As the academic year comes to a close, Spelman women are preparing for a summer filled with groundbreaking opportunities. Whether in politics, the beauty industry, or the corporate world, Spelmanites are stepping into internships and experiences that will allow them to make meaningful contributions and shape their futures. From policy to beauty, business, and the arts, Spelman students are embracing opportunities that align with their passions and pave the way for impactful careers.
Kharma Wilson (CO ‘2027), a Political Science major, is headed to Austin, Texas, where she will intern as a public policy research fellow. “The REU program at the University of Texas offers me the chance to apply my academic background to real-world challenges, particularly in the areas of race and social justice,” Wilson shared. “I see this as an opportunity to not only enhance my research skills but also contribute to policies that can make a tangible difference in people’s lives.” By diving into research that informs public policy, Wilson is eager to contribute to change that can ultimately make a positive impact on the communities she cares about. Wilson’s internship reflects Spelman’s commitment to preparing its students to lead in the areas of race, justice, and societal change.
On a different but equally transformative path, Bailey Johnson (CO ‘2026), an English major with a Management & Organization minor, will spend the summer interning at Fenty Beauty, a brand known for its commitment to inclusivity. Johnson was inspired by Fenty’s actions when they came to Spelman to launch their new foundation, hosting a campus event with shade matching and giveaways. “Fenty didn’t just talk about inclusivity; they acted on it,” Johnson shared. This summer, Johnson will focus on competitive analysis and product strategy for Fenty Hair, examining how the brand can continue to grow and meet the evolving needs of consumers. She’s particularly excited to dive into the marketing side of beauty, especially influencer marketing. “I want to understand the business side of beauty marketing and how companies engage with influencers,” she explained. Johnson sees this as a chance to not only contribute to a growing brand but also advocate for positive change in the beauty industry. “I want people to see that they can do it too,” she said, reflecting on her journey from first intern to returning team member.
Micah Fleming (CO ‘2028), a freshman with a passion for law, will spend her summer interning with the Los Angeles Public Defender’s Office as a legal intern. Growing up in Los Angeles, Fleming was drawn to public defense after being inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement and the desire to contribute to her community. “I wanted to stay local and find an opportunity to make a difference,” she explained. “This internship gives me the chance to learn directly from legal professionals and explore my interest in criminal law.” Throughout her internship, Fleming is excited to gain courtroom experience, enhance her legal research skills, and engage in tasks that will provide a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system. “I’m especially eager to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds, as I believe my perspective as a Black woman will allow me to relate to them in a unique way,” she shared. This internship is not only a significant step in Fleming’s legal journey but also an opportunity to contribute to positive change in her community.
Meanwhile, Dalyn Booker (CO ‘2027), an Art History major, will be interning at David Tunick, Inc., a prestigious art gallery in New York City. Dalyn’s passion for art was sparked by early exposure to world-class institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. “Seeing art as living history is what really drove me to pursue a career in the arts,” Booker shared. This summer, she will assist with art handling, conduct condition checks on old master paintings, and gain experience writing about prints. “I’m excited to get a glimpse of everything that goes into running a gallery,” Booker explained. Reflecting on how working in a gallery differs from working in a museum, Booker said, “Galleries focus more on selling works, while museums are about preservation and public sharing.” This internship is helping Booker decide whether she wants to pursue a career in a gallery or museum, with a focus on expanding her network within the art world. “New York is known as the capital of the art world in the U.S., so I’m excited to be part of that dynamic environment,” Booker added, eager to immerse herself in the fast-paced art world of the city.
Finally, Lailani Mbandi (CO ‘2027), a Sociology major with an Entrepreneurship & Innovation minor, will be interning at Deloitte, one of the leading global consulting firms. Initially unsure about consulting, Mbandi found the field intriguing for its diversity and the broad range of opportunities it offers in business. “I thought I wanted to do marketing, but consulting offers such a wide range of opportunities in business—finance, marketing, and beyond,” Mbandi shared. This internship has already opened many doors, providing valuable insights into the business world, especially in serving clients and creating deliverables. Mbandi is excited to apply her background in sociology to consulting projects. “I come from a very different background compared to many of the other interns, but I know that my understanding of human groups will be really helpful when working on human capital projects,” she explained. Looking forward to hands-on experience with long-term consulting cases, Mbandi said, “This internship has already taught me so much about the business world, and it’s definitely helping me build my confidence in consulting.”
As these Spelman women head into their summer internships, they’re not just preparing for their future careers—they are actively shaping the industries they’re entering. Whether it’s influencing policy, championing inclusivity in beauty, or curating art., Spelman students are making their mark. Their summer experiences are laying the foundation for a lifetime of leadership, empowerment, and professional excellence, all while embodying the legacy of Spelman College.
