How to get a design internship: Your ultimate guide

Are you a college student seeking some real world experience? Or an aspiring designer eager to kickstart your career in the design industry. Landing a design internship is your golden ticket to jumpstart your journey and give you some insight into what the future may hold for you.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to secure that desired design internship and set yourself up for success. Let's dive in!

Polish Your Portfolio

Before you even think about applying for internships, ensure your design portfolio is in top shape. Your portfolio is your visual resume and the first impression potential employers will have of your work. Include your best projects, showcasing your skills, creativity, and versatility. Make sure it's organized, easy to navigate, and highlights your unique style. Consider including a variety of different projects that demonstrate your ability to work in a variety of ways, i.e if you are searching for a UX Design internship the try to include both mobile and website case studies, and if you are really eager to impress try include an tablet or digital watch case study. Don't forget to update your portfolio regularly to showcase your most recent work.

Top tip: Give a lot of attention to your UI design. Of course the process is important, but having eye catching designs can dramatically improve your chances with recruiters, after all they may only look at your portfolio for a few seconds so having great visual design may just be the difference!

Tailor each Resume and Cover Letter you send

Your resume and cover letter should be tailored to the specific internship you're applying for. Yes, this takes that extra bit of time when applying for each job, but BELIEVE ME, it makes such a difference. Employers really do see when you've put in that extra bit of work to learn about what their business strive to do.

You should try to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Use action verbs, quantify your accomplishments, and keep it concise. In your cover letter, explain why you're passionate about design and why you want to intern with that particular company. Show how your skills and experience align with their needs and values.

Top tip: Google top designers portfolios and look for some that have their resume on their website. In doing this you can see how they structure their resumes, and how they describe their experiences, achievements etc.

Leverage Online Platforms

Many companies actively seek interns through platforms such as LinkedIn, Behance and Dribblble. This is a great way to utilize networking platforms while also showcasing your work. Keep on the look outout for any potential job opeings and always try to connect with potential employers.

Networking online can be as effective as in-person networking and can open doors to opportunities you may not have discovered otherwise. Actively participate in discussions related to design trends, tools, and techniques to demonstrate your knowledge and passion.

Top tip: Connect with head designers or hiring managers on linkendin and always connect with a note. Even if they can't help you themsleves they may just point you in the right direction.

Attend Design Events and Workshops

Networking is a crucial aspect of finding an internship. Attend design-related events, conferences, and workshops online, or if there happen to be any in your area. As daunting as this may sound, the design community in always very helpful towards aspiring designers and you will find people will be more than happy to help and share thier wisdom. You never know who you might meet, and these connections may just lead to an internship opportunities. In addition to networking, these events can provide valuable insights into the industry's latest trends and innovations.

Reach Out to Your Network

Don't hesitate to tap into your personal and professional network. Let your friends, family, and acquaintances know you're looking for a design internship. They may have connections or insights that could help you land the perfect opportunity. Networking doesn't always mean attending large events; it can be as simple as reaching out to former classmates, professors, or colleagues for advice or referrals. If you are currently a college student, then a great way to find potential employers is by asking peers in the year above you about their internship experience and what companies they applied for.

Prepare for Interviews

Once you start receiving interview invitations, be well-prepared. Research common interview questions and practice your responses. Be ready to discuss your portfolio, your design process, and how you can contribute to the company's success. Show enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Interviews are your chance to demonstrate not only your skills but also your personality and fit with the company culture. Practice answering both technical questions about design techniques and soft skills questions about teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. You should definetly consider conducting mock interviews with a mentor or professor to build your confidence.

Show Your Passion

During interviews and in your application materials, express your passion for design. Share personal design projects or volunteer work related to your field. Employers are often looking for candidates who are genuinely passionate about what they do. Your passion can set you apart from other applicants and show that you are motivated to excel in your role. Be ready to discuss your favorite design projects and what inspires you in the field. Passion can be contagious, and it can make potential employers more excited about bringing you on board.

Follow Up

After interviews or submitting applications, don't forget to follow up. Send a polite thank-you email expressing your continued interest in the position. This simple gesture can set you apart from other candidates. Following up shows your professionalism and commitment to the opportunity. It also provides you with an additional opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the position and to reiterate why you are the ideal candidate. Keep your follow-up concise and to the point, and avoid being overly persistent. A well-timed and courteous follow-up can leave a positive impression.

Prepare for Design Tests and Challenges

Some companies may require you to complete design tests or challenges during the interview process. These tests are meant to assess your problem-solving skills and creativity. Be ready to tackle them with confidence and showcase your design prowess. Design tests are an opportunity to demonstrate your skills in action. Be prepared to explain your thought process and design choices as you work through the test or challenge. Pay attention to the specific instructions and requirements provided by the company, and ask for clarification if needed. These tests can be a chance to shine and prove your abilities.

Seek Feedback and Continuous Improvement

Even if you don't land your dream internship on your first try, don't be discouraged. Seek feedback from interviewers or mentors and use it as an opportunity for growth. Continuously improve your skills, update your portfolio, and keep applying to new opportunities. Rejections are a part of the job search process. Instead of letting them deter you, view them as opportunities for improvement. Reach out to interviewers for feedback on your interview performance and use their insights to enhance your skills and presentation. Keep learning, whether through online courses, workshops, or self-study, to stay current in the ever-evolving field of design.

Securing a design internship is an exciting step towards a fulfilling career in the creative industry. By polishing your portfolio, crafting tailored application materials, networking, and showing genuine passion, you can increase your chances of landing that dream internship. Remember that persistence and determination are key; don't be discouraged by rejection, but rather use it as motivation to improve and try again. Best of luck on your journey to landing a design internship that will kickstart your career!

For more tips and advice on all things design, stay tuned to The Design Rookies, the go-to resource aspiring designers.