Now that COVID-19 border restrictions around the world are almost 100% lifted, it is an exciting time to explore new opportunities outside one’s home country. For international high school students who are enthusiastically preparing for higher education, internships in the United States can be a significant boost for their college preparation. Moreover, these internships can provide students a unique global exposure, skill development, networking opportunities, and personal enrichment, that can be truly life changing. Let’s talk about how a US internship can shape an international high school student’s future.
Resume/CV Enhancement and College Applications
A US internship can be a unique addition to a high school student’s resume or curriculum vitae. It showcases initiative, adaptability, and a commitment to self-improvement. For students considering higher education, internships provide a competitive edge in college applications by demonstrating practical experience and a proactive approach to learning.
Global Exposure and Cultural Enrichment
Participating in an internship in the US exposes international high school students in an environment of diversity in terms of cultures, languages, and perspectives. This experience facilitates an understanding of global dynamics and fosters adaptability and open-mindedness. Interaction with peers from all over the world is a great opportunity for learning and growth and helps students transform into global citizens ready to face the complexities of an interconnected world.
Skill Development Beyond the Classroom
US internships facilitate activities that allow students gain hands-on experience in their chosen field which cannot be found in school textbooks. For example, participants of the Global Leadership: Internship (GLI) of Stanley Prep with the World Federation of United Nations Association (WFUNA), during the first week of the program, attend workshops, seminars, and meetings with UN officials to observe in the discussions about global issues and to engage in the solution-seeking process. This is followed by immersion at political offices in Los Angeles for the next two weeks where they are able to get a first-hand view of what it is like to create the policies that shape societies. Such activities in a high school internship program can even groom young minds into future leaders. These opportunities expose students to real-world challenges, enabling them to hone skills such as communication, problem-solving, time management, and teamwork. The practical skills acquired during an internship are not only relevant for future professional endeavors but also contribute to personal growth and self-confidence.
Networking for Future Success
The professional relationships built during a US internship can leave a lasting impact on the future of international high school students. Networking within the industry gives them relevant insights into potential career paths, job market trends, and invaluable advice from experienced professionals. These connections can then lead into mentorship opportunities, references, and future employment prospects.
Personal Growth and Independence
Stepping into a foreign land for an internship as a high school student can be uncomfortable, but can be an opportunity to build resilience and adaptability. International high school students gain a sense of independence as they navigate daily life in a new culture. This experience fosters personal growth, self-discovery, and the ability to handle challenges with confidence.
For international high school students, a US internship transcends the boundaries of traditional education. The experience goes beyond textbooks and classrooms, offering exposure to global diversity, skill development, networking opportunities, and personal growth. The lessons learned, both professionally and personally, are invaluable assets that set students on a trajectory of success. As the world continues to globalize, the transformative power of a US internship equips these students with the tools they need to thrive in an interconnected and rapidly evolving future.
Are you an international high school student looking for a US internship opportunity and potentially gain a professional advantage for the future? We at Stanley Prep can help you! Contact us at info@stanleyprep.com or +1-310-320-5324 to learn more about our Global Leadership: Internship Program.