Top 20 Best Writing Internships for High School Students

For high school students passionate about writing, internships offer a unique opportunity to develop their skills, gain real-world experience, and build a portfolio that stands out.

Whether your interest lies in creative writing, content creation, copywriting, or technical writing, and whether you like to work in-person or online these can help regardless. 

This guide highlights 20 outstanding writing internships in 2024 for high school students, covering a range of opportunities from summer programs to remote positions. 

20 Best Writing Internships for High School Students

Dive into these opportunities to start your journey towards a successful writing career.

Why Pursue a Writing Internship in High School?

Participating in a writing internship during high school can be a transformative experience. Here’s why you should consider applying:

Gain Real-World Experience

Internships provide a hands-on learning environment where students can apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. This practical experience is crucial for understanding the dynamics of different writing fields, whether it’s creative, technical, or content writing.

Develop Critical Skills

From researching and drafting to editing and content management, writing internships help students develop a wide range of skills. These skills are not only applicable to writing but are also valuable in many other fields.

Network with Industry Professionals

Building connections with experienced writers and industry professionals can open doors to future opportunities. Internships provide a platform for networking and mentorship, which are essential for career growth.

Enhance College Applications

Having an internship on your resume demonstrates initiative, dedication, and a proactive approach to learning. It can significantly boost your college applications and set you apart from other candidates.

Explore Career Interests

Internships allow students to explore different aspects of writing and discover their interests. Whether it’s creative writing, technical writing, or content creation, internships can help you find your niche.

Best Writing Internships for High School Students

1. The New York Times NYC Summer Academy

The New York Times NYC Summer Academy offers high school students an unparalleled opportunity to work in one of the world’s leading publications. Interns participate in various writing projects, gaining valuable insight into high-level writing and editing.

This program is designed to challenge students and push them to develop their skills in a real-world environment.

Interns are given responsibilities that include researching and writing articles, assisting in the production of content, and learning the intricacies of the editorial process.

2. Northwestern Medill Cherubs Program

The Northwestern Medill Cherubs Program is a prestigious summer program that immerses high school students in intensive writing workshops.

Participants learn from seasoned professionals and professors, enhancing their skills in storytelling, editing, and publishing.

The program also includes seminars and field trips to media outlets, providing a comprehensive understanding of the writing industry.

3. The Student Press Law Center Internship

This internship provides students interested in media law and press freedom a chance to work with the SPLC, contributing to their news and legal guides. Interns learn about the legal challenges faced by writers and gain experience in legal research and writing.

This program is ideal for students considering a career in media law or investigative writing. Interns are involved in researching and writing articles on press freedom issues, assisting with legal inquiries, and contributing to educational resources for student writers.

4. Smithsonian Office of Internship Programs’ Benjamin Lawless Internship

The Smithsonian Office of Internship Programs offers the Benjamin Lawless Internship, providing high school students with the opportunity to engage in historical research and writing.

Interns work with curators and researchers to produce content for Smithsonian publications and exhibits.

This internship is perfect for students with a passion for history and writing, offering a unique blend of academic research and creative storytelling.

5. The Los Angeles Times High School Insider Summer Internship Program

The Los Angeles Times High School Insider Summer Internship Program gives students hands-on experience in writing and content creation.

Interns work alongside professional writers and editors, contributing to various sections of the publication.

The program includes workshops on writing techniques, editorial processes, and digital content management. This internship is ideal for students interested in pursuing a career in media and writing.

6. Pasquines Writing Internship

Pasquines offers a remote writing internship for high school students, focusing on political and social issues. Interns write articles, conduct interviews, and engage in research projects.

The program provides mentorship from experienced writers and opportunities to publish work on the Pasquines platform.

This internship is perfect for students with a keen interest in politics and social justice.

7. Building-U Writing Internship

Building-U offers a writing internship for high school students that focuses on content creation and educational writing. Interns produce articles, blogs, and educational materials for the Building-U website.

This internship is ideal for students interested in educational writing and content marketing.

8. Write the World Global Writing Program

Write the World offers a global writing program for high school students, providing opportunities to participate in writing competitions, workshops, and internships.

Interns work on various writing projects, receive feedback from peers and mentors, and have the chance to publish their work. The program emphasizes creative writing, storytelling, and community building.

9. 826 National Writing Internship

826 National offers writing internships for high school students across its various locations in the United States. Interns engage in creative writing, tutoring, and publishing projects.

The program includes workshops on writing techniques, editorial processes, and community outreach.

This internship is perfect for students who enjoy creative writing and mentoring younger students.

10. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Internship

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Internship provides high school students with the opportunity to engage in creative writing and literary analysis. Interns assist in organizing the awards program, reviewing submissions, and contributing to the Scholastic blog.

The program includes workshops on writing skills, literary analysis, and publishing. This internship is ideal for students passionate about creative writing and literary arts.

11. The Adroit Journal Summer Mentorship Program

The Adroit Journal offers a summer mentorship program for high school students interested in creative writing.

Interns receive one-on-one mentorship from established writers, participate in writing workshops, and have the opportunity to publish their work in The Adroit Journal. 

The program emphasizes poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, providing a nurturing environment for young writers.

12. The Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop

The Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop is an intensive summer program for high school students passionate about creative writing.

Participants engage in workshops, seminars, and readings, learning from experienced writers and professors. 

The program includes opportunities to write, revise, and publish work, providing a comprehensive introduction to the world of creative writing.

13. Creative Communication Poetry Contest Internship

Creative Communication offers a poetry contest internship for high school students, providing opportunities to write and submit poetry for publication.

Interns participate in workshops on poetry writing, editing, and publishing.

14. The Princeton University Summer Journalism Program

The Princeton University Summer Journalism Program offers a unique opportunity for high school students to engage in intensive writing workshops and seminars.

Interns learn from professional writers and professors, gaining skills in storytelling, editing, and publishing.

15. The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio offers a summer program for high school students passionate about creative writing.

Participants engage in workshops, seminars, and readings, learning from experienced writers and professors. 

16. The Emerging Writers Institute

The Emerging Writers Institute offers a summer program for high school students, focusing on creative writing and literary analysis.

Participants engage in workshops, seminars, and readings, learning from experienced writers and professors. 

17. The Interlochen Arts Academy Creative Writing Program

The Interlochen Arts Academy offers a creative writing program for high school students, providing opportunities to engage in workshops, seminars, and readings.

Interns learn from experienced writers and professors, gaining skills in storytelling, editing, and publishing. 

18. The Putney School Summer Arts Writing Program

The Putney School Summer Arts Writing Program offers a summer program for high school students, focusing on creative writing and literary analysis.

Participants engage in workshops, seminars, and readings, learning from experienced writers and professors. 

19. The Lighthouse Writers Workshop

The Lighthouse Writers Workshop offers a summer program for high school students, focusing on creative writing and literary analysis.

Participants engage in workshops, seminars, and readings, learning from experienced writers and professors. 

20. The Great Books Summer Program

The Great Books Summer Program offers a summer program for high school students, focusing on literature and writing. Participants engage in workshops, seminars, and readings, learning from experienced writers and professors.

The program includes opportunities to write, revise, and publish work, providing a comprehensive introduction to the world of creative writing.

How to Apply for Writing Internships

No idea on where to start? here is a little push ahead. Applying for writing internships can be competitive, but with the right approach, you can stand out. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Prepare a Strong Portfolio

Gather your best writing samples, multimedia projects, and any relevant work that showcases your skills. A well-organized portfolio can demonstrate your abilities and dedication to prospective internship programs.

Include a variety of pieces that highlight different aspects of your writing skills, such as essays, short stories, and articles. Make sure each piece is polished and free of errors.

2. Write a Compelling Resume and Cover Letter

Highlight your experiences, skills, and passion for writing. Your resume should include your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any extracurricular activities related to writing.

Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the internship, what you hope to gain from the experience, and how your skills and experiences make you a strong candidate.

3. Research Each Program Thoroughly

Understand the specifics of each internship and tailor your application accordingly. Learn about the organization’s mission, the type of work interns are expected to do, and any specific requirements for the application.

Tailor your application to each program so you can show that you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in the opportunity.

4. Seek Recommendations

Ask teachers, advisors, or mentors for letters of recommendation. Choose individuals who are familiar with your work and can speak to your skills, work ethic, and passion for writing. Provide them with a copy of your resume and cover letter, and give them plenty of time to write a thoughtful and detailed recommendation.

5. Practice Interview Skills

Be ready to discuss your work, interests, and why you’re a good fit for the internship. Prepare for common interview questions and practice answering them with a friend or family member. During the interview, be sure to highlight your skills and experiences, and explain how they make you a strong candidate for the internship. Also, have some questions ready to ask the interviewer about the program and the organization.

Bottom Line

Writing internships for high school students are a fantastic way to jumpstart your career in the literary world.

They offer unparalleled opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with industry professionals. Whether you’re aiming to become a creative writer, technical writer, or content creator, the experiences you gain through these internships will be invaluable, especially as a high school junior or senior.

So, start exploring these opportunities, prepare your applications, and take the first step towards a bright future in writing.