Hello, CC! First time posting here.
I’m an incoming freshman and computer science enthusiast. 
Research-wise, I heard that professors usually don’t bother with high school students due to their lack of experience.
Most companies in my area only accept internship applications from high school juniors & up. However, I still want to give at least one of the two a shot at some point in high school because it sounds fun.
For my first two years of high school, what can I do to accumulate more practical experience (and perhaps credibility)? How do I know if I am ready to help out in a professional setting?
I’ve been avid about computer science and software engineering ever since I was a kid, and yet I still feel amateur-ish even after reading books, watching video lectures, and tinkering around with code.
Suggestions would be immensely appreciated!
I have no clue about internships and allowing research studies, those are very hard to come by. I would say if you are really interested however, speak to professors at local colleges, or even interact with professionals in the field. Most of the time they really enjoy giving pointers and sharing their daily life and work experience if they can.
When I was a sophomore I was allowed a job shadow for a professional banker (I was really interested in banking and finances at the time) and it was a great experience. She gave me many pointers not just in the field, but in life, ensuring I stayed focused in school, etc. As I am now in college I still keep in touch with her. I visit her when I can and she has even referenced me for an opening positions at other branches.
I would say start there even if you can’t receive an opportunity for an internship or research. There are plenty of ways to get out there and know more about you field. Call a professor too. I speak with my accounting professors now and they discuss their jobs, what it is like, and important information I should carry with me as I continue my education and career. These are valuable people you could also use as mentors and guides.
I have no clue about internships and allowing research studies, those are very hard to come by. I would say if you are really interested however, speak to professors at local colleges, or even interact with professionals in the field. Most of the time they really enjoy giving pointers and sharing their daily life and work experience if they can.
When I was a sophomore I was allowed a job shadow for a professional banker (I was really interested in banking and finances at the time) and it was a great experience. She gave me many pointers not just in the field, but in life, ensuring I stayed focused in school, etc. As I am now in college I still keep in touch with her. I visit her when I can and she has even referenced me for opening positions at other branches.
I would say start there even if you can’t receive an opportunity for an internship or research. There are plenty of ways to get out there and know more about your field. Call a professor too. I speak with my accounting professors now and they discuss their jobs, what it is like, and important information I should carry with me as I continue my education and career. These are valuable people you could also use as mentors and guides. Be sure you prepare a list of questions when you get there and add questions to it as you go.
@LunaBlue Thanks for the advice! How did you go about approaching the professionals in your field? Did you take initiative by contacting multiple people, or was there a program you signed up for?