12 Paid Internships for High School Students in NYC

Are you a high school student in New York City eager to gain hands-on experience, build your resume, and earn while you learn? Paid internships offer more than just a paycheck—they're a gateway to discovering career interests, cultivating professional skills, and forming connections that can shape your academic and career trajectory.

In a city as dynamic as NYC, high school students have access to some of the most prestigious and impactful internship programs in the country. From researching climate change with NASA to supporting curators at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, these opportunities allow students to go beyond the classroom and step into real-world settings where learning becomes active and inspiring.

Whether you're passionate about science, the arts, public service, law, or technology, this comprehensive guide highlights 12 exceptional paid internships available to New York City high school students. Each program not only offers financial compensation but also provides invaluable exposure to future career paths, mentorship from professionals, and experiences that enhance your college applications.

In addition to listing each program, we’ve included key details such as eligibility, application deadlines, and official links to help you take the next step confidently.

By participating in a paid internship, you can:

• Discover what fields genuinely interest you
• Learn professional etiquette and time management
• Strengthen your college application with real-world experience
• Gain access to future opportunities, including research or scholarships
• Develop relationships with mentors and experts in your area of interest

As you explore the programs listed below, remember that preparation and passion are key. Tailor your applications thoughtfully, demonstrate curiosity, and don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance—whether through teachers, mentors, or structured programs like Nova Research and Nova Patent, which support students in developing original research under the guidance of mentors from Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, and Princeton.

Let’s dive in and explore 12 standout paid internships for NYC high school students that can help you turn curiosity into career-readiness.

1. Google High School Summer Internship

Overview:
Google’s high school internship opportunities aim to introduce students to the fast-paced, collaborative world of tech innovation. While these programs are not offered every year on a large scale, Google has historically run selective initiatives like the Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI) and Code Next, both of which focus on underrepresented students in STEM. These experiences are an invaluable gateway for high school students seeking early exposure to careers in computer science, engineering, UX design, and data science.

What You’ll Do:
Depending on the specific program, high school interns may:

• Participate in intensive coding workshops and problem-solving sessions
• Learn the fundamentals of software engineering, including Python or Java
• Collaborate on team-based projects mentored by Google professionals
• Attend tech talks with engineers, product designers, and program managers
• Develop digital solutions to real-world problems and present their work at a final showcase

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Programming fluency (Java, Python, or web development)
• Insight into product development and the software lifecycle
• Exposure to design thinking, machine learning, or user experience (UX) design
• Professional communication, collaboration, and presentation skills

Eligibility:
Eligibility varies by program, but many are aimed at:

• Rising high school seniors (especially those from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM)
• Students with prior exposure to computer science courses or extracurriculars
• Demonstrated interest in coding, tech clubs, robotics, or digital innovation

Dates & Location:
Programs typically run during the summer (June to August). While most internships were historically in-person at Google offices such as NYC or Mountain View, recent years have seen hybrid and virtual options as well.

Compensation:
Yes, Google internships and enrichment programs for high schoolers are paid or provide stipends. CSSI, for example, covers housing and offers financial support.

Pro Tip:
If you’re interested in a future Google internship but no openings are currently available, build your portfolio by exploring coding bootcamps like Girls Who Code, Code Nation, or Nova Research for STEM projects. These experiences can help demonstrate initiative and technical ability when future Google programs reopen.

2. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) High School Internship

Overview:
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) offers one of the most immersive and creative internship experiences for high school students interested in visual arts, museum studies, and cultural institutions. Based in Midtown Manhattan, MoMA’s High School Internship program provides students with a behind-the-scenes look at how a world-renowned museum operates—offering access to curators, educators, and museum professionals. The program is designed not only to introduce students to the world of modern and contemporary art, but also to develop their leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills.

