Polygence Work Lab

Photo of Akash, Polygence Work Lab alumni student

“This is different than anything I’ve done in the past. We’re actually doing real-life work. This isn’t a hypothetical case study, we’re really putting this work out there and it’s making real impact.”
- Akash, rising senior

49% of Gen Z internship seekers are submitting more than 50 applications during their search.

For high school students who are already balancing grades, college applications and other extracurriculars, this can present a roadblock to gaining real-world experience in their chosen field.

That's why we created Work Lab, a new way for high school students to work directly with innovative startups.

The Experience That Gets You Ready for College—And the Real World.

Forget boring internships with shadowing and busywork. At Polygence, you’ll dive into a real project with a startup founder, doing the kind of creative, hands-on work pros actually do. You’ll problem-solve, make decisions, and see your impact—while building skills that prep you for college and whatever comes next.

Join a project based on the real needs of a real business.

Build professionalism & skills while contributing to a company’s growth.

Complete project and showcase your work icon

Complete your project and showcase the results in your portfolio.

Upcoming Fall 2025 Projects

Polygence Work Lab students work with host companies from industries ranging from Technology and Healthcare to Sustainability & Non-Profit. Here are some exciting projects coming up for Fall ‘25.

Join a project where you’ll review and clean 3D models of real-world industrial equipment using tools like MeshLab or Blender. You’ll also learn how autonomous systems capture these models and how internal tools support the process. Perfect for students interested in computer vision, automation, and building real skills with professional software.

Program Details

Work Lab is an exciting project-based learning experience where motivated high school students team up with innovative startup founders to dive into real-world challenges and build something meaningful. Here’s how it works:

Program Duration & Important Dates

Polygence offers 6 Work Lab cohorts throughout the year, each with its own application deadline. Each cohort lasts for 5 weeks.

Project Format

Location: Remote (occasional hybrid opportunities may arise)
Time Commitment: ~8 hours/week for 5 weeks (about 40 hours total)
Mentorship Structure:
- Starts with a project kickoff meeting
- Weekly check-ins with your host company contact
- Host provides guidance and feedback, but you’ll lead the work
- Final project presentation with direct feedback in Week 5

What’s Included?

Workplace etiquette workshop to prepare you for professional settings
Five weekly meetings with your host manager
Asynchronous support from your host (via email, Slack, Teams, etc.)
Weekly feedback from your host manager
Final feedback on your completed project
Opportunity to request a letter of reference based on your performance (not guaranteed)
BONUS: Work Lab students get invited into the Polygence Thinking Lab, monthly workshops focused on practicing the Art of Thinking

Apply Now

Learning Outcomes

Build real-world problem-solving and independent work skills
Strengthen professional communication and collaboration
Gain exposure to startup environments and industry tools
Develop time management, goal-setting, and workplace readiness
Create a portfolio-worthy project and explore career interests

Tuition & Affordability

This is a tuition-based program that offers a project-based learning experience, with industry mentors compensated for their time, guidance, and mentorship. Discounts may be available. Apply to learn more.

Eligibility Requirements

Must be 15 years or older
Must be mature, responsible, and self-motivated
Must be able to work independently and communicate professionally
Some projects require advanced skills like coding
This is a selective program for students ready to take initiative and follow through
If a parent feels unsure about their student’s maturity, or believes they’ll need to help their student through the project, the student is not a fit for the program
No refunds will be issued for failure to complete the program due to immaturity, lack of follow-through, or unmet host manager expectations

Apply Now