11 Programs for High School Students in San Jose
You’re a high school student in San Jose, and are planning your college education, these programs and internships should be on your radar!
San Jose offers a range of opportunities, whether you're interested in diving into STEM subjects or exploring the arts and humanities. Ranging from immersive learning experiences to skill-based internships, free to paid programs, this blog has something for everyone.
Note: Please keep in mind the following information is for 2023, though dates tend to be similar year on year.
Veritas AI focuses on providing high school students who are passionate about the field of AI a suitable environment to explore their interests. The programs include collaborative learning, project development, and 1-on-1 mentorship. These programs are designed and run by Harvard graduate students and alumni and you can expect a great, fulfilling educational experience. Students are expected to have a basic understanding of Python or are recommended to complete the AI scholars program before pursuing the fellowship.
The AI Fellowship program will have students pursue their own independent AI research project. Students work on their own individual research projects over a period of 12-15 weeks and can opt to combine AI with any other field of interest. In the past, students have worked on research papers in the field of AI & medicine, AI & finance, AI & environmental science, AI & education, and more! You can find examples of previous projects here.
Location: Virtual
Cost:
$1,790 for the 10-week AI Scholars program
$4,900 for the 12-15 week AI Fellowship
$4,700 for both
Need-based financial aid is available. You can apply here.
Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Applications for fall cohort have closed September 3, 2023.
Program dates: Various according to the cohort
Program selectivity: Moderately selective
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit past experience with AI concepts or Python.
Application Requirements: Online application form, answers to a few questions pertaining to the students background & coding experience, math courses, and areas of interest.
Application deadline: December 16, 2022
Eligibility: Students who are juniors or seniors as of fall 2022 are eligible to apply.
Program dates: June 12, 2023 - August 3, 2023
Location: Institutes of Medicine, Stanford University
Stipend: $500 stipend
Since Stanford University is located just an hour away from San Jose, it would be a shame not to include their programs in this list. SIMR offers students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge biomedical research. This highly competitive program provides hands-on laboratory experience and mentorship from renowned faculty, scientists, and researchers. You will explore various fields of medicine and scientific discovery, including genetics, immunology, neuroscience, and bioengineering. Through immersive research projects, you’ll develop critical thinking skills, gain valuable laboratory techniques, and contribute to ongoing scientific investigations.
Stanford University offers numerous other programs for high school students that are worth considering:
We’ve covered all summer opportunities at Stanford in this blog, so you can check that out as well!
Application deadline: April 18, 2023
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors are eligible to apply for this program.
Program dates: June 21 - July 28, 2023
Location: Santa Clara University
Fee: $593 per unit. Each subject specific course (Anthropology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Mathematics) has a few classes to choose from. Each class comprises about 1-5 units each.
At this summer program, you can choose from a range of academic subjects including anthropology, computer science, economics, general engineering and mathematics. It allows you to explore your area of interest and build knowledge and skill in it. The program comes with rigorous coursework taught by experienced faculty members. You will also engage in hands-on research, participate in workshops, and explore college life on campus, which can be a fruitful experience if you’re looking for an on-campus program before joining your dream school.
Application deadline: No deadline, applications are always open. Applications are reviewed on an as-needed basis as departments submit requests. After 6 months, students can re-apply. If you are interested in interning with a specific department, you may reach out to them directly.
Eligibility: High school students, those enrolled in an alternative vocational high school, and students working toward high school equivalency can apply. Please read all the eligibility criteria before applying.
Program dates: Student interns can be used throughout the calendar year depending on the needs of the department.
Location: Different departments have offices across the county.
Stipend: $15-19 per hour
This internship program offers a unique opportunity to gain practical work experience and explore potential career paths. Through it, you will be placed in various county departments and agencies, allowing you to work alongside professionals in areas such as governance, healthcare, public safety, and much more. It will provide you with hands-on learning experiences, exposure to real-world challenges, and the chance to develop valuable skills and professional networks in a workplace setting.
Application deadline: Applications are open all year round.
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to apply.
Program dates: Based on the student’s availability, which you can provide details of when applying.
Location: San Jose Stage Company
Compensation: Hourly rate of minimum wage.
This internship will offer an immersive experience for aspiring theater enthusiasts. As an intern, you'll have the opportunity to work closely with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in various aspects of theatrical production, such as stage management, technical production, marketing, and administration. Through this internship, you'll learn the inner workings of a professional theater company, collaborate with talented artists, and contribute to the vibrant arts community in San Jose. Whether you're interested in acting, directing, design, or arts management, this internship provides a supportive and engaging environment to refine your skills and explore your passion for the performing arts.
Application deadline: This information is not available at the moment.