What You’ll Do:
Interns at MoMA engage in a wide variety of hands-on and collaborative activities, including:

• Assisting with teen events and public programs hosted at the museum
• Touring the galleries and studying key works of art with guidance from educators
• Interviewing staff across departments such as curatorial, marketing, design, and visitor engagement
• Participating in discussions on equity, accessibility, and museum ethics
• Working on individual or group projects that may include digital storytelling or gallery guides

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Deep understanding of art history and the role of museums in society
• Public speaking and presentation development through gallery tours or youth-led events
• Insight into careers in museum education, curation, conservation, and administration
• Collaboration, time management, and creative problem-solving

Eligibility:
MoMA internships are open to high school students who:

• Are enrolled in a New York City high school (typically juniors or seniors)
• Have an interest in visual art, museums, education, or public engagement
• Can commit to the full duration of the internship (after school or during summer, depending on the program cycle)

Dates & Location:
MoMA offers both fall/spring after-school internships and summer intensive internships.
Location: The Museum of Modern Art, 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

Compensation:
Yes, all MoMA high school internships are paid. Students receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.

Pro Tip:
Use your application to show not only your interest in art but also your curiosity about how museums work. MoMA values diverse voices and perspectives—whether you’re an artist, a writer, an organizer, or someone new to the art world, what matters most is your willingness to learn and contribute.

3. New York City Mayor's Office High School Internship Program

Overview:
The New York City Mayor’s Office offers a structured and enriching internship program for high school students who want to understand how local government works and how public policies are shaped. This is one of the few opportunities in the country where high school students can gain real-world experience inside city government—collaborating with public servants, attending policy briefings, and contributing to the functioning of departments that directly serve New Yorkers.

Whether you’re interested in law, education, environmental justice, communications, or city planning, this internship provides a hands-on introduction to public service and civic leadership in one of the world’s most complex cities.

What You’ll Do:
Interns are assigned to various offices within the Mayor’s Office, including (but not limited to):

• Communications and Media
• Office of Sustainability
• Special Projects and Innovation
• Human Resources
• Immigrant Affairs
• Economic Opportunity

Responsibilities may include conducting policy research, drafting memos or reports, attending department meetings, helping coordinate events, and supporting public outreach initiatives. Interns are encouraged to contribute ideas, collaborate with peers, and build leadership skills while exploring how local government functions on a day-to-day basis.

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Policy research and public administration fundamentals
• Professional communication and networking
• Project planning and event coordination
• Exposure to complex city systems, equity work, and urban challenges

Eligibility:

• Must be a current high school, undergraduate, or graduate student
• Must be a resident of one of New York City’s five boroughs
• Demonstrated interest in public service, community involvement, or civic engagement

Dates & Location:

• The internship typically runs for 9 weeks, from early June through early August
• Interns work Monday through Friday
• Location: NYC City Hall and affiliated municipal buildings (varies by department)

Compensation:
Yes. Interns are paid $16/hour, making this one of the most accessible and equitable civic internships for NYC students.

Pro Tip:
This internship is competitive, so tailor your application by showcasing any community service, school leadership, or policy-related experience. Even involvement in student government or Model UN can help your profile stand out. During the internship, attend as many speaker sessions and inter-departmental events as possible—they’re designed to help you network and explore potential career paths in government and public service.

4. Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) High School Summer Program

Overview:
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, offers an exceptional Precollege Summer Program that introduces high school students to the world of fashion, design, business, and visual arts. Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Fashion District, FIT’s program gives students the rare opportunity to experience college-level coursework while tapping into New York City’s vibrant creative energy.

Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a fashion designer, graphic artist, stylist, or fashion marketer, this program allows you to explore your interests with real-world projects, expert faculty, and industry-grade tools.

What You’ll Do:
Students can enroll in credit or non-credit courses that cover topics such as:

• Fashion design and illustration
• Fashion forecasting
• Styling, sewing, and draping
• Interior design and architecture
• Portfolio development for art and design schools
• Advertising and fashion business essentials
• Digital photography and Photoshop

Courses are taught by FIT instructors, many of whom are active professionals in the fashion and design industries. Some classes culminate in final projects, portfolios, or student showcases—helpful assets for college applications or future internships.

