For many high school students, the idea of working at a startup sounds like something reserved for college grads or tech experts in Silicon Valley. But a video that’s been circulating online shows that getting real startup experience can actually begin as early as high school — and without needing advanced coding skills or years of experience.
The video breaks down how students can get involved in startups by focusing on learning, curiosity, and practical skills, rather than age or résumés. Instead of waiting until college, students are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities that already exist online and in their own communities.
What Is Startup Experience — and Why Does It Matter?
Startup experience isn’t just about launching a company. It’s about learning how businesses are built from the ground up. That includes understanding how ideas turn into products, how teams work together under pressure, and how problems are solved when there’s no step-by-step rulebook.
According to the video, startups value people who can:
-
Learn quickly
-
Communicate clearly
-
Take initiative
-
Adapt when things don’t go as planned
These are the same skills colleges and employers look for, which makes startup experience especially valuable for high school students preparing for the future.
Ways High School Students Can Get Involved
One of the biggest takeaways from the video is that students don’t need to be programmers to contribute. Startups need help in many areas, including:
-
Social media and content creation
-
Marketing and branding
-
Research and idea testing
-
Community outreach
-
Design and creativity
The video emphasizes that students should focus on what they’re already good at and look for startups that need those skills. Many early-stage companies are open to motivated students who are willing to learn and help.
Learning by Doing, Not Just Watching
Rather than just reading about startups, the video encourages students to get hands-on experience. That might mean:
-
Joining online startup programs or communities
-
Participating in virtual internships
-
Helping a small business or local organization grow
-
Building a simple project to solve a real problem
These experiences help students understand how real-world work differs from classroom assignments and teaches responsibility, time management, and teamwork.
Why This Matters for High Schoolers
For students thinking about college, careers, or entrepreneurship, startup experience can be a major advantage. It shows initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to step outside of comfort zones. The video highlights that starting early allows students to explore interests, build confidence, and even discover career paths they didn’t know existed.
Instead of waiting for opportunities to come later, the message is clear: students can start now.
A New Mindset for the Future
The video ultimately promotes a mindset shift — from waiting for permission to taking action. It reminds students that age doesn’t define potential, and that learning outside the classroom can be just as important as grades and test scores.
For Yonkers Middle High School students and others like them, the takeaway is simple: if you’re curious, motivated, and willing to learn, there are real opportunities out there — even before graduation.
