Designing the future: Insights from this year's outgoing interns.
A year ago, we had the pleasure of welcoming four talented design interns to Peldon Rose. Over the past 12 months, Ella Dodd, Isla Grelak, Rukshana Begum, and Lota Njelita have not only immersed themselves in the world of design but also built strong relationships within our team and with our clients. Their fresh perspectives and creative ideas have been invaluable, contributing to some of our most exciting projects. As they prepare to embark on the next stage of their careers, we want to reflect on their journey and celebrate their achievements. Here's a look back at their remarkable year with us.
Ella and Isla, how has a year in industry prepared you for your final year at university?
Ella: Above all, the internship has made me more confident in myself. When you’re in a university hall, what you learn is so conceptual, so going out into the industry means you have to learn how things are made, how features are built and the process behind it. My experiences pitching to clients gave me confidence in my personal design style, too.
Isla: In so many ways! The main thing I’ve developed is my technological skills with software like Photoshop. Now having been in the thick of it, getting to know the process has helped me to understand the ‘why’ behind the design, and given me a perspective on design in general that I didn’t have before.
Rukshana, you’ve accepted a permanent role at Peldon Rose. What are you looking forward to in the next 12 months?
Rukshana: I’m looking forward to growing further into my role and gaining more knowledge. Every day I’m becoming more self-assured in my role as a Graduate Technical Designer and am taking on more of my own projects.
What project during your internship are you most proud of, and why?
E: I’m most proud of our work with one of our charity clients. It was the first project I was brought onto, and was an extra special project because it’s for people who do excellent work for a great cause. It was my first experience pitching and we won it. It was terrifying, but so rewarding!
I: We worked with a lifestyle retail client to create a future-forward workplace. I actively contributed to the design of the beauty bar and custom third floor. The project led to another opportunity in Leeds, and when a colleague left, I took over the meetings and was completely immersed, feeling like an integral part of the team. My opinions were valued, and I was empowered to make decisions due to my strong involvement in the project.
R: One of my first SME projects was an American insurance software firm, based out of California but with offices worldwide. I was lucky enough to be the lead designer for the first time. I was making the decisions and the team around me were asking me what to do! It was fast-paced, but I loved every moment.
Lota: My first project was Utility Warehouse - I saw the project through from submission to completion, and it was rewarding to see my contributions come to life in the physical space. The client put trust in me as the point of contact, and was so happy with the final result. I did a lot of learning on the job and it’s the project that helped build my confidence as a designer the most.