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Foundational and advanced design techniques
• Concept development and creative direction
• Insight into fashion merchandising and trend analysis
• Portfolio-building and critique experience
• Time management and self-discipline in a collegiate environment

Eligibility:

• Open to students entering grades 9–12
• Some courses require previous art or design experience; others are beginner-friendly
• Students must meet the course-specific prerequisites listed on the application page

Dates & Location:

• Offered in July and August (varies by course)
• Held at FIT’s campus: 227 W 27th Street, New York, NY 10001
• Course formats may include full-day, half-day, or weekly sessions

Paid?
Yes. These are tuition-based programs—however, partial scholarships are available to NYC high school students who demonstrate financial need. Be sure to check scholarship deadlines when applying.

Pro Tip:
If you’re building a creative portfolio for college admissions (e.g., applying to Parsons, RISD, Pratt, or FIT itself), these courses are an excellent opportunity to produce high-quality pieces under professional guidance. For students interested in applying to Nova Patent or Nova Research with a creative innovation or fashion-based project, FIT’s summer classes can provide a technical foundation that strengthens your research and design proposal.

5. Metropolitan Museum of Art High School Internship

Overview:
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)—one of the world’s most renowned cultural institutions—offers paid high school internships that provide an immersive look into art history, curatorial work, and museum operations. These internships give NYC students the rare chance to contribute to real projects across departments including education, conservation, digital media, visitor services, and more.

With access to The Met’s vast collections—from ancient artifacts to contemporary installations—interns develop a unique perspective on how museums preserve and present global art and culture.

What You’ll Do:
As a high school intern at The Met, you’ll:

• Collaborate on cross-departmental projects and presentations
• Learn from museum professionals through behind-the-scenes tours, workshops, and panel discussions
• Research artworks and create public-facing materials such as zines, videos, or gallery talks
• Participate in a culminating group project with fellow interns
• Explore careers in museum education, design, conservation, and nonprofit leadership

Internships are structured to promote mentorship and skill-building, and many include opportunities for student-led exhibitions or programs.

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Public speaking and presentation skills
• Research and critical analysis of art and historical objects
• Team collaboration in professional settings
• Creative thinking and content development
• Networking with professionals in the arts and cultural sectors

Eligibility:

• Open to current high school sophomores and juniors (from NYC)
• Must be enrolled in a high school located in the five boroughs of New York City
• Strong interest in art, history, education, or museum work
• Prior museum experience is not required

Dates & Location:

• Internships are offered in two formats:
  • Spring Internship: Saturdays from February to May
  • Summer Internship: Five days a week for six weeks (typically July–August)
• Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028

Paid?
Yes. Students receive a paid stipend for their participation, and MetroCards are often provided to support transportation.

Pro Tip:
If you’re interested in the intersection of humanities research and creative expression, The Met internship can be a springboard into deeper inquiry. Past Nova Scholar participants have used similar museum-based experiences as the foundation for cultural analysis, exhibition design projects, and art criticism research through Nova Research or Nova Patent. This internship is ideal preparation for students considering majors in art history, anthropology, or museum studies.

6. Columbia University High School Summer Research Program

Overview:
The Columbia University High School Summer Research Program offers highly motivated students the chance to engage in authentic academic research at one of the Ivy League’s top research institutions. These selective programs allow students to work alongside Columbia-affiliated faculty, graduate students, and researchers, providing a true taste of college-level scholarship.

With access to state-of-the-art labs, libraries, and academic resources, students dive deep into areas such as biomedical science, environmental studies, psychology, neuroscience, data science, and more. The program emphasizes inquiry-based learning and the development of critical thinking skills.

What You’ll Do:
Depending on the program you apply to, participants may:

• Assist with live research projects led by university scientists
• Conduct experiments, analyze datasets, or contribute to literature reviews
• Attend seminars, workshops, and lab tours designed for pre-college scholars
• Present findings in a final symposium or research showcase
• Gain mentorship from leading scholars and early-career researchers

Past research topics have included genetic mutations, cognitive development in adolescence, urban sustainability, and the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Advanced research methodology and lab skills
• Scientific writing and formal academic communication
• Literature review and citation management
• Collaboration in research environments
• Public speaking and presentation strategies

Eligibility:

