The Ultimate Guide to MIT's Summer High School Internship Program

If you’re a high school student interested in pursuing a career in STEM, The MIT Summer High School Internship Program should definitely be on your radar! This program will immerse you in research at one of the world's leading STEM institutions. You will get the chance to engage in project-based activities under the guidance of MIT researchers and faculty, gaining hands-on experience in fields that interest you.

Participating in this internship at MIT can also significantly bolster your college applications. Colleges and universities recognize the rigor and competitiveness of MIT programs, and successfully completing such an internship demonstrates your commitment to your field of interest, as well as your ability to thrive in challenging environments. This will strengthen your academic profile, provide you with content to talk about for your personal statement and help you stand out amongst your peers!

What is MIT's Summer High School Internship Program?

MIT's Summer High School Internship Program at the Lincoln Laboratory is a great opportunity for rising seniors from the New England area to explore STEM. This program pairs students with experienced mentors from the laboratory staff, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world projects. The program culminates in a presentation of your work at the end of the internship.

The program grants interns access to a wide array of the Laboratory’s technical and professional resources. You will engage in innovative research and development across 12 areas, including Advanced Technology, Cyber Security, and Space Systems. This internship experience is also paid, although they have not specified the stipend amount or any other details! 

What will I research?

The Lincoln Laboratory is renowned for its innovative research and development, which spans 12 distinct areas, including:

• Advanced Technology

• Air Traffic Control

• Air, Missile, and Maritime Defense Technology

• Biotechnology and Human Systems

• Communication Systems

• Cyber Security and Information Sciences

• Engineering

• Homeland Protection

• ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) Systems and Technology

• Space Systems and Technology

• Tactical Systems

• Technology Office

Is it prestigious? 

MIT's Summer High School Internship Program at the Lincoln Laboratory is a prestigious program. They do not formally publish their admissions statistics, but Its association with MIT, an institution renowned globally for its leadership in STEM, makes it a powerful addition to your college applications. The program gives you access to advanced research facilities and the opportunity to work alongside eminent scientists and engineers on real-world projects in areas critical to national security, such as cybersecurity, biotechnology, and aerospace. 

What is the application process and timeline?

The application process for the MIT Summer High School Internship Program involves submitting an online application by the specified deadline, which for the upcoming session is March 22, 2024, at 10:00 PM EST. Candidates are required to complete and submit their applications before this time to be considered. 

Following the application submission, the selection process culminates with admission decisions being communicated via email by mid-May 2024. For those accepted into the program, the internship begins on July 10, 2024, and runs until August 15, 2024, marking the duration of the engagement with a structured timeline that allows students to plan their summer activities accordingly.

Do note that although the applications for the 2024 cohort are closed, the applications for 2025 will open in February 2025!

Should I Apply?

Pros: 

1. You will develop a better understanding of STEM fields: 

 MIT’s Summer High School Internship Program is a hands-on experience that will mirror real-world scientific and engineering challenges. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore areas like biotechnology, cybersecurity, and aerospace engineering, helping you make an informed decision about your college major and career path.

2. You will receive mentorship from leading experts: 

During the internship, you will be paired with mentors from MIT Lincoln Laboratory who are leading professionals in their fields. These mentors provide one-on-one guidance, sharing their expertise and insights into the nuances of working in a high-tech environment. This mentorship extends beyond technical advice, encompassing career guidance and academic counseling.

3. You will gain access to advanced resources: 

As an intern, you gain access to MIT Lincoln Laboratory’s resources, which include advanced computational tools, state-of-the-art laboratories, and high-tech equipment. This exposure not only enhances your technical skills but also gives you a taste of professional research and development activities, typically reserved for industry professionals and postgraduate researchers.

4. You will have numerous opportunities for professional skills development: Throughout the program, you will work on collaborative projects, often requiring you to present your findings and solutions to peers and mentors. These activities are designed to improve both your technical acumen and your ability to work effectively in team settings, preparing you for the collaborative nature of modern STEM careers.

5. You will access a ton of networking opportunities: 

This internship connects you with a network of like-minded peers, experienced professionals, and industry leaders. Regular interactions and presentations allow you to establish connections that could lead to further educational opportunities, internships, or even job offers. 

Cons: 

1. There are geographical limitations: 

The MIT Summer High School Internship Program is specifically designed for students who reside and attend high school in the New England area. If you live outside this region, you are ineligible to participate, which restricts access for many interested students nationally and internationally. 

2. It is an intensive time commitment: 

The program demands a significant time commitment during the summer, running from early July to mid-August. The intensive nature of the program may require you to forego other opportunities or recreational summer activities.

3. There is a competitive application process: 

Given the prestige of MIT and the limited number of internship spots available, the application process is highly competitive. This means you will need to have an impressive academic record, strong letters of recommendation, and standout extracurricular achievements to be considered.

4. It is a high-pressure environment: 

Working in an environment like MIT Lincoln Laboratory can be incredibly demanding. The expectation to deliver results, manage significant projects, and interact with leading experts might be overwhelming, especially if this is your first exposure to such a high-stakes setting. The pressure to perform at a high level can be stressful and might detract from the overall learning experience.

Our Review

This program is ideal for high school students interested in STEM since the MIT Summer High School Internship Program at Lincoln Laboratory will allow you to immerse yourself in advanced scientific and engineering fields. The program pairs you with expert mentors who guide you through complex, real-world projects in cutting-edge research areas like cybersecurity, aerospace engineering, and biotechnology. This program will provide you with valuable hands-on experience and access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that provide a glimpse into professional environments that few other programs can match.

However, it's important to consider the demanding nature of the program. The commitment required throughout the summer can be intense, potentially conflicting with other personal or academic plans. The highly competitive application process also means you need to prepare a strong application to be considered.

Despite these challenges, if you are passionate about STEM and ready to dedicate your summer to intense learning and development, this program could be an incredible step toward your future career, offering education and valuable networking opportunities with peers and professionals in the field.

Looking for an immersive internship experience?

Check out Ladder Internships!

Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual internship program where students work with startups and nonprofits from around the world! The startups range across a variety of industries. As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project that is of genuine need to the startup they are working with, and present their work at the end of their internship. In addition to working closely with their manager from the startup, each intern will also work with a Ladder Coach throughout their internship. Apply now!