Ashlyn Conley ’26 (sociology major, business management minor) interned in spring 2023 at Historic Sotterley in Hollywood, Maryland. Conley contributed photographically and through video to help build those assets for the museum’s print advertising and social media efforts.

“Sotterley's education director and my personal internship mentor, Katherine Humphries, is an incredible storyteller; she gave me insight into the historical perspective of the grounds,” Conley said.

Conley's internship experience was unique to her but the opportunity was a guarantee through the Honors College Promise as at St. Mary's College students are guaranteed the opportunity to pursue an internship, research experience or international study. That promise is supported by the College's LEAD Initiative (Learning through Experiential and Applied Discovery by blending together a thoughtful and purposeful academic experience with professional skill development, weaving credit-bearing courses and hands-on opportunities into every program of study.

“To be able to work for some sort of social change nonprofit, preferably one that is very hands-on in its community, would be the dream! I can say with 100% confidence my experience with Historic Sotterley gave me an inside look into that realm of work,” Conley said.