• Generally open to rising juniors and seniors
• Competitive academic record, particularly in math and science
• Strong interest in pursuing research or a STEM-related field
• Some programs may require teacher recommendations, transcripts, and a personal statement

Dates & Location:

• Typically held from late June to early August (6–8 weeks)
• On-site at Columbia University’s Morningside Heights or Medical Center campus in Manhattan, New York

Paid?
Yes. While Columbia offers a mix of tuition-based and stipend-supported research programs, select fully funded research programs—such as the SPREP (Summer Public Health Research Internship) and Zuckerman Brain Institute’s BRAINYAC (in collaboration with Columbia)—offer stipends to eligible students. Be sure to review the program-specific funding details.

Pro Tip:
If you’re considering careers in research, medicine, or academia, Columbia’s research opportunities can be a gateway to future fellowships, mentorship, and innovation. These programs also align well with mentorship-based experiences like Nova Research and Nova Patent, where students work one-on-one with mentors from institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, and MIT to develop original research projects and intellectual portfolios.

7. New York Public Library High School Internship (Teen Reading Ambassadors)

Overview:
The New York Public Library (NYPL) Teen Reading Ambassadors Program offers high school students a unique, paid internship experience that blends literacy promotion, leadership development, and community engagement. Located within one of the nation’s most iconic library systems, this internship empowers students to serve as role models for younger readers while gaining professional skills in public service and communication.

As a Teen Reading Ambassador, you’ll become a vital part of the NYPL’s mission to foster a love of reading and learning among youth across New York City’s boroughs.

What You’ll Do:

• Facilitate storytime sessions and reading activities for younger children
• Assist with library programming and youth events
• Help promote library services and reading initiatives through peer outreach
• Collaborate with fellow interns and library staff on community projects
• Participate in training workshops on literacy, communication, and leadership

Interns are placed at participating NYPL branch libraries and receive guidance from experienced librarians and educators.

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Public speaking and presentation confidence
• Youth engagement and mentorship experience
• Event planning and group facilitation
• Leadership and community service mindset
• Deeper understanding of library operations and literacy education

Eligibility:

• Open to New York City high school students, typically ages 14–19
• Must have a passion for reading, working with children, and serving their local community
• Applications may ask for a short essay, teacher recommendation, and transcript

Dates & Location:

• Program typically runs during the summer and academic year, with flexible hours during school terms
• Interns are placed at participating NYPL branch locations across the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island

Paid?
Yes. Teen Reading Ambassadors receive hourly pay or a stipend, depending on the program cycle and budget. Compensation aligns with New York City youth employment standards.

Pro Tip:
This internship is an excellent opportunity for students interested in education, library science, child development, or public service. It’s also a great fit for students applying to humanities and social impact programs who want to demonstrate leadership in community literacy. If you’re looking to take your experience even further, consider developing a community-based reading initiative or research project through a program like Nova Research—guided by mentors from elite institutions such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, and Princeton.

8. American Museum of Natural History High School Internship (Saltz Internship Program)

Overview:
The Saltz Internship Program at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) is one of the most enriching opportunities for high school students in New York City who are passionate about science, education, and museum work. This paid internship trains students to become youth science educators, guiding museum visitors through exhibits, facilitating discussions, and making scientific knowledge accessible and engaging.

Saltz Interns act as public-facing ambassadors of the museum’s science and education mission, helping visitors of all ages connect with complex topics in biology, anthropology, paleontology, astrophysics, and more.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead informal, interactive conversations with museum guests at key exhibits
• Help visitors engage with scientific ideas through props and real-world examples
• Collaborate with museum educators and fellow interns to develop communication skills
• Participate in weekly training seminars and science workshops
• Explore different STEM disciplines and career pathways in museum and science education

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Science communication and public speaking
• Team collaboration and peer mentorship
• Knowledge of museum operations and exhibit design
• Deeper understanding of STEM fields and their relevance to public education
• Customer service and interpersonal engagement

Eligibility:

• Open to current 10th–12th grade high school students in New York City
• Students must have an interest in science, education, and working with the public
• Prior museum or science experience is not required, but curiosity and enthusiasm are essential

Dates & Location:

• Internships run during the academic year (fall–spring) or summer
• Located at the American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024
• Interns must commit to a regular weekly schedule (typically afternoons and weekends during the school year or full days during the summer)

Paid?
Yes. The Saltz Internship Program offers a stipend for students who successfully complete the program.

