Leveling the Playing Field with Paid Internships

By Aguie Barrantes July 8, 2026
Walking into a networking event alone is not exactly comfortable. I didn't know anyone, and I wasn't sure I belonged there. But somewhere between the first conversation and the second, that feeling changed. This summer, as the Marketing & Communications Intern at Elevate+ , I've learned that internships are about much more than completing projects. Managing and developing the Intern Spotlight posts, creating social media content, and building a content calendar and other marketing materials, including this blog post, have strengthened my organization, creativity, and communication skills. My biggest takeaway has been that building a personal brand starts before anyone is watching . Outside of Elevate+, one of my professors from Seton Hall introduced me to the opportunity to attend a two-day networking event at Next League. While I was nervous at first, I reminded myself that growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone . Connecting with students and professionals across the sports industry showed there isn't one path to success. Alongside Elevate+, I’ve also balanced two other part-time jobs with FC Motown and Momento. Whether it’s working long hours in the summer heat or adjusting to unexpected changes during a live event, I’ve learned that success comes from being adaptable and thinking on the fly. These experiences have shown me that the most valuable growth happens when you’re willing to step up and show up , regardless of the circumstances. Looking back on the first half of the summer, I’ve realized that my biggest growth hasn't come from checking projects off a list. It's come from putting myself in unfamiliar situations, asking questions, and embracing opportunities that once felt intimidating . As I head into the second half of the summer, my goal is to be more intentional about following up with the professionals I meet. I've had the opportunity to connect with many people, but I want those conversations to turn into meaningful, lasting relationships. Showing up is only the first step; following up is what makes a connection memorable .
By Andrew Walker May 20, 2026
Newark, NJ native and Emory University graduate returns to Elevate+ after two prior internships and continued leadership with the organization’s Role Model Series
By Andrew Walker May 19, 2026
It's All Come Together!

About Elevate+

“I felt my work was valued and fairly compensated, which made a huge difference in how confident I felt showing up every day.”

Elevate to Even Plus (Elevate+) levels the playing field for underrepresented young adults by expanding access to the formative, paid work experiences they need to succeed. We deliver high-impact professional development programming and help mission-aligned organizations connect with promising young talent—advancing equity, opportunity, and long-term economic mobility.


Elevate+ Stories of Success

Our Mission

Elevate+ disrupts systemic inequality by connecting underserved students to transformative, paid internships and professional development programming that serve as launching pads for career success.

Our Vision

We envision a world where every young person has equal access to formative work experiences—regardless of economic status, geography, or the legacy of structural inequity. When Elevate+ achieves its mission, students from disenfranchised communities will rise as far as their drive, talent, and ambition can take them.

Our Purpose

Too often, students from underserved and disenfranchised communities are denied access to the formative internships that build skills, confidence, and professional networks. Elevate+ levels the playing field by connecting these students to high-quality, paid internships and surrounding them with the mentorship, training, and support they need to thrive. The result: young people gain real-world experience, meaningful connections, and a stronger foundation for long-term success in the workplace—and beyond.

Thanks to Our Supporters

Our Stakeholders

SUPPORTERS

Elevate+’s ability to transform lives depends on the generosity of others who believe in our mission and purpose. 

SUPPORT INTERNS
HOSTING ORGANIZATIONS

Nonprofits & For-profits offering internship experiences to students. Funding is available to nonprofit partners for intern wages.

HOST INTERNS
TALENT POOLS

Schools, foundations and community groups identifying qualified interns

SOURCE INTERNS

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