Internships are more than just resume builders—they’re real-world classrooms that shape confidence, sharpen skills, and bring academic learning to life. For Jared Carnesale, a Community-Centered Design major in the Department of Community Development and Applied Economics (CDAE) at the University of Vermont, an internship with UVM’s Strategic Communication office has done just that. From brainstorming with the Creative Director to seeing his sticker designs distributed across campus, this hands-on experience has offered not only professional growth but a clearer vision for a future in design. Jared’s journey illustrates how internships can empower students to translate classroom knowledge into creative impact—one project at a time.

Take a look at Jared’s answers to our questions as he reflects on his internship experience, the skills he’s gained, and his advice for fellow design students.

1. Could you provide an overview of your role as an intern in the Strategic Communication office? What key projects or tasks have you been involved with so far?

As a Student Graphic Designer, I am involved in a wide variety of design projects that are used across the university. I meet with the Creative Director, Cody Silfies, each week to discuss upcoming projects, brainstorm and workshop design ideas, and get feedback on design concepts. I work remotely throughout the rest of the week to complete my assigned tasks using the Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop), making sure I adhere to the university’s branding guidelines for colors, logos, and typography. Some projects I have worked on this year include stickers for admitted students, social media assets for incoming students, and templates for UVM event posters and postcards.

2. How has your Community-Centered Design major, with a concentration in Applied Design, prepared you for this internship? Are there any specific skills or lessons you’ve found particularly valuable?

Many of the Applied Design courses help establish a foundation of design principles that I regularly use in this internship. Courses like Visual Communication (CDAE 1150) taught me how to use visual hierarchy, create successful compositions, and fine-tune typography. Communication Design I (CDAE 1160), which I am taking this semester, is teaching me how to more efficiently utilize the tools in Adobe Illustrator.

3. What has been the most rewarding aspect of your internship experience, and how do you envision this opportunity influencing your career goals within the field of strategic communication and design?

The most rewarding part of the internship has been seeing my designs come to life. Getting to hold the sticker sheet I designed after it had been printed was extremely exciting and gratifying. I will be thrilled when I see my stickers on water bottles, laptops, and bike helmets around campus next year. This internship allows me to build my graphic design skillset in an environment that encourages learning. I have been able to start building a professional portfolio of work that will help show off my skills to future employers after graduation.

4. What advice would you offer to other students in the CCD program who are considering internships or careers in strategic communication or design?

I would tell other students that they should not expect perfection from themselves, especially not on their first try. Most of the projects I work on go through multiple rounds of revisions before they are finalized. Sometimes revisions are focused on small details, and other times I need to completely rethink my approach to the project. When working in the design field, it always takes time and input from others to find the answers to your design problems. Be open to critiques from supervisors and peers because growth comes from refining your work. You should approach each project as a process and embrace the mistakes you make along the way because that is what will help you develop your skillset the most.