The Rhodes Impact Summer Experience (RISE) empowered 15 students to engage with the greater Memphis area this summer through full-time, eight-week paid internships at nonprofit organizations.
Managed by Rhodes’ Center for Career and Professional Development, this program has provided participants with the chance to dive deep into their passions, hone their skills, and make meaningful contributions to the lives of those around them.
Lindsey Kate McElroy ’27, a history and international studies major from Birmingham, AL, devoted her summer to the Memphis Public Interest Law Center, an organization that passionately advocates for renters’ rights. During her internship, she engaged in vital research, attended court proceedings, and helped analyze cases. “The internship has made a profound impact on the way I see the law and the world,” said McElroy.
Skylier Clark ’27, an English major from Cordova, TN, found inspiration while working at Just City, an organization committed to criminal justice reform. “This internship has influenced my future goals of becoming a lawyer,” Clark said, while highlighting the invaluable lessons she learned about courtroom dynamics, the need for judicial accountability, and the persistent issues within the justice system.
Den Shestakova ’29, an aspiring filmmaker and media studies major from Russia, contributed her talents to Indie Memphis, an organization that showcases local filmmakers and hosts an annual film festival. She learned about the intricate logistics involved in screening diverse talents from Shelby County and beyond. “The internship exposed me to the organizational side in the industry for the first time, making me especially appreciative of the collaborative efforts and deliberate commitment it takes to craft independent films and manage their post-production.”
Mohammad Ahmed Hussain ’29, a psychology major from Pakistan, delivered nutritious meals to those who are homebound or living with disabilities through the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association (MIFA). “There is a coming together from all sorts of different backgrounds and identities to nurture, to unify, and to serve,” he reflected. Through collaboration and communication, he discovered the heartfelt narratives of MIFA’s clients, volunteers, and staff, while also telling their stories through film.
Elena Gentry ’28, a neuroscience major from Des Moines, IA, interned at Church Health, where she worked in the prevention and wellness center aimed at fostering healthy living for children ages six weeks to 12 years. Shadowing family practitioners and engaging with children, she embraced the holistic approach to health. “This internship fit into my long-term goal of family practice or internal medicine,” said Gentry. “I chose to participate in the RISE program because I wanted to spend a summer getting to know Memphis while working in my career field. I am grateful to RISE for this opportunity and an unforgettable summer.”
Beyond their internships, RISE participants earned F11 credit, explored the city, and participated in enriching group community-learning programs, all while leaving a positive and lasting mark on the Memphis community.