World's Greatest Internship

You should select me because

I believe that my experience as a graphic designer, illustrator, and musician gives me a unique, holistic approach to creativity and craft that sets me apart from other applicants. I always bring a growth mindset and positive attitude to every situation, and I know that I can handle any challenge that I face.

1. Why are you interested in wgi?

There is nothing I value more than a hands-on learning environment with masters of the craft. WGI's mission of putting interns on the front lines of established, talented design firms really resonated with my learning style. At this stage in my career, I know I need to be studying under professionals in the industry, and WGI is the best platform for my interests.

2. What are you looking to gain from an experience such as WGI?

I'm hoping to see the inner workings of successful firms; I very interested in understanding the balance between executing creative projects and running a business. People are my greatest source of inspiration, and it's important for me to be surrounded by mentors who can perform their duties at the highest level.

3. What would be your goals after completing WGI if you were selected?

My goal is to pursue continue my career in design, using what I learned in the WGI program to inform my practice and keep my focus on creating sustainable, meaningful communication materials across a variety of media.

4. How did you hear about wgi?

I heard about WGI through an advertisement on Instagram.

5. Share an example of a time you were most motivated and a time you were most demotivated.

The time I was recently most motivated was during a freelance project I finished earlier this year. I was working with a client on creating branding materials and various art/layouts for a debut album release. The artist had just changed the name of his group and needed a fresh look to establish the vibe of the new direction. We worked together to create an identity, and while he was very particular about the vibe of the visuals, he was also a great listener and valued my perspective as a designer. I was extremely motivated to put my best foot forward because of the discipline for his vision, and I felt like I really grew from working on the project. The time I was most recently demotivated was at my part-time job at a bike shop. There was a disagreement in the management team, and the lack of communication between the executive team and the problems that it created for the people who worked the shop was very disheartening. I never want to work for people who are okay with letting petty arguments get in the way of productivity and a good workplace environment.

6. In your opinion, what creates a great culture at a company?

I think a great culture comes from the people who make up the company. I'm drawn to people that can strike a balance between positivity and pragmatism; I think if every person is communicative, open-minded and flexible, the culture of a workplace will be excellent. However, I think leadership also plays an important role, by creating a structured environment where people know the part they play and how everyone is connected.

7. What brands and companies do you admire and why?

I really admire the Austin, TX based firm LAND, for their dedication to storytelling and branding. All of their projects affect an honesty and conviction that is hard to find in the industry today. Hoodzpah, out of Orance County, LA, is one of my favorite design collectives around. The Hood sisters have an incredibly sharp eye for creating engaging graphics that lend their clients an unparalleled soulfulness and vivacity. Another company I love is the NYC-based Gretel firm; their straightforward approach to visual communication has really resonated across the industry. And finally, I'm very inspired by the work of UK-based illustrator-designer Caterina Bianchini. I love her playful approach to creating a brand identity and how it informs all of the materials of a campaign.

8. What do you do to stay sharp and improve your craft?

Lately, I've been making an effort to create something every morning. Whether it's a small drawing, or an edit of phone picture, or working on music, I find that consistency is key for keeping my creative skills sharp. Another big part of staying inspired is checking out new work on networks like Behance, Pinterest and Instagram. In addition to checking out new work, I've been revisiting classic design literature to hone my grasp of the fundamental tenets of the craft. And of course, taking on new freelance projects.

9. What’s your favorite quote?

My favorite quote right now is a line from the poetry of Charles Rafferty - "In every apple an orchard awaits, but who has twenty years to cultivate it?"

10. If you could solve one problem in the world what would it be?

Cameron Cook

My goal is to pursue continue my career in design, using what I learned in the WGI program to inform my practice and keep my focus on creating sustainable, meaningful communication materials across a variety of media.

I heard about WGI through an advertisement on Instagram.

My favorite quote right now is a line from the poetry of Charles Rafferty - *"In every apple an orchard awaits, but who has twenty years to cultivate it?"*

My favorite quote right now is a line from the poetry of Charles Rafferty - "In every apple an orchard awaits, but who has twenty years to cultivate it?"