for high school and undergraduate students with a strong interest in applied, interdisciplinary data science research. This paid internship pairs participants with experienced data science mentors who guide them through a wide array of research methodologies, practices, and teamwork across various domains, including data science, computer science, climate policy, and energy systems.
Throughout the program, students dive deep into core data science techniques, receiving focused training in areas such as machine learning, data visualization, and statistical analysis. The program emphasizes practical experience, with students collaborating on research projects that address real-world challenges.
The culmination of the DSI Summer Lab experience is the presentation of each student's final research findings. Students showcase their work in a professional conference setting, where they have the opportunity to interact with peers, answer questions about their projects, and receive valuable feedback. This extensive experience not only bolsters students' technical skills but also prepares them for future academic and professional pursuits in data science and related fields.
Location: Various chapters across Illinois, including::
Cook County (City of Chicago and North Suburban Cook)
Lake County
McHenry County
DeKalb, Kendall, LaSalle, Lee, and Ogle counties
DuPage County and Kane County
Will County and South Suburban Cook County
Cost/Stipend: Varies based on internship
Application Deadline: September 30, 2024.
Dates/Duration: 2024-2025 session begins November 16, 2024. The program typically runs every Saturday for 1-2 years.
Eligibility: First-year applicants must:
Be at least 15 years of age.
Be entering sophomore or junior year of high school. Suburban chapters will accept seniors on a limited basis.
Have an academic GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 GPA scale. Students with a GPA below 3.0 can explain any unique circumstances on their application, and they may still be considered.
The Northwestern Medicine Governor Discovery Program is an immersive experience designed for high school students interested in exploring careers in healthcare. This program provides hands-on exposure to various medical fields, allowing students to gain practical experience and insights into the healthcare profession.
Participants in the program engage in a range of activities, including job shadowing healthcare professionals, participating in clinical skills workshops, and attending seminars that cover diverse medical specialties and healthcare topics. These experiences are designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare industry and to help students explore potential career paths in medicine, nursing, biomedical research, and other health-related fields.
Students will also receive mentorship and guidance from Northwestern Medicine professionals. By participating in the Governor Discovery Program, students not only enhance their understanding of the healthcare industry but also strengthen their college applications and gain valuable skills that will benefit their future careers.
Location: Chicago Architecture Center
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided.
Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
Program Dates: Summer 2024 - Spring 2025 (3 semesters)
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors enrolled in Chicago high schools.
The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) Teen Fellows program offers a unique opportunity for Chicago youth a chance to immerse themselves in the world of architecture and design. Spanning three semesters, this comprehensive program allows students to explore careers in architecture, earn college credit, and work alongside industry professionals.
As a Teen Fellow, you’ll engage in hands-on design projects that address local challenges, allowing you to build a robust portfolio of work. The program also provides training in digital design tools like SketchUp and AutoCAD, along with the creation of physical models using a variety of materials. These experiences not only develop your technical skills but also foster creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Note: This summary highlights some of the program's offerings. For a complete list, please visit their official site.
While the CAC’s Teen Fellows program is not a traditional internship, it provides a comprehensive stepping-stone for students interested in architecture. It provides a blend of academic learning and real-world experience.
Location: Various NASA facilities across the U.S. (with virtual options available)
Cost/Stipend: Varies based on internship
Application Deadline: Varies from internship to internship
Dates/Duration: Varies, typically in one of these three cohorts:
Fall: late August/early September to mid-December (16 weeks)
Spring: mid-January to early May (16 weeks)
Summer: late May/early June to August (10 weeks)
Eligibility:
High school students
Must be a U.S. Citizen
Have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA.
NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement offers a wide range of internships across their facilities in the United States. Whether you're near a NASA center or prefer a virtual setup, students have access to internships that span various fields, including engineering, data analysis, astrophysics, and supply chain management. You can browse their database to find internships tailored for high school students.
One standout option is the Supply Chain Quality internship, conducted entirely online. In this role, you will support the supply chain quality team by navigating databases, tracing, reporting, and analyzing data to help achieve team objectives. This hands-on experience is invaluable for those interested in learning about supply chain management and quality assurance within a renowned organization like NASA.
In addition to gaining practical experience, NASA internships offer students the chance to network with professionals, participate in educational workshops, and contribute to groundbreaking projects. The diversity of internships available ensures that students can find a program that aligns with their interests and career goals, making NASA an exceptional choice for those looking to launch their careers in STEM. For detailed guidance on the application process and tips to increase your chances of securing an internship, check out this ultimate guide to NASA internships.
Location: California, Illinois, Texas
Cost/Stipend: $2,000 (paid at the end of the internship); housing and transportation costs are not covered.
Application Deadline: January 12, 2024 (the program will continue to accept late applications until slots are filled)
Dates/Duration: June - August (6 weeks minimum)
Eligibility: High school seniors and undergraduate students.
The Judicial Intern Opportunity Program (JIOP) offered by the American Bar Association provides a prestigious opportunity for high school seniors and undergraduates who are traditionally underrepresented in the legal field. This competitive program places interns with state or federal judges, allowing them to gain firsthand experience in the judiciary and legal research.
During the internship, participants engage in substantial judicial research and writing, contributing directly to the judicial process. The experience offers a unique perspective on the workings of the legal system, making it an invaluable opportunity for those considering a career in law.
Beyond hands-on legal experience, the program includes comprehensive orientations and receptions in participating cities to welcome interns. These events provide excellent networking opportunities and often feature local law firms hosting additional networking activities and events. Interns may also have the opportunity to observe court proceedings, giving them a deeper understanding of courtroom dynamics and legal procedures.
10. The Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging’s Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: No Cost
Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
Program Dates: June 17 - June 28, 2024
Eligibility:
High school students over the age of 14 by the start of the program.
U.S. residents.
Student leads must also have a computer science background and may be undergraduate students; they must be California residents.
The Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging (AIMI) offers a 2-week virtual internship that is ideal for those interested in the intersection of AI and healthcare. The internship combines lectures on the fundamentals of AI in healthcare with hands-on research projects, allowing participants to apply what they learn in real time.
Students are mentored by Stanford researchers, who guide them through the intricacies of AI applications in medical imaging and diagnostics. For those seeking an even deeper experience, the program offers an option to extend the internship into an independent research project.
In addition to the regular intern roles, students can apply for the ‘Student Lead’ position. As a Student Lead, you assist in guiding projects under the mentorship of an AIMI researcher, providing leadership while gaining more in-depth experience. This program offers a robust introduction to AI in healthcare, making it an excellent stepping stone for students aspiring to careers at the cutting edge of technology and medicine.
One other option - Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research in STEM or other fields, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
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