Intro
Summer internships are one of the best ways to gain experience, figure out what you want to do, and meet professionals in your field.
A lot of people say you can't get a good internship with no experience. That's not true. The key is knowing where to look and how to present yourself.
When I first started applying to internships, mainly by cold-calling, I had no formal work experience. My first opportunity came through volunteering at an office in Brooklyn, where I helped with filing documents, fixing Excel sheets, and doing basic tasks.
It wasn't anything impressive on paper, but it taught me:
- How professional environments work
- How to communicate with adults
- How to take initiative
Most importantly, it became the perfect starting point for my resume and led to a longer-term internship.
So How Do You Get Your First Internship?
Build a Simple Target List
Start with 5 to 15 places so rejection doesn't matter.
Look for organizations that actually need help, not just big-name companies.
Good places to target:
- City Council or NY State Assembly offices
- Local nonprofits (health, environment, education)
- After-school programs or summer camps
- Community centers, libraries, churches, food banks
- Hospital volunteer programs, Red Cross, blood drives
How to Find Contacts (Fast)
Use Google.
Search things like:
- "nonprofits near me"
- "hospital volunteering"
If you only find a phone number, call and ask:
"Hi, I'm a high school student looking to volunteer over the summer. Who should I email about internships or volunteering?"
Sometimes they'll skip email entirely and talk to you right there.
Also, apply early. Waiting until July makes it much harder.
Prep Kit (Do This Once)
There are two ways to reach out:
- Cold call
Email Template
Use something like this:
Hi [Name],
My name is [name] and I am a [grade] at Tottenville High School. I am interested in [their field or mission] and would love to help in any way I can over the summer. I can assist with [skills or tasks]. I am reliable and can commit weekly hours.
I attached my resume below. If there's a good time to talk, I would really appreciate it.
Thank you,
[first name]
[email] | [phone number]
Calling Script
Speak normally, just slightly more professional.
Start simple:
Hi, my name is Alan. I was wondering if you have a volunteering program over the summer. I'm really interested in [something they do].
If they say no, don't hang up. Ask if they could still use help a few hours a week.
If they say yes, ask who to speak with next.
Keep it natural. Don't sound like a robot.
What If You're Nervous to Call?
This is normal.
When I helped my friend, he was nervous too. I had him practice by making it harder on purpose so he'd be ready.
You can do this by:
- Practicing with someone
- Saying it out loud to yourself
Two simple tips:
- Write your intro script clearly and read it a few times
- If your voice shakes, say "Sorry, I'm a little nervous"
People are usually understanding.
One Week Plan
If you want structure, follow this:
Day 1
- Make your resume
- Create an email signature
- Start a list of places
Day 2
- Find 15 leads
- Write a short note about each
Day 3
- Call or email them
- Aim for a mix of both
Final Notes
Once you get the opportunity:
- Don't worry if it's unpaid. Experience matters more
- Treat it like a real job
- Show up on time
- Ask questions
- Take initiative
Track everything you do:
- Filing
- Organizing
- Excel work
- Communication
You'll use all of this later.
Closing
That's it. It's actually simple.
You might get rejected a few times, but most people are nice about it.
By the end of it, you can start adding onto your resume.
