My Fiasco Open Internship Experience

Why did you apply for the open internship with Fiasco?

Through my endless Instagram scrolling in the days after my university hand-in, I came across the Open Internship post. I’d known of Fiasco and followed the studio for some time. So I dropped them an email and shortly after got a reply asking for a chat…

The main thing that stood out front and centre was they were actively helping to push a more diverse workforce into the design industry. I admire them for celebrating diversity, as it better represents the world we live in and pushes creative thinking to its full potential.

Having no prior experience in the industry, I was open-minded, keen and ready to learn. What mattered most was that Fiasco have a fun, positive studio culture and a supportive attitude to work. Along with a talented tight-knit family team, came an expansive network of illustrators, photographers, animators, and more. Everyone working collaboratively to produce powerful, playful idea-led designs for a diverse sector of brands. I knew I wanted to be a part of it all. To surround myself with an inspiring team of creative minds and awesome people who want to create great work – but have fun too. 

What has the internship experience been like for you?

I’m a born and bred Brummie. I studied in Norwich and for this internship I relocated to Bristol. Which I have to say, has been an incredible experience. It’s such a cool city. It has a great vibe and is an absolute food-lovers paradise with all the independent restaurants. It’s been a memorable, fun and exciting time, exploring all the city has to offer.

Beginning my career at Fiasco Design has been a truly exciting start. They welcomed me with open arms and created a space to make me feel inspired. I have loved getting to know the day-to-day of a studio and working alongside some incredible designers. Fiasco is fast-paced but has removed the creative barriers and is more about trusting your instincts. Here, I find the creative freedom to create work with impact.

It was exciting to sit in on Fiasco’s ‘Last Friday of the Month’ lunch, where everybody has a chance to show and tell a project they’ve been working on. It’s a space to have your say and be heard, making me feel part of a studio that moved as one. At Fiasco, they have made time to be transparent by sharing studio news to promote inclusivity within the team. 

What key things have you learnt so far?

Having worked on numerous live projects, the exposure has offered a wealth of knowledge when transitioning from university to the real world. You don’t have to know everything by the time you graduate. But having the willingness to learn has meant I have further grown and strengthened my key skills. I’m a big believer in throwing myself into absolutely every opportunity and challenge. I have been able to try new things, meet new people and gain lots of knowledge, which is hugely valuable.

What more do you think could be done to improve diversity in the design industry?

We are heading in the right direction to creating a better future. I am hopeful that, much like the start of the pandemic, the industry will continue to unify against the problems facing us as a society. So I’m honoured to be part of this community and looking forward to seeing the changes to come.

Diversity should be a huge aspect of our work and who we work with. Creating change is about building diversity into the recruitment process and finding alternative ways of hiring. Studios and organisations must challenge the social norms; take more of an active stance on the issue; and reevaluate their processes, to create a more inclusive and equal world.

What advice would you give to other emerging creatives looking to apply for internships?

When contacting agencies it’s 60% determination, 20% portfolio and 20% luck. So dream big! Go for agencies that truly excite and inspire you. A huge lesson I learned when it came to landing my first design job was a newfound confidence in the power of networking.

Remember to be your authentic self, express passion for your work, and do the research. Sometimes you might need to give them a nudge and they might come back and say – unfortunately, it’s not the right time. So it’s best to ask for feedback on your portfolio instead.

But most people in the industry are genuinely nice and openly willing to help young creatives enter the industry. So remember that every email or conversation could lead you to the next opportunity.

What’s next for you?

I’ll continue to throw myself into the industry. As a designer, I have an insatiable passion for social and environmental issues. I’m motivated to create engaging innovative campaigns and crafted identities that communicate bold ideas. To challenge the status quo, motivate change, and deliver a real tangible impact on the world.

Our experience tells us that when people from different walks of life come together, creativity thrives. Diversity in design isn’t just about creating better work, but also a culture which represents the world we want to live in. We look forward to opening up applications to An Open Internship again soon. Watch this space…

Article originally published on Design By Women.