Intern Insight: Isobel

We love to keep the Spark doors open—everyone’s welcome! That includes inviting fresh talent to join us as part of our internship Program.

In this blog, the wonderful Isobel, who’s recently joined the squad for our latest internship, lifts the lid on what it’s like to be a Spark. She shares her thoughts on the nurturing culture, the studio’s music tastes, and offers some wise words for others seeking an internship.

What made you approach Creative Spark for your placement?

I had some experience working in another studio, but I was looking for something a bit more close-knit with a mixture of different clients. Creative Spark has a large selection of clients and works on various types of client briefs. Whether it’s logo design, video editing, or rebranding, it would be a great opportunity to learn different skills as well as learn from a diverse group of designers

What did you learn about agency life during your time with Spark?

It’s busy and fun! It’s amazing how everyone works together. At university, you’re taught to be independent and work on your own, but here, there are different people with different specialties working together to support one client. It’s great to have catch ups, sharing ideas and inspiration with each other too. There are so many new techniques I have learned from these sessions!

Reflect on what you anticipated before starting the internship and how the reality matched or differed from those expectations. Did anything surprise you?

It’s everything and nothing like I thought it would be. Everyone is super supportive, and each day I’m learning new skills and collaborating with talented designers. Every day is super exciting, and having different client projects keeps you on your toes.

Can you give us a brief run through a day in your life at Spark?

My day always starts with a big coffee from the Northern Quarter. Then I head into the office, checking the production sheet to see what tasks I am on. I check in with others to make sure I am on the right track or if they need extra help with any of their work tasks for the day. There’s usually client work and a lot of collaborating and supporting the mid/senior designers. It’s great to see their work and how it evolves day by day into what is needed for client briefs.

What was the work environment like?

Everyone was super supportive from day one. I felt nervous coming into a new environment, but due to the team’s close-knit and friendly nature, I felt welcomed. There are so many aspects that made my time positive. 

The music was a big part of this; there’s always a good playlist on.

We have team meetings showcasing designs we have seen and discussing why we like different designs and strategies. It’s a great chance to catch up with everyone. Due to the layout of the office, collaborating is super easy, and everyone works as a team supporting each other.

What skills or knowledge did you gain that you found particularly valuable?

Keeping early stage ideas simple. It’s a more efficient use of time to build on a strong concept, once you’ve aligned with the team on the direction. I also learned how to use Figma for mood board collaborations, as well as expanding further with my motion graphic skills on After Effects.

Why did you choose a career in design?

I have always enjoyed design. Unlike art for art’s sake, design has always had a functionality, whether it’s form, advertising, or communication. Even the layout of typography and information has functionality through different fonts and sizing. There’s a team behind what you see, creating designs and thinking about the functionality of information. I also like the idea of working within a team that collaborates and designs for their clients’ needs. It’s exciting!

Finally, any words of wisdom for others seeking a design placement.

Be open to learning, 100%. It’s good to learn new things, especially if you have just finished university. You will learn how professionals with years of experience translate their skills into professional projects for clients. 

I would also say there’s no need to overcomplicate a design or concept. If it needs more work, it’s better to show something to build on than to strip back after spending time on it. 

Finally, just enjoy yourself 🙂

Big thanks for all of your hard work Isobel, you’re a star, and any studio would be lucky to have you! 

Want to become the next Spark Intern?

We’re always on the lookout for our next intern candidates, so if you’re looking for a career and want to try out agency life, read more here.