2019 Summer Fellow Interview: Imani Roberson

By Doruntina Zeneli

Imani Roberson is a rising senior at Boston University (BU) majoring in Public Relations and Political science. She’s also a proud Detroiter. On campus, Imani is heavily involved in the Inner Strength Gospel Choir and is the incoming president of Boston University’s Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).  Imani is a Residence Advisor for Upper Bay State Road and enjoys helping students find their grounding at BU. In her free time, she enjoys photography and videography. Imani has been passionate about equality since a very young age and aims to be an agent of change for her community.  She will be a fellow for the Mayor’s Office of Resilience and Racial Equity (MORRE), City of Boston this summer.

Why did you choose to apply for this fellowship and how did you hear about it?

I first heard about the fellowship when an IOC representative came to speak to my PO320 class. The class was through the MetroBridge program and gave us all the opportunity to do policy research for the cities of Everett and Watertown and present this research to the cities.  This fellowship opportunity was presented at the perfect time. It combines many of my passions into one! I’ve always been passionate about equality and want to work in local government because I believe that’s where you can have the most impact.

What do you hope to accomplish or gain from the fellowship this summer?

I really want to be challenged this summer, genuinely help people and make an impact on the community. I’m excited to grow in my knowledge and abilities as well.

How did you first become interested in racial and economic inequality?

As early I can remember, when I was in the 3rd grade my teacher did an activity where she dotted some of our hands and not others. My hand did not have a dot. Therefore, I couldn’t enjoy any of the perks that the dots had, which included going to recess or eating candy. My 3rd grade self decided to make a sign that said “segregation no more.” I held it up while my teacher was lecturing and I remember feeling pride because I knew I was doing the right thing.

What would you tell other students if they were considering applying for the fellowship?

I would tell students to make sure they’re passionate about the work that they’re doing. Sometimes the work will be tough, but having that passion will help you push through any adversity.