Working & Internships
One great way to explore the world is through work and internships. You don't have to wait until you're a certain age or have formal credentials to enter the world of work.
Need some ideas to get started? Check out:
Most people associate a gap year as the year between graduating high school and starting college, but when the world is your "school", there's no reason to put off till later what might be perfect to do now. Check out Middlebury College's collection of gap year resources.
Talk to your mentor about connecting with a local business in an area that you are interested to learn more about
Working Papers
If you between the ages of 14 and 18, you'll need to submit working papers before start working.
New Jersey
As of June 1, 2023, Working Papers for minors have gone digital. Minor needs to obtain a job offer first. Then the minor worker, their guardians, and the employer who hires the minor worker fill out parts of the streamlined online application. Please visit the Young Works page on the NJ government website to access the online portal and detailed instructions.
Internship, Fellowship, Apprenticeship Opportunities
Apprenticeship.gov offers resources and search tools for exploring specific opportunities.
City Year Americorps (for ages 17-24, who have completed high school studies) is a national service program to unite young adults from diverse backgrounds for a demanding year of full-time community service, supporting students in urban school settings.
The Ripple Fellowship is a fully-funded immersive social entrepreneurship program for young adults, ages 18 – 24.