Eligibility: Students from Yerba Buena and W.C. Overfelt high schools, who are entering grades 9-12 are eligible to apply.
Program dates: Six week program dates are not disclosed.
Location: Evergreen Valley College
Fee: Free
Focused on academic and personal development, this program aims to prepare students for success in higher education. As a participant, you will be expected to engage in a variety of activities, including college readiness workshops, academic tutoring, cultural enrichment, and college campus visits. Through rigorous coursework, mentorship, and hands-on experiences, you will get the chance to enhance your skills in subjects such as math, science, English, and foreign languages. The program fosters a supportive learning environment and empowers students to pursue their educational goals, all before joining college!
You could also consider the TriO Talent Search at Evergreen Valley College.
Application deadline: Applications open in early Spring, and stay open till seats are full.
Eligibility: Students aged 16-18 can apply.
Program dates: 8-week program starting June 19, 2023.
Location: CliftonLarsonAllen, San Jose
Stipend: Paid, but no information available on the exact compensation.
In its debut run this year, this is an exciting opportunity to gain real-world experience in accounting, tax, wealth management, digital, and consulting services. You'll work alongside experienced professionals and be involved in real-world projects, gaining valuable insights into the industry and developing essential skills. The program provides a structured learning environment where you'll receive mentorship and guidance to enhance your understanding of accounting principles, financial analysis, and business operations. This internship is a great way to gain a competitive edge in the business world while working with a leading accounting firm.
Application deadline: December 23, 2022
Eligibility: Students aged 16-19 by June 1, 2023 can apply.
Program dates: June 19, 2023 - August 4, 2023
Location: Kaiser Permanente, San Jose
Stipend: $15-17 per hour
For those interested in the healthcare industry, this internship grants practical experience and insight into it. Through this program, you will have the chance to work alongside healthcare professionals and learn about various medical disciplines, such as nursing, pharmacy, laboratory sciences, and more. You will be engaged with hands-on activities, shadowing experiences, and educational workshops that enhance your understanding of healthcare practices. The program emphasizes mentorship, teamwork, and personal development, and serves as good encouragement for you to explore your career interest in the medical field. For a list of medical internships, you can check this blog out.
Application deadline: Applications open in February, and are closed when seats are full. Courses are filled on a first-come first-serve basis.
Eligibility: Some subjects are open to all high school students, including freshmen, while some are for students in grades 10-12.
Program dates: Different subject courses are conducted on different dates through June and July.
Location: The Harker School, San Jose
Fee: Range from $68 to $2085 based on the course chosen.
This program offers both for-credit and enrichment courses. With a diverse range of courses, it gives you the opportunity to pursue your interests and expand knowledge in various subjects – from geometry and economics to programming and literature. This program fosters a collaborative and engaging learning environment, making room for you to interact with experienced faculty and peers who share your passion for learning. With its intensive curriculum, hands-on activities, and personalized instruction, it helps you picture and plan your academic future.
Application deadline: Registrations open in early spring, and stay open till seats are full.
Eligibility: Students in grades 8-12 can apply for this program.
Program dates: June 26 - 30, 2023
Location: San Jose State University
Fee: $475
This can be an inspiring program for young writers looking to explore and develop their writing skills. It offers a supportive community for you to enhance your creative writing abilities through engaging workshops, interactive activities, and insightful feedback from experienced writers. This year, the program covers novel and script writing. It allows you to experiment with different forms and discover your unique voice. The program encourages peer interaction, and provides a platform for you to share your work and receive constructive critique.
Note: The information below is for the 2022-23 academic year. This program is yet to announce details for the 2023-24 academic year.
Application deadline: September 10, 2022
Eligibility: Students in grades 8-12 can apply.
Program dates: Every Tuesday | October - May | 7PM - 9PM
Location: Santa Clara University
Fee: $580
San Jose Math Circle is an engaging program designed to foster a deeper appreciation for mathematics and cultivate problem-solving skills. Led by experienced mathematicians and educators, such as Tom Davis and Raghu Subramanian, you will explore advanced mathematical concepts, engage in challenging problem-solving sessions, and participate in mathematical competitions such as Bay Area Mathematical Olympiad. During the program, you will cover topics including fractions and decimals, probability, game theory and geometry. The program encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity, allowing you to develop a strong foundation in mathematics with weekly sessions throughout the year.
Bonus - Junior Achievement of Northern California, a youth organization, also offers several programs for high school students that you can take a look at.
JA Be Entrepreneurial: Creative Problem Solving, Rapid Business Planning and Think Like An Entrepreneur
One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you are passionate about research, you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students I founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 2100 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
Image Source: SIMR logo