Teens at Mingei (TAM) is a paid, eight-month internship program that offers 10th and 11th grade high school students an in-depth look at diverse careers in the arts, providing them with the tools and connections to pursue these paths. This program offers a supportive space for teens to grow and build lasting connections within San Diego's art community.
Applications for the 2026-2027 Teens at Mingei program will open March 2 and close March 27 2026. If your application moves forward, there will be a mandatory in-person interview and a group interview.
An Introduction to the Art World
Through this program, high school students throughout San Diego county will meet artists and art professionals from across the city, gain first-hand experience of the behind-the-scenes operations of an art museum, and practice multimedia skills as a group.
For full participation, each student will receive a $750 stipend.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this internship, you must:
- Be between the ages of 16-17 years old
- Entering 10th or 11th grade in Fall 2026
- Attend a San Diego County high school
Timeline - 2026/2027 School Year
Teens at Mingei operates within each school year with applications opening the previous spring. Selected applicants are expected to attend fifteen sessions on Wednesday evenings throughout the year, from October to May.
- March: Applications open (3/2/26)
- March: Applications close (3/27/26)
- April: Interview process (4/20/26-4/24/26)
- August: Accepted applicants are notified
- Session Schedule | Twice Monthly, Wednesday evenings from 4:30-6:30pm
2025-2026 Teens at Mingei
Applications for the 2026-2027 Teens at Mingei program will open March 2 and close March 27 2026.
Questions? Contact our Studio Program Specialist, India Thompson