15 Literature Internships for High School Students
Internships are among the most accessible and insightful ways for high school students to explore career interests early on. They help you apply your classroom knowledge to practical scenarios and offer a gateway into the professional world in various fields, without a significant financial investment. They can also be valuable opportunities for you to develop your skills and gain insights into the industry secrets by interacting with established professionals and mentors.
Many top colleges, cultural institutions, non-profits, and publishing organizations offer literature internships for high school students, giving you the chance to develop a portfolio, build professional connections, and enhance your practical abilities and soft skills before you graduate.
Literature internships for high school students can be a stepping stone into academic, publishing, editing, and other related industries, as they allow you to explore various roles and lay a foundation for your future career to thrive in. Whether you are drawn to reading and analyzing literary works, writing original pieces, editing manuscripts, or exploring the intersection of media, literature, academia, and publishing, literature internships for high school students can offer impactful experiences, helping you understand the range of career paths available lin literary fields, including archival research, communications, education, editing, and various forms of creative writing.
Here are 15 exciting literature internships for high school students, though some may not have a traditional internship structure. Each opportunity offers valuable exposure to the literary world through hands-on learning, mentorship training, and other unique opportunities, to help you get started:
1. Library of Congress High School Summer Internship
Location: Virtual/hybrid/on-site at the Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.
Cost: None
Program Dates: June 23 – July 17
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility:16 or older at the time of the internship; U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or those with a valid visa
As a Library of Congress literature intern, you’ll serve as a youth advisor, helping shape future programs and materials focused on youth and family engagement. You’ll have the flexibility to work virtually, in person, or in a hybrid format while developing educational content for the Library’s experiential learning exhibition and exploring its vast collections. Your role will involve researching and recommending materials suitable for children and families, advising on teen programming, and offering insights to enhance the visitor experience for younger audiences. You’ll also join a teen advisory panel to provide feedback on public content and program models. Through this experience, you’ll build valuable skills in research, communication, and collaboration, while gaining exposure to careers in libraries, museums, and the humanities—culminating in written recommendations, curated lists, and detailed content reviews for Library staff.
2. L.A. Times High School Insider Internship
Location: El Segundo office, CA
Cost/Stipend: None; Stipend $16.90/hour
Program Dates: June 16 - August 1
Application Deadline: February 26
Eligibility: residing in Los Angeles County and Orange County, California, who can commit to work in the El Segundo office, are eligible to apply
LAW Times’ paid internship is a standout opportunity for you if you're a high school student in Southern California interested in blending writing, multimedia storytelling, and journalism. Funded by the Jack and Denny Smith Memorial Fund for Literacy, this immersive program introduces you to the dynamic world of media and publishing. You’ll gain real-world experience as a journalist by covering breaking news, crafting feature stories, and producing videos and podcasts. You'll work in a fast-paced professional news environment, sharpen your writing and communication skills, and receive expert guidance through training and mentorship sessions with L.A. Times’ award-winning faculty. Your work might even be published on latimes.com/hsinsider!
3. Hachette Book Group Internships
Location: Hybrid; In-person at the New York City Office, NY
Cost: None. $16.50/hour stipend
Program Dates: June 2 - August 7 / 6 months starting August 5 (tentatively), depending on the internship
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Open to all
If you’re passionate about literature and dream of a career in publishing, Hachette Book Group’s internship is an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience in editorial and marketing departments at one of the top U.S. publishers. You'll take on real editorial tasks, contribute to creative projects like reviewing manuscripts and helping with illustrated books, and attend meetings that give you an inside look at the publishing process. The program also includes educational sessions with professionals from across the company, offering you career development, networking opportunities, and even a potential path to full-time employment.
