The Power of High School Internships

Internships represent the cornerstone of student work experiences. They give students a head start by helping them gain confidence, open their eyes, develop real-world skills, explore career paths, and build professional networks. But only 2% of students have access to these valuable opportunities.

“I really did learn a lot of new things I didn’t know before. The skills I have learned as well as the information will most definitely help me out later down the road in my future.”

— Intern Supported by Harraseeket

At The Harraseeket Foundation, we help young people imagine and build a brighter future. Our Imagining Your Future (IYF) program helps students achieve this with: 

(1) 1-on-1 and small group mentoring

(2) an innovative, career-oriented curriculum and workshops

(3) hands-on work experiences (internships, shadowing, field trips, vacation jobs and informational interviews). 

This unique and powerful combination fuels strong intergenerational connections, and helps students grow personally and professionally. 

Why Internships Matter

Studies show that:

• Internships lead to long-term success – high school interns are more likely to complete degree programs and receive higher starting salaries.

• Real-world experiences build career readiness and confidence – 87% of high school interns say their experience helped them choose a career. More than half of interns say that their internship improved their skills.

• Early career opportunities open doors for the future – 40% of high school internships lead to full time jobs.

Yet, most students miss out because they don’t know about opportunities or face barriers to accessing them. 

To learn more about why internships matter, visit this new page on our website.

“I met new people, learned to greet others, and learned about different cultures. An amazing experience”

– Intern Supported by Harraseeket

YOU can get involved!

Would you like to help students access these opportunities? As an employer, a potential mentor in IYF, or as a volunteer?

Please also donate to support our students!