New year, new skills: Preparing teenagers for their first creative internship

The start of a new year is often a moment for reflection and fresh goals. For high school students—and their parents—it’s also a time to ask important questions: What comes next? How can this year be used to build real skills? And how do we prepare for the first internship in an increasingly competitive world?

At nao academy, we believe New Year’s resolutions shouldn’t just be about grades or vague ambitions. They should be about learning practical, future-ready skills that help students move confidently toward their first internship or apprenticeship—especially in creative and digital roles.

Why learning new skills matters more than ever

In Switzerland, many teenagers find themselves at a crossroads. They may not have entered Gymnasium, or they are still searching for an apprenticeship. This growing group of students needs an alternative to Gymnasium—one that focuses on real-world readiness, not just theory.

Internships today expect more than motivation. Employers look for:

• digital and creative skills

• confidence and communication

• teamwork and responsibility

• early portfolios or examples of work

These skills are rarely taught explicitly in school. That’s where a gap year program in Zurich or a structured post-secondary program can make a real difference.

Turning New Year’s resolutions into real progress

A common resolution for teenagers is “to figure things out.” At nao academy, we turn that intention into action. Our English–German bilingual program in Zurich helps students actively build skills instead of waiting for opportunities to appear.

Through hands-on learning, students develop:

• digital skills for teenagers interested in creative fields

• foundational design and digital media abilities

• collaboration and communication skills in English and German

• early student portfolio development

• confidence in professional and social settings

This is not about rushing decisions—it’s about career preparation for teens who need time, structure, and guidance to grow.

A gap year with purpose

As a gap year school in Switzerland, nao academy is designed for students who want to use a year wisely. Our program supports those preparing for their first internship in Switzerland, particularly in creative and digital roles.

By the end of the year, students are better prepared—not only with skills, but with clarity, maturity, and direction. They understand how workplaces function, what is expected of them, and how to present themselves professionally.

A simple resolution: Invest in skills that last

This New Year, the most valuable resolution a student can make is to invest in learning skills that open doors. With the right environment, mentorship, and structure, one year can become a powerful launchpad.

At nao academy, we help students turn uncertainty into confidence—and resolutions into real opportunities.