4. The Harvard Crimson Summer Journalism Academy
Location: Virtual or in-person in Cambridge, MA
Cost: In-person: $950 | Virtual: $750. Financial aid available
Program Dates: July 7-16
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students
Hosted by The Harvard Crimson, this prestigious program gives you a deep dive into the world of journalism. You’ll build essential skills in storytelling, reporting, and editorial practices through hands-on workshops, writing seminars, and one-on-one mentorship sessions. Accessible both virtually and in person, it’s open to students nationwide. You’ll collaborate with Harvard undergraduates across various content boards—from news and editorial to multimedia and arts—helping you gain a comprehensive experience in journalism while building a strong writing portfolio. If you're exploring literature or journalism internships for high school students, this program gives you a powerful opportunity to strengthen your research, writing, and narrative-building abilities. You’ll receive personalized feedback from experienced mentors and may even publish your work through The Harvard Crimson. By immersing yourself in real newsroom operations, you'll also gain insights into media ethics, content strategy, and revenue generation. By the end of the program, you’ll have created a portfolio of original work that can open doors to future opportunities in publishing and media.
5. Reynolds Young Writers Workshop
Location: Denison University, Granville, OH
Cost: $1,500 (financial aid available)
Program Dates: June 14 - 21
Application Deadline: March 3
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors
Founded in 1994, this highly selective literature internship accepts only 48 high school students for an immersive 8-day residential experience on Denison University’s peaceful campus. You’ll explore fiction, poetry, and nonfiction through small-group morning sessions with about 12 peers, where you’ll learn the fundamentals of writing across genres. In the afternoons, you’ll dive into craft workshops covering topics like poetic forms and narrative structures, and in the evenings, you’ll attend faculty-led readings that deepen your appreciation for literature. With a low student-faculty ratio and dedicated instructors—including professional writers and Denison’s English faculty—you’ll receive one-on-one mentorship, participate in individual conferences, and gain personalized feedback to help you build a strong writing portfolio in a space that offers both creative retreat and cultural inspiration.
6. Alpha Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Workshop for Young Writers
Location: University of Pittsburgh’s Greensburg Campus, Pittsburgh, PA
Cost: $1,800 - includes tuition, meals, and on-campus housing. Financial aid and scholarships are available
Program Dates: July 16 – July 27
Application Deadline: March 21
Eligibility: 14 - 19 year old students
This highly selective 12-day writing workshop accepts only 20 high school students, making it a standout opportunity if you’re seeking a literature-focused internship. You’ll gain hands-on experience in brainstorming ideas across genres, developing drafts, critiquing your own and others’ work, and revising through guided feedback—all while learning the fundamentals of the editing process. The program also supports you through the professional submission process, giving you a strong head start in the world of writing. You’ll interact with established authors, sharpen your craft, and build a solid foundation for future literary pursuits. Designed to be inclusive, the program offers financial, technological, and accessibility accommodations to support students from diverse backgrounds and ensure everyone has a meaningful and enriching experience.
Location: Virtual or residential at the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Cost: $2,500 (housing, instruction, extracurriculars, and materials included) + $10 reading fee. Need-based financial assistance is offered
Program Dates: Residential Session 1: June 15 - 28; Session 2: July 13 - 26 | June 15 - July 27
Application Deadline: Residential program: February 2 | Deadlines vary for virtual courses
Eligibility: Students currently in grades 10 - 12 (residential); 9th graders are eligible for the virtual program
Unlike traditional literature internships for high school students, this program offers both virtual and in-person options, empowering you to explore diverse approaches to writing while developing your own voice and learning to give thoughtful critique. In the two-week residential program, you’ll choose a core course—such as poetry, creative writing, playwriting, or fiction—and dive deep into that genre through peer writing exercises, revision workshops, and professional feedback, all led by MFA graduates and seasoned instructors. You'll also take part in craft workshops, author readings, and discussions on topics like literary translation and revision, along with fun social events like talent shows and open mics. If you prefer more flexibility, the asynchronous online course allows you to work at your own pace (about 3–4 hours a week) as long as you meet weekly deadlines. You'll choose from five specialized courses—nonfiction, poetry, creative writing, speculative fiction, or fiction—and complete readings, assignments, discussions, and peer critiques. At the end of either format, you’ll receive a Letter of Completion and a PDF of your final grade, making this a well-rounded and accessible opportunity to refine your craft.
8. Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference
Location: University of the South, Sewanee, TN
Cost: $2600 (includes tuition, room and board); $175 refundable deposit. Financial aid is offered based on need
Program Dates: June 29 - July 12
Application Deadline: March 3
Eligibility: High school students
Offering a standout alternative to traditional literature internships for high school students, this immersive creative writing program at the scenic University of the South in Tennessee is perfect if you're eager to grow as a writer. You’ll participate in small, rigorous workshops each morning—limited to just 12 students per session—covering fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, all led by award-winning faculty recognized by The New York Times and The New Yorker. Beyond workshops, you'll attend one-on-one faculty conferences, afternoon craft talks on everything from sonnets to zines, and tours of the historic Sewanee Review. Faculty and guest readings will deepen your engagement with literature, while cohort-wide social events—like hiking, swimming, and karaoke—offer a fun way to build community with about 85 fellow students. By the end of this enriching experience, you’ll walk away with a polished writing portfolio and new connections to accomplished literary voices.
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Program Dates: Half-time internships: 2 - 8 weeks in increments of 2 weeks (20 hours/week), in summer | Quarter-time internships: 1 - 9 months in increments of 1 month (8 hours/week), all year round
Application Deadline: Rolling applications
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with at least one honors science/English class, and a GPA over 3.25
If you're passionate about writing and want to apply your literary skills to real-world issues, EnergyMag’s virtual internship is a standout opportunity that blends storytelling with sustainability. While it’s not a traditional literature internship, this program allows you to explore journalism and research in the context of clean energy, helping you craft compelling narratives that inform and inspire readers about environmentally friendly alternatives. You’ll work closely with editors and professionals in a mission-driven setting, gaining firsthand experience in investigative reporting, advocacy writing, and technical communication. Whether your interests lie in journalism, environmental science, or public policy, this internship will sharpen your critical thinking, analytical writing, and research skills—all while giving your college applications a boost. Plus, since it’s also open to college students, you’ll have the chance to connect with older peers who can mentor you and offer guidance on academic and professional paths.
10. Camp Cronkite
Location: Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Phoenix, AZ
Cost: Starts at $799. Need-based scholarships available
Program Dates: Session 1: June 8 - 13 | Session 2: June 15 - 20
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Current high school students of all grades
Camp Cronkite is an immersive summer experience that offers a standout alternative to traditional literature internships for high school students interested in journalism, storytelling, and digital communication. Hosted by Arizona State University’s prestigious Walter Cronkite School of Journalism, you’ll get hands-on training in writing, reporting, podcasting, video production, and personal branding, all while living on a college campus. Whether you're just starting to explore your interests or looking to sharpen your portfolio, this program provides a supportive space to grow. You’ll learn from Cronkite faculty and student mentors through core workshops in writing, interviewing, and visual storytelling, with electives tailored to your passions. You can choose from two distinct sessions: Session 1 focuses on Sports Media, featuring play-by-play broadcasting and live event coverage, while Session 2 explores broader Media themes like podcasting, social media, and newsroom visits. No matter which session you join, Camp Cronkite will help you channel your love for language into dynamic journalistic and digital formats.
11. Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)
Location: Cornell University and the University of Maryland
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 22 - July 26
Application Deadline: December 3
Eligibility: All current high school sophomores and juniors, at least 15 years old
The Telluride Association Summer Seminars (TASS) are prestigious and fully funded summer programs that offer you the chance to engage in deep academic inquiry and communal living—perfect if you're passionate about literature, history, politics, or social justice. You'll explore how power, privilege, and identity shape society—themes central to both classic and contemporary literature—making TASS one of the most intellectually enriching literature internships for high school students. Each day, you’ll participate in rigorous 3-hour college-level seminars taught by experienced faculty in one of two tracks: TASS-CBS (Critical Black Studies) or TASS-AOS (Anti-Oppressive Studies). These seminars emphasize critical reading, collaborative discussion, and intensive writing as you engage with diverse texts, art, film, and literature. Beyond the classroom, you’ll help shape your community through democratic decision-making, peer-organized activities, and a transformative justice framework that fosters open dialogue and accountability. With support from resident advisors and factotums (teaching assistants), you’ll grow not only as a scholar but also as a thoughtful, engaged community member.
