Gaining work experience while still in school can help you see how your studies connect to your future, and can give you valuable skills for college or careers.

Information

Department of Labor website with information on high-growth, high-wage careers.  You can use this information to target your work experience in businesses and industries you know are in demand.

Learn and Earn: Tips for Teens (DO-IT, University of Washington, 2006)
Defines work-based learning, sets out reasons why teens should participate in work-based learning, lists potential partners for success (e.g., school, family, community), describes some work-based learning programs and includes links to additional resources.

YouthRules (Department of Labor)
Outlines how many hours teens can work, in what jobs they may work, and how they can help prevent workplace injuries.

Youth at Work
Website on the rights and responsibilities of teen workers, including how teens can detect, prevent and take action against employment discrimination.

Getting Your First Job
Article on how teens can make a good impression and increase their chances of getting a first job.

Opportunities

StudentJobs.gov
Online listing of federal government jobs for students across the U.S. (no registration required). Also features an online resume builder. Has information on the employment process, federal hiring, and assessing career interests.

NASA Sharp

Summer research apprenticeship program for high school students interested in science & technology.  The program focuses on students traditionally under-represented in these fields.   You can apply for this intensive study and work opportunity via the NASA Sharp website.

Teens4Hire
Website that matches teens who want to work to job opportunities nationwide, and provides information on getting and keeping a good job (requires registration, free).

SummerJobs.com
Online listing of "summer jobs and seasonal staff positions with camps, resorts, national parks, hotels, environmental organizations and more." Also features articles and advice on looking for jobs (requires registration, free).

CoolWorks
Online listing of seasonal and summer jobs "in some of the greatest places on Earth" (no registration required).

Institute for Experiential Learning (IEL)
Organization that sponsors internships in Washington, DC for highly motivated high school students.

Zoo Teen
The Indianapolis Zoo offers students age 14-18 the opportunity to work at the zoo and aquarium in environmental education, butterfly interpretation, guest services and animal care.

Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG)
JAG helps keep young people in school through graduation and provides work-based learning experiences that will lead to a rewarding career or enrollment in college.