Summer Internship/Job Advice for High School Students
Hi everyone! I’m currently a sophomore in high school and looking to secure a summer internship or job in finance. I’ve already reached out to two local financial advising companies to inquire about internship opportunities. I received polite responses from both, but unfortunately, they can’t accommodate me at this time.
While earning money is important, my main goal is to gain experience and start building my career early on. I’ve attached my resume and would greatly appreciate any feedback you have, even though I know it’s not formatted like a typical Wall Street resume. Additionally, I’d love any suggestions on other places to apply or people to contact. Thanks in advance for your help!
One response
It’s great to see your proactive approach towards gaining experience in finance at such a young age! Here are a few tips and suggestions that might help you in your search for an internship or job:
Broaden Your Search: While financial advising companies are a great start, consider looking into other areas of finance such as banks, credit unions, Accounting firms, and even non-profits that focus on financial literacy. You might also explore roles in budgeting or Bookkeeping.
Networking: Leverage your personal network—talk to family, friends, and teachers to see if anyone knows someone in the finance field. Networking can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t publicly listed.
Online Platforms: Websites like LinkedIn, Handshake, and Glassdoor can be great places to look for internships or entry-level positions. Make sure to create a LinkedIn profile to showcase your interests and goals.
Volunteering: If paid positions are hard to come by, consider volunteering for organizations that need help with their financial operations or community service initiatives that focus on financial education. This will still give you valuable experience and can enhance your resume.
Skill Development: Consider taking online courses or certifications relevant to finance (like basic Accounting, Excel skills, or introductory finance classes). Websites like Coursera or Khan Academy offer free resources that can strengthen your resume.
Customize Your Resume: It’s important to tailor your resume for each application. Include any relevant coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your interest in finance. Highlight soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Follow Up: After you apply or send inquiries, don’t hesitate to follow up politely after a week or two. This shows your genuine interest and initiative.
Consider Summer Programs: Look into summer programs or boot camps that focus on finance for high school students. These can provide insightful experience and might often lead to internships.
Stay Positive and Persistent: Rejections can be tough, but don’t get discouraged. Keep applying and learning from each experience.
Lastly, if you’d like specific feedback on your resume, feel free to attach it to your next post, and the community can provide more tailored insights! Good luck, and keep pushing towards your goals!