Every summer, HBCU students step beyond the classroom and into opportunities that bring their ambitions to life. Through internships with leading companies and organizations, they gain more than just professional experience—they discover the power of aligning their passions with real-world impact. These bright minds are not only building résumés but also breaking barriers, making connections, and preparing to lead in industries where their voices and talents are needed most. This article highlights 10 outstanding students who spent their summer pursuing purpose-driven work, each carving a path toward success while representing the excellence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities:
- Jalen Weathers
HBCU Represented: North Carolina A&T State University
Internship Company: Boeing —— Flight Simulation Software Engineer Intern
Key Takeaways/Lessons: Three of the biggest takeaways I learned from my summer at Boeing are to not sell yourself short. We are surrounded by intelligent men and women, and the smart ones are the people who ask questions. Never be afraid to ask, and don’t shy away from hard tasks. “Run to the fire.” Next, have enthusiasm. Be happy to help people and make yourself a valued member of the team. Do not fall into the trap of thinking that some jobs are beneath you; treat everyone with respect. Character is what makes or breaks you and is how you will be remembered. My last major takeaway is to have an open mind. Once you close your mind, you open yourself up to failure. Being more aware of the world is what makes you interesting, so protect the way you think.
2. Shaela-Ashley Pierre
HBCU Represented: Savannah State University
Internship Company: Walt Disney World —— Internship Disney College Program x HBCU Cohort
Key Takeaways/Lessons: This summer, participating in the Disney College Program as a member of the HBCU Cohort has been an unforgettable and transformative experience. From gaining hands-on industry knowledge to building meaningful connections, I’ve grown both personally and professionally. It’s been an honor to represent Black excellence while helping create the magic that makes Disney so special.
3. Adekunle Ajayi
HBCU Represented: Southern University and A&M College
Internship Company: TMCF Dr. N. Joyce Payne Center for Social Justice —— MacArthur Research Fellow
Key Takeaways/Lessons: As a MacArthur Research Fellow in Washington, D.C., I conducted research on pressing social justice issues impacting the Black community, authored a Black Criminology Primer, and assisted in organizing a national criminal justice conference. This experience sharpened my ability to translate academic research into community-centered advocacy. I gained valuable insight into how data-driven policy can address systemic inequities and how strategic programming can educate and empower marginalized populations. Most importantly, I learned how collaborative scholarship can be used as a powerful tool for justice reform and lasting social impact.
4. Katheryn Moore
HBCU Represented: Virginia State University
Internship Company: Universal Music Group —— Social Media Rep Intern
Key Takeaways/Lessons: One of my biggest takeaways so far is realizing that we all have the same 24 hours in a day—it’s really about how you choose to spend them. I never imagined I’d be doing something I love in two completely different industries at the same time, while still making time for myself and my personal growth. Around the same time, I discovered Gainsight, along with Universal Group, and was immediately drawn to their mission and culture. I could not have been more excited to accept a social media internship with them, and I’m incredibly grateful to be learning and growing under two companies that represent completely different corners of the professional world. This summer has exceeded all my expectations, and I’m so proud of how far I’ve come.
5. Samiyah Allen
HBCU Represented: Spelman College
Internship Company: Georgia Power —— Region External Affairs Intern
Key Takeaways/Lessons: I have had the opportunity to engage in a variety of impactful community-focused projects. I participated in strategic conversations with local leaders, providing insight on the future of energy in Georgia and helping to share resources that support clean, affordable, and reliable power. I’ve been the voice for Georgia Power and the community to make sure we’re being a good partner with each other.
The biggest takeaway or thing I’ve learned from this internship is how external affairs professionals build and maintain strong community relationships. Learning this perspective has helped me want to apply this with other things that I am interested in as far as marketing and communications because it can go a long way.
6. Layla Evans
HBCU Represented: Southern University and A&M College
Internship Company: Shell —— Intern
Key Takeaways/Lessons: This summer, I interned as a Pressure Equipment Integrity intern with Shell, where I applied technical knowledge from school to real-world projects in static and rotating equipment. I learned the importance of prioritizing tasks, maintaining work-life balance, and saying yes to growth opportunities.
One of my biggest lessons was the value of genuine connections. My supervisor, buddy, and manager—all HBCU alumni—showed me the power of representation and community. This experience strengthened both my engineering foundation and my pride in being a Southern University Jaguar.
7. Jeremiah Hunt
HBCU Represented: Alabama A&M University
Internship Company: Breakthrough Birmingham —— Intern
Key Takeaways/Lessons: No matter what environment or workspace you work into, always go into it with a positive mindset. Also, never let anyone belittle you because of where you come from. Instead, make the best out of your environment & be a proud product of it.
8. Amiya McCollough
HBCU Represented: Tuskegee University
Internship Company: The Boeing Company —— Intern
Key Takeaways/Lessons: My biggest takeaways from this summer are to always ask questions about anything, because someone will know the answer; keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to try or learn something new, since you don’t know everything and may discover something you enjoy that you never knew existed; and be honest and speak up for yourself—if you don’t like the work you’re doing or don’t have enough to do, voice it, because most of the time your superiors can find something that better fits your interests.
9. Mar’Quavious Clayton
HBCU Represented: Alabama State University
Internship Company: The Home Depot —— AI Internship
Key Takeaways/Lessons: This summer, I learned the value of innovation and collaboration in shaping customer experiences through AI. Working with The Home Depot, I gained insight into how data-driven solutions can enhance engagement, streamline shopping, and build loyalty. I also learned how to present ideas clearly and confidently while working with a diverse team of professionals. This experience helped me grow both personally and professionally and affirmed my passion for tech and storytelling.
10. Amaya Waymon
HBCU Represented: Tuskegee University
Internship Company: Center for Excellence Public & Government Service
Key Takeaways/Lessons: This summer, I built meaningful relationships that have the potential to lead to long-term opportunities while also learning the true value of networking rooted in genuine connection rather than pure ambition. I gained valuable insight into how to navigate professional spaces as a Black leader, strengthening both my confidence and perspective. Additionally, I had the opportunity to visit the Department of Homeland Security, where I gained a deeper understanding of national security and its impact on the world around us.
As these stories show, HBCU students are not only stepping into internships—they’re stepping into their futures. By building connections, pursuing passions, and gaining skills that will last a lifetime, they continue to prove the power and promise of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Their summer endeavors remind us that when talent meets opportunity, the impact reaches far beyond the season—it shapes leaders, industries, and communities for years to come.