Pro Tip:
If you love explaining ideas, enjoy being in a museum setting, or are curious about careers in science education, the Saltz Internship is a great place to start. Students interested in taking their experience further can consider independent research projects in museum studies, science education, or environmental science through mentorship-based programs like Nova Research—offered by Nova Scholar Education, where high schoolers work with mentors from Stanford, Yale, Harvard, MIT, and Princeton.

9. NYU High School Academy

Overview:
The NYU High School Academy, run by the School of Professional Studies (SPS) at New York University, offers high school students the chance to dive into professional and academic subjects that go beyond the standard high school curriculum. These intensive, non-credit courses are designed to enhance college readiness, help students explore potential career paths, and provide an early taste of university-level learning.

Whether you're interested in real estate, coding, sports management, business, media, psychology, or global affairs, the NYU High School Academy provides a gateway into real-world disciplines taught by experienced faculty and professionals.

What You’ll Do:

• Participate in interactive classes and seminars led by NYU instructors and industry experts
• Explore real-world case studies, group projects, and guest lectures
• Engage with topics like digital marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, health care, and more
• Collaborate with like-minded peers in a pre-college environment
• Learn how to navigate college-level discussions and expectations

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Subject-matter exposure to college and career fields
• Academic writing, critical thinking, and communication skills
• Confidence in a university-style learning setting
• Insight into what it’s like to be a student at a major research university like NYU

Eligibility:

• Open to rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
• Some courses may require specific prerequisites or strong academic interest in the subject matter
• Available to students locally in NYC as well as nationally and internationally through online formats

Dates & Location:

• Programs are offered in spring, summer, and fall terms
• Students can choose between in-person courses held at NYU’s Manhattan campus or online courses
• Summer courses typically run for one to two weeks

Paid?
Yes. While these are paid, tuition-based programs, many offer need-based scholarships or financial aid to qualified students.

Pro Tip:
If you're thinking about a specific major in college or want to understand how classroom concepts translate into real careers, NYU’s program is a strong place to start. Students who complete NYU Academy courses often use their experience as a launchpad for independent research or passion projects, especially when paired with mentorship programs like Nova Research or Nova Patent, which provide one-on-one guidance from faculty affiliated with MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Yale, and Princeton.=

10. Brooklyn Botanic Garden High School Internship

Overview:
The Garden Apprentice Program (GAP) at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) is one of New York City’s most respected environmental education programs for high school students. This paid internship blends hands-on horticultural experience with environmental science education, leadership training, and public engagement. Over the course of several months, participants learn the fundamentals of urban agriculture, sustainability, and youth education—right in the heart of one of Brooklyn’s most beautiful green spaces.

What You’ll Do:

• Work side-by-side with BBG educators, gardeners, and environmental stewards
• Learn how to plant, cultivate, and maintain vegetable beds and garden spaces
• Assist with children's education programs and garden tours
• Take part in workshops on botany, food justice, conservation, and sustainability
• Participate in field trips and career panels related to environmental science and horticulture

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Practical knowledge of organic gardening and urban farming techniques
• Public speaking, leadership, and mentoring experience
• A deeper understanding of ecological systems and environmental justice
• Experience in community education and science communication

Eligibility:

• Open to students entering grades 8 through 12 (with tiered roles based on grade level)
• Applicants must be New York City residents who can commit to working weekends or after school and throughout the summer
• Prior experience is not required, but a strong interest in nature, gardening, and science is encouraged

Program Structure:
The program is structured into four apprentice levels, allowing students to return year after year to take on more advanced roles, including peer mentoring and leading workshops for younger children.

Dates & Location:

• GAP typically begins in early spring and runs through the summer and into the fall
• Most activities take place on-site at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, located at 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225

Paid?
Yes. GAP participants receive stipends based on their program level and time commitment.

