My name is Sol Moon, and I am a Senior Graphic Design Major with a Book Arts Concentration.
Over the Spring of 2013, I interned at the Maryland Department of Planning (MDP) under the
Communications unit. I found the internship on MICAnetwork, and submitted my
resume, cover letter, and a PDF portfolio samples to the HR person listed in the job posting.
I had an on-site interview with the Personnel Director, the Public Information Officer, and the
graphic designer, and I received an email shortly after the interview saying that I was hired for
the internship position.
MDP provides guidance, analysis, outreach and support to ensure that all of the State’s natural
resources, built environment and public assets are preserved and protected as smart and
sustainable growth goals are attained. I was the first graphic design intern from MICA, and I
mainly worked with the Public Information Officer and a full-time graphic designer who
graduated from MICA in the 70s. As a design intern, I worked on various projects such as
infographic, publications, banners, logo, and advertisement. It was very important to understand
the clients (public, local government, and internal staff), and communicate with staff members
from various working units. I had lots of freedom in the decision making and the design process.
Throughout my internship, I not only created a few portfolio pieces, but also learned a lot about time management and communication skills. Staff members treated me as a valuable team member and they were always eager to help. Being in a working environment where I felt welcomed and needed encouraged me to create better work. This internship was a great opportunity for me to practice my design skills on real projects, and definitely helped me improve communicating with various clients more effectively. Overall, I became more confident about problem-solving, communication, and design skills.