12. Asian American Journalists Association’s JCamp
Location: Seattle, WA
Cost: None
Program Dates: July 26 - August 1
Application Deadline: January 31
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores and juniors
JCamp is a fully funded, 6-day multicultural journalism program that empowers you to explore the world of media in a dynamic and inclusive setting. If you’re seeking literature internships for high school students that blend writing, journalism, and leadership, JCamp offers a transformative opportunity to sharpen your storytelling skills while collaborating with a diverse group of peers and mentors. You’ll receive hands-on training from veteran journalists and top media professionals, participate in interactive workshops, and produce real multimedia news packages for the program website. From writing and reporting to video production and photography, you’ll explore multiple media platforms while building a polished portfolio and gaining valuable insight into the media industry.
13. Princeton Summer Journalism Program
Location: Hybrid structure; In-person at Princeton University, Princeton, NJ
Cost: None
Program Dates: July 24 - August 3
Application Deadline: Typically in February
Eligibility: High school juniors living in the U.S. with a minimum GPA of 3.5, and an interest in journalism, from a low-income background
The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP) is one of the most prestigious and comprehensive literature internships for high school students—especially if you're a junior passionate about journalism, writing, and media studies. The program begins in early June with virtual workshops and continues with a fully funded, 10-day residential experience on Princeton University’s campus. You’ll participate in weekly online lectures led by professional journalists and Princeton faculty, engage in current events discussions, and start drafting original articles. Once on campus, you’ll stay in Princeton dorms, complete real reporting assignments, attend newsroom tours at places like The New York Times and Bloomberg, and receive direct mentorship from PSJP alumni and industry professionals. Your work—including articles for The Princeton Summer Journal, digital content, and group blogs—may even be published. Beyond journalism, the program supports your college journey through one-on-one advising, giving you early preparation for competitive college applications.
14. CSPA Summer Journalism Workshop
Location: Virtual and Columbia University, New York City, NY
Cost: Resident: $2,199; Commuter: $1,399 | Virtual: $999 per session
Program Dates: In-person: June 22-27 | Virtual: July 7-11; July 14-18; July 21-25
Application Deadline: May 9
Eligibility: High school students
The CSPA Summer Journalism Workshop offers a unique and immersive experience for you if you're a high school student interested in literature, storytelling, and journalism. Whether you attend in person or virtually, you'll dive deep into writing, reporting, digital media, editorial leadership, and design. You can strengthen your skills in feature article writing through the News Reporting and Writing session, or explore editorial leadership by collaborating on print, online, or hybrid publication projects. In the Design Concepts track, you’ll gain hands-on experience with visual storytelling tools like type, design hierarchy, and infographics, while the Digital Media Concepts group introduces you to powerful content creation using photography and video. This program gives you a broad platform to explore multiple storytelling styles and deepen your understanding of literature through various creative forms.
15. NYC Summer Academy at The School of The New York Times
Location: New York City, NY
Cost: Day students: $5,935; Residential students: $7,265. $500 discount for enrolling in multiple terms
Program Dates:Term 1:June 8 - 20; Term 2: June 22-July 4; Term 3: July 6-18; Term 4: July 20-August 1.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions till April 30
Eligibility: Open to rising high school students (grades 10-12) and graduating seniors. Students must be 15-18 years old by the first day of the program
The NYC Summer Academy at The School of The New York Times is an immersive pre-college experience and one of the most prestigious literature internships for high school students interested in writing, media, and cultural studies. Held in New York City, this two-week program lets you explore real-world storytelling through courses rooted in the journalistic excellence of The New York Times. You can choose from a wide range of subjects—including writing, journalism, opinion, law, politics, culture, and the arts—and learn daily from Times journalists, media professionals, and university-level instructors. The courses blend theoretical and practical learning with interactive lectures, skills workshops, reporting assignments, and personalized guidance. The program also features site visits to newsrooms, cultural institutions, and diverse NYC neighborhoods to deepen your experience with real-world observation and reporting. Additionally, you’ll engage in community-building activities like peer editorial reviews, guest speaker panels, and collaborative storytelling projects.
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!