Apr 06
how to get a graphic design internship

How to Get a Graphic Design Internship

Getting your foot in the door of the design industry isn’t just about talent—it’s about strategy.

And if you’re reading this, you’re likely trying to figure out how to land that first big opportunity: a graphic design internship.

The truth? Companies aren’t just looking for “good” design. They want people who understand how to present themselves, communicate clearly, and deliver work that fits within real-world creative systems.

This guide breaks down how to build a competitive portfolio, where to find internship opportunities, and what it really takes to stand out in a crowded field.

Where Do You Actually Find Design Internships?

It’s not enough to just “put yourself out there.” You need to know where the best opportunities live—and how to access them.

1. Start with Your School’s Career Resources

Still in school? Don’t overlook your campus career center.

Many universities have partnerships with agencies, nonprofits, and brands who trust those schools to recommend capable interns. And the alumni network? Gold.

Reach out to grads who are working in the design field—you’ll be surprised how willing people are to help someone from their alma mater.

2. Use Design-Focused Job Boards

Not all job sites are created equal.

Platforms like Behance, Dribbble, and Coroflot have internship listings tailored to creative roles. Many include portfolio uploads, giving you a leg up right out of the gate.

Also check:

  • LinkedIn (use the “internship” filter + creative fields)
  • AIGA job board
  • AngelList (for startup design teams)

Set alerts, and check back weekly. Consistency wins.

3. Go to Where Designers Actually Hang Out

Conferences and events might seem intimidating, but they’re one of the fastest ways to get noticed.

Look for:

  • AIGA regional events
  • Adobe MAX
  • Local design portfolio reviews (often hosted in cities like Atlanta)

Bring business cards, a mini printed portfolio, or a QR code to your online site. A 10-minute conversation in the right room can do more than 100 cold emails.

What Makes You Stand Out as a Design Intern?

You don’t need 10 years of experience—you need the ability to show you’re serious, capable, and creative under pressure.

1. Build a Portfolio That Tells a Clear Story

Even if you don’t have client work, you can still create a compelling body of work.

Include:

The key is to focus on quality over quantity. Show variety in style and execution, but make sure everything is tight.

If you’ve done group projects, explain your role. Walk through the problem and your creative solution. Don’t just share the final visual—share your thinking.

2. Treat Your Resume Like a Design Project

Your resume isn’t just an admin task—it’s part of your visual identity.

Make sure it:

  • Uses a clean, grid-based layout
  • Has visual hierarchy that draws the eye
  • Includes relevant tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, etc.)
  • Lists your portfolio site or personal domain
  • Calls out school projects, freelance work, or even competition entries

You’re applying for a visual role. The resume should reflect that without overdoing it. Think minimal, thoughtful, and well-organized.

3. Write a Cover Letter That Isn’t a Snoozefest

Skip the jargon. Speak like a real person who’s excited about the company.

Do your research. Mention a campaign they did or a client they serve. Show how your skill set (and mindset) would be a great addition to their team.

Make the letter personal, specific, and concise. No fluff. No templates. Just your voice—and your value.

Why Networking Matters (Even If You Hate It)

Let’s say it clearly: most internships don’t go to the person with the best skills. They go to the person who’s visible.

1. In-Person > Inbox

Attend creative meetups. Go to gallery shows, workshops, or speaker events in your city.

If you’re in a design-rich city like Atlanta, show up regularly. Be the person people start to recognize. When a studio is ready to bring on an intern, they’re more likely to pick someone they’ve already seen engaged.

2. Build a Smart Online Presence

Don’t underestimate your digital footprint.

  • Use LinkedIn to post projects or commentary on design trends
  • Use Instagram to show works-in-progress or style explorations
  • Tag relevant studios or hashtags in your posts

It’s not about “going viral.” It’s about staying active and showing your face in the digital conversation.

When someone Googles you, they should see more than a blank profile.

How Social Media Can Help You Get Hired

In a visual industry, your feed is your pitch.

1. Launch a Clean Portfolio Website

You don’t need to code it yourself. Tools like Squarespace, Webflow, and Adobe Portfolio make it easy to build a site that does the job.

Your site should include:

  • A clear homepage with who you are + what you do
  • 4–6 featured projects with context and captions
  • A contact page with your email, resume, and social links

Keep the design minimal and let your work breathe.

2. Use Your Social Platforms Strategically

You don’t need to become a full-time content creator. Just show up.

Post once a week, or biweekly:

  • Final mockups of recent projects
  • Time-lapses or before-and-afters
  • Favorite fonts or type explorations
  • Your process from sketch to final

Use the same handle across platforms if possible. It builds recognition and makes you easier to find.

Smart Tips That Give You an Edge

Sometimes the little things make the biggest difference.

Follow Up

If you’ve applied, sent your portfolio, or met someone at an event—follow up.

It’s respectful, professional, and keeps you top of mind.

Prepare for Interviews Like a Pro

Before you walk into an interview, know:

  • The company’s past projects
  • What they value creatively
  • How you’d fit into their team

Have your work ready to share—digitally or printed. Practice explaining your thinking clearly and confidently. They’re not just hiring your skills. They’re hiring your communication style.

Keep Learning

If you don’t land the internship right away, don’t get discouraged.

Use the time to:

  • Take on personal design challenges
  • Refine your portfolio
  • Watch tutorials to strengthen weak areas

Progress counts. And often, it leads to better opportunities than you originally imagined.

At the End of the Day

If you’re wondering how to get a graphic design internship, here’s the short version:

  • Build a lean, powerful portfolio that shows how you think
  • Design a resume that looks like a designer made it
  • Show up—online and offline
  • Keep your energy up, your work fresh, and your follow-up tight

Internships don’t happen by accident. But when you prepare well and present yourself with clarity, they become very achievable.

Ready to Level Up Your Internship Strategy?

At MOCK, the agency, we know how to help emerging designers sharpen their work, strengthen their pitch, and look good doing it.

Need help building your portfolio, defining your brand, or creating a leave-behind that actually gets remembered?

Let’s talk.

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