Interview Questions for Graphic Design Internship: Master “Tell Me About Yourself” Now

interview questions for graphic design internship – The video call connected, and I saw three faces staring back at me from my laptop screen: the creative director, a senior designer, and the HR manager. “Thanks for joining us today,” the creative director said warmly. “We’re excited to learn more about your work. Why don’t we start with you telling us about yourself?”

My mind went completely blank. I had prepared extensively—practiced my portfolio presentation dozens of times, researched the company thoroughly, memorized my design work inside and out—but somehow I hadn’t prepared for the most basic, predictable interview question of all time. I stammered through an awkward response that rambled through my entire life story, mentioned my high school art classes for some reason, and took nearly three minutes before trailing off without actually explaining why I wanted this specific internship.

The interview went downhill from there. When asked “How do you handle criticism?” I gave a generic answer about being “open to feedback” without any specific examples. When they inquired about my design process, I described how I made one specific project without explaining my general approach. When given the opportunity to ask questions, I blanked again and asked something I could have easily found on their website. I walked away from that interview knowing I’d blown a great opportunity simply because I hadn’t prepared for the conversation beyond practicing my portfolio presentation.

That painful experience taught me that landing a graphic design internship requires more than just strong design work—you need to articulate your thinking, demonstrate self-awareness, show genuine interest in the company, and present yourself as someone who would thrive in professional environments. This comprehensive guide, part of our complete resource on graphic design internships, prepares you for every question you’re likely to encounter, with strategies for answering effectively and examples that demonstrate the approach successful candidates use.

Types of Interview Questions

Understanding the categories of questions helps you prepare comprehensively rather than trying to memorize specific responses.

General Background Questions

These questions assess your overall background, motivation, and fit for the role. They’re often used early in interviews to help you relax and provide context about yourself. While they seem simple, your answers significantly impact first impressions.

Technical Questions

These questions probe your design knowledge, software proficiency, and understanding of design principles. Interviewers want to confirm you possess the technical foundation necessary for the internship.

Portfolio-Based Questions

The heart of most design interviews, these questions dig into your work—why you made specific decisions, how you approached challenges, what you learned from projects, and how you handle feedback and iteration.

Behavioral Questions

Drawing from past experiences, behavioral questions assess soft skills like collaboration, problem-solving, time management, and how you handle workplace challenges. The premise is that past behavior predicts future performance.

Company-Specific Questions

These questions test whether you’ve researched the company and understand their work, values, and culture. They separate candidates who genuinely want this specific opportunity from those mass-applying everywhere.

50+ Common Interview Questions & Answers

Let’s walk through the most frequently asked questions with strategies and example responses. Adapt these to your own experiences—don’t memorize scripts, but understand the approach.

Section 1: General Background Questions

1. “Tell me about yourself.”

This classic opener isn’t asking for your entire life story. Provide a 60-90 second professional overview touching on your education, what drew you to design, relevant experience, and why you’re excited about this internship.

Example Answer: “I’m a junior at Parsons studying graphic design with a focus on brand identity. I’ve always been drawn to how visual systems communicate ideas and create connections—that’s what initially led me from fine arts into design. Over the past year, I’ve done freelance branding work for three small businesses, which taught me how to balance client needs with creative vision. I’m particularly interested in your internship because of your work with sustainable brands—I’ve been following your rebrand of EcoThread and admire how you merged environmental messaging with sophisticated design. I’m hoping to learn how established agencies approach strategic branding at scale.”

Why this works: It’s concise, follows a logical flow (education → interest → experience → why this company), demonstrates research, and ends by connecting to the specific opportunity.

2. “Why do you want to work in graphic design?”

Share what genuinely excites you about design as a discipline. Avoid clichés like “I’ve always been creative” and instead discuss specific aspects that fascinate you.

Example Answer: “What draws me to design is the intersection of problem-solving and aesthetics. I love that we’re not just making things look beautiful—we’re using visual language to communicate ideas, guide behavior, and create experiences. When a branding system really works, it shapes how people perceive and interact with a company in ways they may not consciously recognize. That combination of strategy, psychology, and craft is endlessly interesting to me.”

3. “Why do you want this internship specifically?”

This question tests whether you’ve done your research and have genuine interest in this particular company versus just needing any internship. Reference specific work they’ve done, aspects of their approach you admire, or values that resonate with you.

