Teen Programs

Dig into science & unearth your curiosity.

Science for Success Teen Internships

The Science for Success Teen Internship invites students from Cleveland-area high schools to engage in a variety of project- and mission-based opportunities at the Museum and in the community. Working primarily with the Museum's Education and Community Engagement Departments, our interns are an integral part of planning and executing programs that support the Museum's mission and reach underserved and underrepresented audiences.

Museum professionals serve as role models and mentors as they guide interns through youth-development experiences and the building of hands-on science skills. The internship prepares teens to pursue careers in STEM, museums, and other fields while providing them with practical work experience, interpersonal skills, high school and career mentorship, and the resources to help lead their families and communities toward a sustainable future. Science for Success is a year-round opportunity, and applications will open again in fall 2026.

Science for Success is sponsored by Isobel Rutherford, M.D.

Hours & Compensation

Interns generally work from 10am to 4pm on two weekends a month during the school year and two to three days per week during the summer, up to 28 hours per week. Pay is $11/hour.

Eligibility

Applicants must be rising high school freshmen at the time of application. Applicants must be able to work at least two weekend shifts per month and attend monthly Zoom meetings. Priority is given to East Cleveland and Cleveland students.

How to Apply

As part of the application, students must submit their school transcript, brief statements addressing their interest in the opportunity and describing a time when they demonstrated curiosity, and contact information for a reference. Only complete applications will be considered. 

Please check back for updates in fall 2026.

Please contact Justin Forneris, Manager of Youth Initiatives, at jforneris@cmnh.org with questions or to request more information about the Science for Success internship program.

 
 

Upcoming Opportunities for Teens

Museum Career Days 2026

Is your teen curious about career options at a natural history museum? These one-day experiences offer a unique opportunity for high school students to meet staff from various departments of the Museum and learn what it takes to succeed in science careers.

Summer Camps 2026

Make Your Own Museum (MYOM) 2 is your teen's opportunity to unearth their passion for science, nature, and creativity. MYOM 2 is a perfect opportunity for older campers who do not need as much support and practice to gain hands-on skills; for MYOM 1 alums who are ready to dive deeper into their model exhibits; and for extra-passionate campers who would like to repeat this experience through their middle-school years. Campers will have the chance to return to the Museum in the fall to present their creations to our guests.

Teen Night 2026

We’re inviting teens to take over the Museum! Science fans will enjoy an evening of food, fun, and friends while checking out our exhibits. This year’s Teen Night is expected to take place in late August/early September; return here to find more information in the summer of 2026.

High School Programs

The Museum offers many programs geared toward teen learners (8th–12th graders). Browse our on-site offerings and our virtual programming.