Our summer design intern, Shira, shares 5 things she didn’t know before working behind the scenes on websites with us. Currently studying to be a Graphic Designer at York University, Shira reflects on her experiences while interning at LeverageIT.
1. You Don’t Have to be a Developer to Design Websites
While it’s very helpful to have basic coding skills when designing websites, I learned that you don’t have to know how to develop a website to design one. In my web design class at school, we always had to build the websites we designed, which meant I was focusing less time on the design and more time figuring out how to code it. However, while interning at LeverageIT, I saw that the process of building a website can require different people with specific skills.
2. Try Different Software
While there isn’t one program that can accomplish everything, there’s usually one that is the best suited for your needs. Before interning at Leverage I had only stuck to Adobe Illustrator. Trying UXPin for the first time was amazing and forced me to get out of my comfort zone. It blew my mind that you could create an almost completely functional website prototype. You don’t realize what is possible until you explore all your options. Once you are aware of what’s out there, you can weigh out your options effectively. Also, getting out of my comfort zone with web design software encouraged me to try other design software and broaden my skill set.
3. It’s Important to Take Steps
When I would get a new project, I immediately wanted to jump into designing, but I learned that it’s crucial to really take your time in the beginning to process what the requirements are first. Pencil and paper is the most effective way of getting all your ideas down during the wire-framing stage of a project. By quickly being able to sketch different designs, you narrow down what works and what doesn’t. Even when I was ready to start designing digitally, I learned that it’s best to start out really basic without colors and specific fonts. One of the skills interning at LeverageIT taught me to work on is patience. Yes, you eventually have to call a project finished, but you want to take it as far as you can, which inevitably takes time.
4. Ask Questions
Asking questions and clarifying that you have all the information correct before starting a project can prevent unnecessary mistakes later on. I also learned that making mistakes is important as well and it’s part of how you learn. The best way to learn from your mistakes and move a design forward is to get feedback on it. Getting another, more knowledgeable perspective on a design shows you what might have missed and can prompt ideas that you may not have had otherwise. During my time interning at LeverageIT, I saw firsthand how valuable this process is for growth and improvement.
5. Everything is a Learning Opportunity
Not only did I learn so much from the projects I was given, but also from the conversations I had and the meetings I sat in on while interning at LeverageIT. I had never seen the inner workings of a business before and the different roles that are required to run a web design agency. I saw that communication, especially when working across different time zones, is key for everyone to be on the same page and for the process of building a website to run smoothly. I learned what working as part of a bigger team feels like and got to use Slack to communicate with coworkers in and out of the office. Getting to work on client projects was also an amazing learning experience because in school, I’m mostly able to design projects how I choose rather than taking into account another person’s preferences. Designing with a client in mind really forced me to think about what would work best for them rather than what I wanted.
Conclusion
Being able to work at LeverageIT in a creative environment this summer was everything I had hoped for and more. While school can teach you specific skillsets, it was great to be able to try new things that I wouldn’t have otherwise. Interning at LeverageIT, I was allowed to create posts for social media and learn how to navigate UXpin and WordPress. I got to meet new people who I learned a lot from and was able to experience firsthand working in an awesome and creative environment.
Written by Shira Sherman, Design Intern
If you’re looking to get started in web design or development, get in touch at leverage.it and we’ll talk about what opportunities we have.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is it like interning at LeverageIT?
Interning at LeverageIT offers a hands-on experience in web design and development. You’ll gain valuable skills, try out different design tools, and work on real-world projects alongside experienced professionals. It’s an environment focused on growth and creativity.
What did Shira learn from interning at LeverageIT?
Shira learned several key lessons while interning at LeverageIT, including the importance of collaboration, exploring new software, and taking time to plan before diving into design work. Interning at LeverageIT also helped her realize the significance of feedback and continuous learning.
Do you need to be a developer to intern at LeverageIT?
No, interning at LeverageIT doesn’t require you to be a developer. While basic coding knowledge can be helpful, the internship focuses on web design, and you’ll have the opportunity to work with a team of developers who handle the technical aspects.
How did interning at LeverageIT improve Shira’s design skills?
Interning at LeverageIT exposed Shira to new design software like UXPin, which allowed her to expand her skills beyond what she was familiar with in school. She also learned valuable skills like sketching wireframes, gathering client feedback, and refining designs based on real-world needs.
How can interning at LeverageIT help someone looking to break into web design?
Interning at LeverageIT provides hands-on experience, exposure to different design tools, and the chance to work on actual client projects. It’s a great opportunity for anyone looking to build their portfolio and learn the inner workings of a creative agency.
