Hey, teens! As you navigate the exciting journey of adolescence, you're probably starting to think about your future and the paths that will lead you to success. One incredible way to gain valuable experience, explore your interests, and set yourself up for a bright future is by embarking on an internship. At WIT - Whatever It Takes we actually hire teen interns and they do amazing things for the organization! Here’s why I think doing an internship is not just a checkbox on your to-do list but a transformative experience that can shape your future.

Real-world Experience & Skill Development

Internships can provide you a sneak peek into the real world, beyond the classroom. They offer a chance to apply the knowledge gained in school to actual work scenarios. Imagine getting a taste of your dream job before even graduating high school – internships make that possible! When I asked Natalie Robinson, a seventeen year old intern at WIT, why she wanted an internship, she said, “As someone getting ready to go to college and study marketing, I wanted to gain real world experience.” Since being an intern she’s run one of the WIT social media accounts, been a special guest host on the DO WIT podcast, and more! Natalie’s experience goes beyond textbooks, she gets to develop skills like: communication, time management, problem-solving, and teamwork. Through internships, teens gain practical skills that set them apart and contribute to their personal and professional development.

Resume Boost + Confidence Boost

In a competitive job market, a standout resume is your ticket to success. Internships give you that edge by showcasing practical experience. Employers often look for candidates who have hands-on knowledge, and having internships on your resume demonstrates your commitment to learning and growing. Stepping into the professional world might seem intimidating, but completing an internship boosts your confidence. As you overcome challenges, tackle real-world tasks, and receive positive feedback, you'll gain the confidence needed to excel in any future endeavor. While being an intern at WIT, Claire Su from Illinois, is now “not afraid to pursue my goals.” As a teen entrepreneur herself, working at WIT has helped her, “improve my communication skills, and learn more about entrepreneurship and business.” Claire runs one of the WIT social media accounts and the slack account! She also helps build brand partnerships.

Financial Insight

Internships can also provide a reality check on the financial aspects of your chosen career. Understanding the earning potential, job market demand, and day-to-day expenses associated with a particular profession can help you make informed decisions about your future education and career path. This financial awareness can help you make informed decisions about your educational and career paths. At WIT we pay our interns, so they get to start learning how they want to manage their own money, too!

Internships offer a wealth of benefits for teens. They provide teens a unique blend of hands-on experience, skill development, and networking opportunities that set the stage for a fulfilling and prosperous future. So, why wait? Take the plunge into the world of internships and unlock the doors to a world of possibilities! Your future self will thank you.