If you want to explore new opportunities in science or nature, or contribute to your community, there is a wide variety of free, teen-exclusive programs for high school students. Navigating them may be difficult due to the limited information given, you have to really go out of your way to find these programs. The sooner you act, the better.
Careers in Science (CiS) at the California Academy of Science
If you are interested in science and want to earn money while pursuing a career you enjoy, Careers in Science is a great opportunity. You will learn about financial literacy, careers from practicing STEM professionals, the college application process, attend college tours, present at STEM conferences and festivals, think critically, and so much more.
- Requirements: 2.5 GPA, at least a C in science and math, work permit, 9th or 10th grade only, commit to attending.
- Paid/Unpaid: Paid, above minimum wage
- Location: California Academy of Science
- Deadline to apply: February 2027
- Schedule: After-school and Weekends, multi-year, year-round
Nature Trail Program at the SF Zoo & Gardens
If you have a sincere interest in nature, animals, and conservation, and enjoy working with people, the Nature Trail Program is a great program that you should take advantage of. Not only can you be around animals and be outdoors, but you also gain experience with talking to people and working.
- Requirements: Ages 12-14, participate in an online interview, and purchase a $40 uniform.
- Paid/Unpaid: Unpaid
- Location: San Francisco Zoo & Gardens
- Deadline to apply: May 31st
- Schedule: Seven Days per Month
BEETs program with CommunityGrows
The BEETs program is definitely something you should keep an eye out for. It’s the kind of risk that’s healthy, like playing a new sport. It teaches about job readiness, cooking, leadership, environmental justice, herbalism, and gardening.
- Requirements: Ages 14-25, residents of SF,
- Paid/Unpaid: Paid
- Location: In the Western Addition
- Deadline to apply: January
- Schedule: Once a week, Feb-May (Wednesday 14-18, Thursday 118-25)
Free Summer Pass at Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness is known as a “judgment-free zone” gym, and it can help with the intimidation that comes from starting something new, especially when it’s in a public environment. A free membership at a gym has a lot of benefits, especially during the summer, as it can keep you active and healthy.
- Requirements: Ages 14-19, sign up with a parent/guardian
- Paid/Unpaid: Unpaid, but a free gym membership that is usually behind a paywall
- Location: Any participating Planet Fitness
- Deadline to apply: Only on May 29th or July 5th, from 4-8 PM at a participating location.
- Schedule: June 1st – August 3rd
San Francisco Public Library (SFPL)
The SFPL is full of programs and volunteering opportunities for all kinds of students, with a focus on helping younger students and dedicating time to help them. The requirements, schedule, and whether the programs pay or not, depend solely on whichever one you choose, so I strongly recommend visiting their website and seeing for yourself if you’d like to participate in any of their opportunities.
- Requirements: Dependent on which program is chosen
- Paid/Unpaid: Mostly unpaid, however, some are
- Location: Any participating library (your choice)
- Deadline to apply: Dependent on which program is chosen
- Schedule: Dependent on which program is chosen
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you want to learn more, the future center and counseling office are great places to ask for new, updated opportunities. What’s most important is to participate and get experience in all kinds of areas to see what sticks out to you.
Getting out of your comfort zone, while getting experience, or in some cases, money, is incredibly valuable, especially in high school. If any of the mentioned opportunities stuck out to you, I encourage you to do them. Finding communities with people just as passionate as you on these topics is an indescribable feeling that provides the support and environment needed for you to thrive.
