High school internships offer students invaluable experiences that bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.

In Virginia, a diverse range of opportunities allows students to explore various fields, build professional skills, and gain insight into potential career paths.

Whether you’re interested in science, technology, the arts, or community service, there’s an internship in Virginia that can match your passions.

This guide will walk you through five standout opportunities, helping you find the perfect match to kickstart your career journey.

1. Jefferson Lab High School Summer Honors Program Overview: The Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility, commonly known as Jefferson Lab, offers a prestigious High School Summer Honors Program for students interested in physics, engineering, and computer science.

Located in Newport News, Virginia, this program allows students to work alongside scientists and engineers on real-world projects related to nuclear physics research.

Why It’s Valuable: This internship provides students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research at a national laboratory.

Interns gain hands-on experience in scientific research, data analysis, and technology development, all while working in a professional research environment.

The program is ideal for students considering careers in physics, engineering, or computer science.

Application Process: Applicants must submit a detailed application that includes a resume, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

The selection process is competitive, with a focus on students who have demonstrated strong academic performance in STEM subjects and a passion for research.

Duration: The program typically runs for 8 weeks during the summer.

Interns work full-time at Jefferson Lab, participating in research projects and attending seminars.

What You’ll Learn: Advanced research techniques in physics and engineering Hands-on experience with data analysis and technology development Collaboration with scientists and engineers in a professional setting Insight into careers in scientific research and engineering

2. Virginia Aerospace Science and Technology Scholars (VASTS) Program Overview: The Virginia Aerospace Science and Technology Scholars (VASTS) Program is an interactive online course combined with a residential summer academy at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia.

This program is designed for high school juniors interested in aerospace science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Why It’s Valuable: VASTS offers students a unique opportunity to learn about aerospace science and technology through hands-on projects and real-world applications.

Participants work on mission design challenges, collaborate with NASA scientists and engineers, and gain a deep understanding of the aerospace industry.

The program also provides valuable experience for students interested in pursuing careers in aerospace engineering, space science, or technology.

Application Process: Students must apply online by submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays.

The program is highly competitive and seeks students who have demonstrated academic excellence in STEM subjects and a strong interest in aerospace science.

Duration: The VASTS Program begins with an online course during the school year, followed by a one-week residential summer academy at NASA Langley Research Center.

What You’ll Learn: Aerospace science and engineering principles Hands-on experience with mission design and technology development Collaboration with NASA scientists and engineers Insight into careers in aerospace science and engineering

3. Inova Health System Summer Student Internship Program Overview: The Inova Health System offers a Summer Student Internship Program for high school students interested in healthcare and medicine.

Located in Northern Virginia, this program provides students with the opportunity to work in a hospital setting, shadow healthcare professionals, and learn about different medical specialties.

Why It’s Valuable: This internship is ideal for students considering careers in healthcare or medicine.

Interns gain exposure to various medical fields, learn about patient care and hospital operations, and develop skills essential for success in the healthcare industry.

The program also includes opportunities to interact with patients and participate in community health initiatives.

Application Process: Applicants must submit a resume, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

The program seeks students who have demonstrated a strong interest in healthcare and a commitment to helping others.

Duration: The internship typically runs for 8-10 weeks during the summer.

Interns work part-time or full-time at Inova hospitals, participating in clinical and administrative activities.

What You’ll Learn: Exposure to different medical specialties and healthcare careers Understanding of patient care and hospital operations Hands-on experience in a clinical setting Networking with healthcare professionals and hospital staff

4. Library of Congress High School Internships Overview: The Library of Congress in Washington, D.

C. , offers high school internships that provide students with the opportunity to explore careers in library science, history, and government.

Although technically located in Washington, D.

C. , these internships are easily accessible to students in Northern Virginia.

Interns work on various projects, including archival research, digital preservation, and public programming.

Why It’s Valuable: This internship is ideal for students interested in history, government, or library science.

Interns gain hands-on experience in archival research, document preservation, and public service.

The program also provides valuable insight into the workings of one of the world’s largest libraries and the role it plays in preserving history and providing access to information.

Application Process: Applicants must submit a resume, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

The program seeks students who have demonstrated strong academic performance, particularly in history and the humanities.

Duration: The internship typically runs for 6-8 weeks during the summer.

Interns work part-time or full-time at the Library of Congress, participating in various projects and activities.

What You’ll Learn: Archival research and document preservation techniques Understanding of library science and public service Insight into the role of the Library of Congress in preserving history Networking with professionals in history, government, and library science

5. Virginia Tech C-Tech² Program Overview: The C-Tech² (Computers and Technology at Virginia Tech) Program is a summer camp designed for high school girls interested in engineering, technology, and computer science.

Held on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, this program offers hands-on activities, workshops, and projects that introduce students to various fields of engineering and technology.

Why It’s Valuable: C-Tech² provides an encouraging environment for young women to explore careers in engineering and technology.

Participants work on projects in areas such as robotics, programming, and electronics, gaining valuable experience and confidence in STEM fields.

The program also offers a taste of college life, as students live on campus and interact with Virginia Tech faculty and students.

Application Process: Students must apply online by submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays.

The program is competitive and seeks students who have demonstrated academic excellence in STEM subjects and a strong interest in engineering and technology.

Duration: The C-Tech² Program is a two-week residential camp held during the summer.

Students live on the Virginia Tech campus and participate in a full schedule of classes, workshops, and activities.

What You’ll Learn: Engineering and technology principles Hands-on experience with robotics, programming, and electronics Collaboration and teamwork in a university setting Exploration of potential careers in engineering and technology Conclusions If you would like to learn more about how to get internships, watch this video.

This guide from Rishab, a Harvard student, will help you land an internship https://www. youtube. com/watch?v=zqqtdxsCBT0&t=1s.