Experience at Studio Inter
Almost four years ago I made the move from the Midlands to Newcastle to study Graphic Design at Northumbria University. At the time it felt like a big step, especially as my background before university wasn’t purely in graphic design. I had spent time exploring photography, product design and even geography, but creativity had always been the thread connecting everything I enjoyed.
It didn’t take long to settle into life in the North. The people are welcoming, the creative scene is inspiring, and Newcastle quickly started to feel like home. Three years later I graduated with a degree in Graphic Design, and, like most graduates, I was faced with the big question: what’s next?
Expectations before starting
Before starting my placement, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Having just finished university, the design industry can feel like a big and sometimes slightly intimidating space when you first step into it.
Leaving education also comes with the reality that you’re starting again from the beginning and gradually working your way up. That transition can feel overwhelming after years in a University environment where you’re encouraged to experiment and explore ideas freely, often without the pressures of live client work.
One thing I noticed very quickly at Inter was how supportive the environment felt. From early on I was encouraged to try things out, ask questions and work to my strengths within projects. Having that kind of environment makes a huge difference when you’re stepping into the industry for the first time and learning how the real world of design operates.
What I’ve worked on so far
During my time here I’ve had the opportunity to get involved in a variety of projects and contribute to live client work. One of the biggest learning curves has been understanding the parts of design that university doesn’t always prepare you for.
Things like working within client budgets, understanding licensing rules for typography and imagery, and ensuring design concepts work within real world constraints are all essential parts of the job. They’re not always things you encounter during university projects, but they play a huge role in professional design work.
One project I particularly enjoyed working on was MixedByLee. I was given the opportunity to explore branding concepts and develop ideas for social media assets, which allowed me to bring my own ideas and creative approach to the work. Presenting concepts and working within the client’s guidelines was also a valuable learning experience, helping me understand how to balance creativity with the practical needs of the project.
Another area I’ve already learned a lot from is Inter’s strategic process. At university we’re taught the importance of research, but working in a studio has shown me how that research is applied in a much deeper and more purposeful way. Understanding a client’s ambitions, their audience and their goals directly shapes the design work. It’s not just about creating something visually appealing, it’s about designing something that works for the business and improves how the brand is experienced.
Skills I have developed
Technically, I’ve learned a great deal during my internship. One of the main tools I’ve been working with is Figma. Getting hands-on experience with it on live projects has been incredibly valuable having not had any experience with it before.
It’s also made me realise just how quickly the design industry evolves. New tools, workflows and conversations around things like AI are constantly emerging.
Alongside the technical side, I’ve also gained a new appreciation for the fundamentals of design. Grids, layout systems and especially typography. Typography wasn’t always my favourite area when I was studying, but working in a studio environment has changed that. I’ve started to really enjoy the process of working with type and appreciate how small adjustments in spacing, hierarchy and placement can make a huge difference to the overall design.
What surprised me the most
One of the things that surprised me most about working in a design studio is how much time has been invested in helping me grow as a designer.
Of course, there are always deadlines and projects that move quickly, but I’ve also been given the opportunity to develop my skills and build confidence before being placed in situations where everything depends on them.
That balance has made the transition into professional design feel far less overwhelming and has allowed me to learn how to navigate live projects at a steady pace.
Advice for future interns
If I had one piece of advice for anyone looking for a design internship, it would be to show your personality.
Your portfolio and CV are important, but agencies also want to know who you are as a person. It helps to share your creative interests outside of university work. Personal projects, photography, illustration, or anything you’ve made simply because you felt inspired all say a lot about your curiosity and passion for design.
Breaking into the industry isn’t always easy, and rejection can be part of the process. The design world is becoming increasingly competitive, but enthusiasm, curiosity and a willingness to keep learning can take you a long way.
For me, this internship has been an incredibly valuable first step into the industry, and I’m excited to see where the journey goes next.
Written by
