What’s Involved in a Design Internship?
A design internship provides an opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in the field of design. Internships may involve assisting with various design tasks, such as web design, photo editing, graphic design, or physical product design. Interns will work closely with experienced professionals to develop their skills and create useful, real-world projects.
What Do Design Interns Do Day-to-Day?
The tasks that a design intern works on varies depending on the company and design team. Generally, the day-to-day responsibilities of a design intern involve helping with all aspects of the design process, from brainstorming and concepting to the development of graphics and layouts. Interns are often asked to do research, create prototypes, test products, and provide feedback. Interns may also help with tasks like creating presentations, monitoring trends, keeping up with design software, formatting documents, and organizing files.
Do Companies Hire Students From Their Design Internship Program?
Yes, many companies offer the opportunity to hire students from their internship program. The process varies by company, but some offer formal job postings and hiring processes to those who complete their internships. This is beneficial as employers gain a better understanding of the applicant’s skills and interests, while interns gain professional work experience.
What Are Design Internship Interviews Like?
Design internship interviews tend to focus heavily on technical skills and creative abilities. Employers will use this time to assess an applicant’s ability to think creatively and their knowledge of the design software they use. Applicants should come prepared to discuss their experience with the software and understand the various design principles.
What Skills Are Needed to Be Successful in a Design Internship, and How Can You Acquire Them Through an Internship Program?
The technical and creative skills needed to succeed in a design internship can vary depending on the company you’re applying to and the specific tasks involved. Basic skills such as working with Adobe Creative Suite, HTML/CSS, Sketch, and other design programs are key. Interns should also have good problem-solving skills, be able to take feedback, and be able to work both independently and collaboratively as required.
The Benefits of Interning in Design
Interning in design provides students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience. Interns can learn in-depth about the design industry, network with professionals, and develop valuable skills, such as problem-solving, creativity, and project management. Interning also introduces students to the tools and resources available for design success, such as design software, prototyping, and collaboration.
Tips for Making the Most of your Design Internship Experience
To make the most of your design Internship, participate in activities that will help you develop your skills and network with industry professionals. Look for opportunities to engage in problem-solving and creative initiatives, and ask for feedback during critiques and reviews. Also, keep a portfolio of your work to help you reflect on your accomplishments and showcase your design skills.