Pro Tip:
GAP is an excellent internship for students interested in environmental science, urban sustainability, or science education. It also complements science fair projects or research experiences—especially those pursued through programs like Nova Research, where students can explore topics such as urban ecology, biodiversity, or climate resilience with expert mentorship from scholars at MIT, Stanford, Yale, Harvard, and Princeton.

11. Bronx Zoo High School Internship

Overview:
The Bronx Zoo, operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), offers dynamic high school internship programs that provide hands-on experience in wildlife conservation, ecology, and environmental education. These programs are ideal for students passionate about animal care, field biology, and environmental science. Through immersive learning opportunities, interns not only explore the workings of one of the world’s most renowned zoos but also contribute to meaningful conservation efforts.

What You’ll Do:

• Participate in fieldwork and ecological data collection in New York City parks and green spaces
• Engage in scientific research focused on urban wildlife and biodiversity
• Assist Bronx Zoo staff in environmental education, community engagement, and visitor services
• Explore conservation careers through workshops, guest speakers, and behind-the-scenes experiences
• Present research findings in a final symposium or conference

Featured Program: Project TRUE
One of the most prominent internships is Project TRUE (Teens Researching Urban Ecology), a collaboration between the Bronx Zoo and Fordham University. Students conduct real scientific research and learn field methods while investigating urban ecosystems—such as insect biodiversity, habitat quality, or animal behavior.

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Research methods and field survey techniques
• Data analysis and presentation skills
• Public speaking and environmental outreach experience
• A deep understanding of conservation challenges in urban environments

Eligibility:

• Open to rising high school juniors and seniors (grades 11–12)
• Must be New York City residents and able to commute to the Bronx Zoo and other field locations
• Students from underrepresented backgrounds in science are strongly encouraged to apply

Dates & Location:

• Project TRUE typically runs from June through August
• Most activities take place at the Bronx Zoo (2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460) and in partner field sites across NYC

Paid?
Yes. Interns receive a stipend for their participation, and MetroCards are often provided for commuting.

Pro Tip:
If you're interested in pursuing a future in zoology, conservation biology, or environmental science, this internship is an excellent starting point. It also pairs well with research programs like Nova Research or Nova Patent, which allow students to turn conservation interests into publishable projects or innovation portfolios under the guidance of mentors from top-tier universities such as Harvard, Stanford, Yale, MIT, and Princeton.

12. New-York Historical Society High School Internship

Overview:
The Student Historian Internship Program at the New-York Historical Society offers high school students a chance to explore U.S. and New York City history through original research, public history projects, and museum education. This paid internship is designed for students with a strong interest in the humanities, social studies, and civic engagement, and provides a rare opportunity to contribute directly to the work of one of the nation’s oldest museums.

What You’ll Do:

• Conduct historical research using primary and secondary sources
• Collaborate with museum staff and curators on educational and exhibition projects
• Create digital or physical content (such as blog posts, videos, or educational materials) for public audiences
• Attend seminars and workshops on American history, archival research, and museum interpretation
• Present your findings and projects at a final symposium attended by museum professionals and peers

Signature Focus:
Interns often explore topics related to social justice, civil rights, immigration, and the lived experiences of marginalized communities in American history. Each cohort is assigned a unifying theme—past themes have included “Women and the American Story” or “History Responds: The Role of the Historian in Times of Crisis.”

Skills You’ll Gain:

• Historical research and critical analysis
• Public speaking and project presentation
• Archival literacy and museum studies fundamentals
• Team collaboration and professional communication

Eligibility:

• Open to students in grades 10–12 who live in New York City
• Ideal for students interested in history, political science, education, law, or museum work
• Applications are competitive and typically require short essays and a teacher recommendation

Dates & Location:

• Internships take place during the academic year (fall or spring) and sometimes in the summer
• Located at the New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024
• Interns generally meet once or twice a week after school, with occasional weekend programming

Paid?
Yes. Interns receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program. MetroCards for transportation may also be provided.

