Two Xavier University of Louisiana students have been selected to participate in the prestigious Pay it Forward Internship program through Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. (UNITED)! 31 students were chosen from 17 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) within Coca-Cola UNITED’s six-state footprint as part of the company’s commitment to fostering talent in underserved communities. Xavier University was proudly represented by Darius Mullen, a sophomore majoring in Business Finance, and Kenadi Charles, a junior majoring in Business Management with a minor in Education. The internship celebrated their academic achievements while equipping them with the tools to build on their success.

The Pay It Forward program grants a $2,000 stipend to each participant and allows students to immerse themselves in the corporate world, gain invaluable insights, and establish connections with peers from other HBCUs across the Southeast. It also grants interns a lifetime Coca-Cola Brand Ambassadorship, ensuring that the connections and knowledge gained during this week-long journey will have a lasting impact on their futures.

Enthusiastically reflecting on his experiences, Mullen shared, “I took a chance and earned this amazing opportunity; the internship itself was great! The directors of the program are focused on HBCU students, so it was good to make connections with people from HBCUs across the Southwest region.”

Mullen expressed how he felt that Coca-Cola United sincerely cares for the well-being of their associates by making it abundantly clear that, no matter the position someone has in the company, there will always be opportunities to learn and grow in any of the 700+ jobs it offers. Mullen learned more about the ins and outs of the company, participated in team-building exercises, had fun trips around the city, and ate delicious food. He said one of the most powerful aspects of the internship was how it allowed him and the other interns to get to know each other outside of school and work.

“We built deeper connections with one another and are optimistic about staying in touch for all of our future endeavors... All in all, I had a great time, and I believe all students should take the chance and apply for this internship in the future,” he said.

Charles echoed sentiments similar to Mullen’s, emphasizing the impact of the experience on her professional and personal development.

“This transformative experience has provided me with insights into the corporate world, mentorship from professionals, and the opportunity to collaborate with collegiate peers,” said Charles. “I am committed to leveraging this experience to contribute meaningfully to my community and future career opportunities by Paying It Forward.”

As Xavier University of Louisiana approaches its centennial year, the university continues to make strides in producing future leaders. The involvement of its students in programs like Coca-Cola UNITED’s Pay It Forward internship and others highlights Xavier’s dedication to excellence and the success of its students in a supportive, driven environment.