Seizing Opportunities in High School

Whether you notice it or not, it’s undeniable that going to a specialized high school has its advantages. To access the many resources available around you, you need to take your own initiative to find those opportunities and go through their application process. There are a few advantages to seeking those opportunities early (as soon as even freshmen year!):

1) You will have an extensive resume that reflects your hard work and involvement,

2) You will stand out amongst other applicants when applying for prestigious internships,

3)  You will garner invaluable work experience and other real-life practical skills needed in the professional working world.

In my three years of Tech, I’ve noticed that students tend to pursue four general opportunities: internships, pre-college classes, community service, and community-based organizations. 

Internships: Internships are amongst the most prestigious activities you can have in your resume. This is because some internships are basically professional work! You dip your toes into the working field you’re interested in and meet professionals who are doing what you dream to do! The best advice I can give you on internships is to do one each summer. Here are some general tips for you to get started on internships.

1. This website compiles a list of internships that you can surf through. Browse with caution, however. Make sure the internship is legit. Research the company or organization beforehand. https://www.internships.com/high-school/new-york-ny

2. Browse through Tech’s internship page. https://www.bths.edu/internships.jsp

3. Browse through Stuyvesant’s internship page. https://stuy.enschool.org/m/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=126662&type=d&termREC_ID=&pREC_ID=253940

4. The most prestigious internships usually come with an extensive application process. Some of the steps include a resume, essay, cover letter, transcript, and an interview. There are plenty of tools online to help you craft these things. If you ever need a second set of eyes to look over them, email me. I’m serious! (nmeher5626@bths.edu).

Precollege Classes:

1. CUNY has an extensive list of pre-college programs you can apply to. They give you the opportunity to take college courses and get college credits. Browse through this website: https://www.cuny.edu/academics/school-college-partnerships/college-now/summer-programs/. Although this website was compiled in 2018, most of these opportunities still stand. Make sure you individually search up these programs and their respective application process. 

2. Tech has an extensive list of precollege classes for FRESHMEN AND SOPHOMORES: https://www.bths.edu/m/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=350152&type=d&termREC_ID=&pREC_ID=660146

Community Service:

1. Community service is one of the most meaningful extracurriculars you can do. Some common types of volunteering are through Red Cross, Key Club, Soup Kitchens, your local library, etc. Tech has an extensive list of community service opportunities: https://www.bths.edu/GUIDANCE/Volunteer_Options.jsp.

Your future self will thank you if you are constantly pro-active. The extracurricular activities we've done have all enriched our high school experience.

By: Nasida Meher