Pro Tip:
If you’re considering a future in the humanities, a public history internship like this one offers both academic enrichment and civic relevance. It also pairs well with interdisciplinary mentorship programs such as Nova Research, where students can expand their historical inquiry into research papers, oral histories, or public storytelling projects, guided by scholars from Harvard, Princeton, Yale, MIT, and Stanford.
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Bonus Opportunity: Nova Scholar Research Program

For students who are passionate about independent inquiry and academic exploration, the Nova Scholar Research Program offers a prestigious alternative—or supplement—to traditional internships. While these programs are not classified as internships, they provide high school students with rigorous research training, 1:1 mentorship, and the opportunity to create original, publishable work.

Program Highlights:

• Nova Fundamentals (1 month): Designed for middle school students to build foundational research and writing skills.
• Nova Research (2.5–5 months): Tailored for middle and high school students eager to explore a topic deeply through structured mentorship, literature reviews, and independent research.
• Nova Patent (2–4 months): A unique program where high school students develop original inventions and pursue intellectual property filings with expert guidance.

Mentorship You Can Trust:
Nova Scholar exclusively partners with mentors from Stanford, Harvard, MIT, Yale, and Princeton—ensuring students are learning directly from academic leaders and innovators. These programs are particularly impactful for students interested in developing a research portfolio for college applications, science fairs, or journal submissions.

How It Complements Internships:
If you’re applying to competitive internships—such as Columbia’s summer research program, NASA GISS, or the American Museum of Natural History—completing a Nova Scholar project can demonstrate intellectual maturity, self-motivation, and subject-area depth. Nova students often use their final projects as writing samples, portfolio pieces, or starting points for future scholarly work.
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Tips for Securing a High School Internship in NYC

Landing a competitive internship as a high school student in New York City requires more than just interest—it takes preparation, persistence, and strategy. Here are actionable tips to increase your chances of success:

1. Start Early:
Many internships open applications 3–6 months before the program begins. Some, like NASA GISS or the Simons Summer Research Program, have January–February deadlines, so begin researching opportunities in the fall.

2. Tailor Your Application Materials:
Avoid generic submissions. Customize your resume and cover letter for each internship by aligning your experiences with the organization's mission. Highlight relevant coursework, volunteer work, or personal projects.

3. Request Strong Recommendations:
Reach out to teachers, counselors, or mentors who know you well and can speak specifically to your work ethic, skills, and passion. Give them 2–3 weeks' notice and share context about the program you’re applying to.

4. Prepare for Interviews:
Treat internship interviews as professional conversations. Research the organization thoroughly, prepare three thoughtful questions, and practice common behavioral questions (“Tell me about a time you solved a problem...”).

5. Follow Up:
After submitting your application or completing an interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Express appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

6. Document Your Experience:
Whether accepted or not, keep a record of your applications, feedback received, and any insights from the process. This will help you improve over time and build a compelling academic story for your college applications.

Turning Experience into Opportunity

High school is more than just academics—it’s a critical time to discover your passions, build real-world skills, and begin shaping your future. Paid internships in New York City offer motivated students a unique platform to learn beyond the classroom, engage with leading institutions, and gain clarity on potential career paths. Whether you're helping curate exhibits at The Met, analyzing data with Columbia researchers, or facilitating literacy programs at the New York Public Library, these opportunities are more than résumé builders—they’re catalysts for growth, confidence, and intellectual maturity.

As you consider which internships align best with your interests and goals, remember that every experience—no matter how big or small—contributes to your evolving academic journey. Use these internships not only to gain experience but also to ask better questions, connect with mentors, and challenge yourself to grow.

For those seeking a more research-driven path, programs like Nova Research and Nova Patent offer personalized mentorship and the opportunity to design original projects guided by scholars from the world’s top universities. Whether combined with an internship or pursued independently, these research experiences can add depth to your academic profile and help you stand out in college admissions.

In a city full of opportunity, your next step could be the one that defines your path. Be proactive, stay curious, and apply with confidence—because the most impactful learning happens when you step outside your comfort zone and into the real world.