internship spotlight
Austin Baird
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Graduation Year
December 2015
Major
Advertising
Hometown
Catlin, IL
Campus Activities
The Daily Illini
Hobbies
Snacking, staying up way too late, going to the gym, memes, Doritos, and the Internet.
Employer
Tumblr
Internship Title
Product Design Intern
What were your duties?
Served as Tumblr’s very first product design intern. Designed full features for iOS, Android and the web. Created, designed and developed Tumblr’s first “living” style guide. Worked with a small team of designers and engineers to make the Internet more awesome.
What did you most enjoy about your internship?
I worked with some of the best designers and people I've ever met. I still consider them my friends. Every day was an adventure.
What was the most difficult aspect of the internship?
Navigating New York City. I'm from a small town in Illinois. It was a little difficult to adjust.
How did your experience at ILLINOIS and in the College of Media prepare you for your internship?
Illinois gave me a broad range of skills and insights that have helped me expand my skillset as a designer. Without the variety of College of Media classes I've taken, I wouldn't be where I am today.
How has your internship prepared you for a career?
I've learned what it's like to work with a real team of designers focused on making a product the best it can be.
What recommendations do you have for other students about doing an internship?
Apply for internships even if you think you're inexperienced or under qualified. Your skillset may surprise you. Also, always make them laugh during your interview process. They'll remember you for it.
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