High School Intern Program

The South Carolina Aquarium High School Intern Program is an opportunity to become a paid intern for 11th-grade students in the Charleston area. Each spring, students attend training classes to learn about animals, ocean science, career development and team-building skills. Ten students are then chosen to continue on as paid summer interns, working with marine educators and biologists throughout the summer. Students may participate in the High School Intern Program only once.

The High School Intern Program is made possible by donations from generous partners including: Boeing South Carolina and SC Ports Authority.

REQUIREMENTS

• Be a current 11th grade-student
• Have a strong interest in animals and the environment

Two references from teachers must be submitted; one must be from a science teacher. Two teachers must complete a reference form. Reference forms must be submitted in order to be considered for an internship. All applications are due by November 5, 2021.

IMPORTANT DATES

Application Deadline: November 5, 2021
Interviews: Late December 2021
Acceptance Mailed: Early January 2022
Parent Orientation: January 2022
Training Classes: January–April 2022
Summer Internship Orientation: June 2022
Summer Internship: June–August 2022 (8 weeks)
Family Night: July 2022

ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS MUST BE COMPLETED AND SENT TO:

South Carolina Aquarium,
Attn: High School Intern Program,
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401

After receiving your application and teacher references, an Aquarium team member will contact you to set up an interview. Applicants who are accepted will participate in training classes at the Aquarium from January to April. Classes will meet once a month on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants will be evaluated on interest, commitment and progress shown during the training classes. In May, participants will be interviewed again by Aquarium team members. Based on these evaluations, 10 participants will be chosen for paid internships with our Education staff. Internships will be 20 hours per week, $9 per hour and will last for eight weeks during the months of June to August.