More than just an internship.

Experience is something that can't be gained in a classroom. It has to be acquired through participation. As an organization dedicated to providing each generation with the tools to make greater advances than its predecessor, BLACK ENTERPRISE continues to offer college undergraduates and graduates the opportunity to obtain knowledge and skills that will stay with them for a lifetime. As a member of the 2005 Internship Program, I was one of the recipients of this real-world education.

The intense, 10-week program separates BE from other companies. "You are to never use the term intern," said Editor-In-Chief Alfred A. Edmond Jr. during our orientation. "You are an employee of BE and you will be treated as such."

The company searches for the best young professionals with the goal of training them to perform at their best. More than 500 applicants from across the country vied for a chance to witness BE behind the scenes, but only 10 were chosen.

In the editorial department, I had a chance to work side by side with the publication's editors, as did Janelle A. Williams, a 2005 graduate of Howard University with a degree in print journalism and Erinn R. Johnson, a senior at Hampton University majoring in print journalism. Kassel Pierre-Jean, a 2005 Hofstra University graduate with a degree in print journalism, worked with the copyediting staff, while Yesenia Taveras, a senior at Morgan State University studying broadcast journalism, helped develop content for the radio program. Corporate communications welcomed Kelly S. Beaty and Ashley Foxx. Beaty is finishing her graduate studies in public communication at American University, and Foxx is a 2005 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in communication/English. Working for the advertising department in ad sales and production was Armon J. Moore, a junior graphic communication major at North Carolina A&T University. Alphonso Caldwell, a junior at St. John's University majoring in sports management, and Nkechi Olisemeka, a 2005 graduate of Spelman College with a degree in English, tackled event planning for Black Enterprise Unlimited. Caldwell assisted with the 2005 Golf & Tennis Challenge, held Labor Day weekend at the Doral Golf Resort & Spa in Miami. This time around Olisemeka, who spent last summer working in BE's editorial department, helped lay the foundation for the Women of Power Summit to be held Feb. 1-4, 2006, at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa in Phoenix.

Olisemeka's return was not a result of luck but rather a sign that her hard work and diligence did not go unnoticed. The staff takes pride in being able to welcome back talented individuals whom they have worked with and prepped for the professional world.

Former summer associates who are now employed by the company include Interactive Media Director Tariq Muhammad (class of 1994), Consumer Affairs Editor Tanisha A. Sykes (class of 1993), and News Editor Nicole Marie Richardson (class of 2000). Although none expected to return as a staff member, each is genuinely appreciative of the opportunity that prepared them for the next level. "Being an intern at BE was a great introduction to journalism but it also helped me get a better understanding of what it takes to be successful in any field or endeavor," says Muhammad. "It gave me a leg up on the competition."

Although not all interns return to work for RE, many continue their relationship with the organization as freelancers. In this issue, the Consumer Alert feature, "Stolen Lives," which delves into the plight of identity theft, was written by Stephanie Young (class of 2004). Also, Raelyn Johnson (class of 2001) wrote the Shopsmart article "The DMV Helps You Fight Fraud," which explores the dangers of Social Security numbers on driver's licenses.

The hands-on experience of BE summer associates, past and present, gave them the courage to achieve, wisdom to function, and dedication to excel. BE promises to continue reaching back, challenging young professionals to meet and exceed all expectations, thus proving that the possibilities are limitless.

Tennille M. Robinson

2004 graduate, Xavier University of Louisiana