The return of the ESSENCE and Girls United summer internship program is officially here, and applications are now open for the Super Intern cohort. This eight-week program offers a premier professional development experience for the next generation of Black creatives and innovators. Designed for undergraduate and graduate students, this pathway provides expertise by embedding participants within one specific department to learn the inner workings of a global media network.
Super Interns operate as the backbone of the summer, working directly from the Brooklyn office on long-term content, marketing, and brand strategy. Throughout the program, participants contribute to high-level projects that culminate in the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. This festival to boardroom experience allows students to see the full lifecycle of a brand, taking ideas from the planning stages in New York to live execution in New Orleans. By the end of the summer, every intern earns a capstone credential, having co-launched a new brand initiative that serves as a tangible, high-quality case study for their professional portfolio.
The program is exclusively available to current college juniors and seniors and graduates who are passionate about media and digital storytelling. This is a paid opportunity with compensation distributed on a semi-monthly basis. Because the role is based in Brooklyn, candidates must reside in or secure their own accommodations near the office, as ESSENCE does not provide or reimburse for local room and board. However, for the transition to the festival in New Orleans, travel and festival-related lodging are provided for all confirmed Super Interns.
To apply, student leaders should submit their materials through the official application portal, showcasing a strong point of view and a desire to shape the narratives that move the culture forward. Applicants must be prepared to work in a fast-paced environment and demonstrate a proven interest in fields such as brand marketing, event production, or content creation. Interested candidates should apply now to join a legacy dedicated to uplifting Black voices and building a professional network that lasts a lifetime. The deadline is Thursday April 16th.