Example Answer: “I’ve been following your studio’s work for over a year, particularly your approach to motion branding. Your work for Horizon Music Festival showed how animation can be integral to brand identity rather than just an add-on. Since I’ve been developing my motion graphics skills and want to understand how to integrate movement into comprehensive brand systems, learning from your team would be invaluable. I’m also drawn to your collaborative studio culture—the case studies on your site showing your process with clients and team members suggests an environment where I could learn while contributing.”

4. “What are your strengths?”

Choose 2-3 strengths relevant to design internships, providing brief examples that prove you possess them.

Example Answer: “I’d say my greatest strengths are conceptual thinking and incorporating feedback constructively. In projects, I spend significant time upfront understanding the problem before jumping to solutions—for my packaging redesign project, I researched competitors and conducted user interviews before sketching any concepts, which led to insights that shaped the entire direction. Regarding feedback, I’ve learned to separate ego from work and see critique as an opportunity to improve. In my branding class, my professor pushed back hard on my initial concepts, and working through multiple rounds of iteration resulted in work I’m much prouder of.”

5. “What areas do you want to improve?”

Be honest about genuine areas for growth while showing self-awareness and commitment to development. Avoid fake weaknesses like “I’m too much of a perfectionist” or critical flaws like “I struggle meeting deadlines.”

Example Answer: “I want to develop stronger systematic thinking in my design work. I can create individual strong pieces, but I’m still learning how to build comprehensive systems where elements work together cohesively across touchpoints. That’s actually part of why I’m drawn to this internship—seeing how your team approaches brand systems from initial strategy through implementation across various applications would help me develop that skill.”

6. “Where do you see yourself in five years?”

They’re not expecting a detailed life plan—they want to understand your career aspirations and whether this internship aligns with your goals. Show ambition while being realistic.

Example Answer: “In five years, I hope to be working as a mid-level designer at an agency or in-house team, contributing to brand strategy discussions and mentoring junior designers. More specifically, I want to be known for smart, strategic design thinking—not just making things look good, but understanding business goals and using design to achieve them. I see internships like this as crucial first steps in developing that strategic mindset by learning from experienced designers and seeing how design decisions connect to larger objectives.”

7. “What do you know about our company?”

Demonstrate you’ve done your research. Mention recent projects, their approach or philosophy, clients they work with, or aspects of their culture that appeal to you.

Example Answer: “You’re a 30-person branding agency that’s built a reputation for working with purpose-driven companies in sustainability, health, and social impact sectors. I’ve been impressed by several of your recent projects—the Clearwater Foundation rebrand beautifully balanced accessibility with sophistication, and your work with GreenPath showed how flexible brand systems can work across very different applications. From your blog and case studies, it’s clear your process is highly collaborative and research-driven, starting with brand strategy before moving to visual development. I also noticed you’re a certified B Corp, which aligns with my interest in using design for positive impact.”

8. “Why should we hire you?”

Connect your specific strengths, experience, and interests to what they need. This isn’t about being the most talented designer—it’s about being the right fit.

Example Answer: “I think I’d be a strong fit for three reasons. First, my background in both traditional brand design and digital applications aligns well with your integrated approach—I’m comfortable designing logos and print collateral but also understand how brands need to work in digital environments. Second, my freelance experience has taught me how to work with real clients, handle feedback professionally, and deliver under deadlines—skills I could bring immediately. Finally, I’m genuinely excited about the kind of work you do. Your focus on sustainable and social impact brands isn’t just professional interest for me—these are issues I care about personally, which means I’d bring authentic enthusiasm to projects.”

9. “What motivates you?”

Be genuine. What actually drives you to do good work? Is it solving problems? Creating beautiful things? Collaboration? Learning? Making impact?

Example Answer: “I’m most motivated by seeing my work make a real difference. When I designed promotional materials for a local nonprofit’s fundraiser and they exceeded their donation goals, knowing my work contributed to that outcome was incredibly rewarding—more so than any grade I’ve received. I also find collaboration energizing. My best work comes from bouncing ideas off others and iterating based on different perspectives.”

10. “Do you prefer working independently or on a team?”

The honest answer for design work is “both”—you need focused independent time for execution and collaborative time for ideation and feedback. Explain this balance.

Example Answer: “I’ve learned I need both. I value focused independent time for deep work—executing design concepts, refining typography, working through layout iterations. But I also really value collaboration, especially during concept development and feedback stages. Some of my strongest ideas have come from brainstorming sessions where teammates built on my initial thoughts in ways I wouldn’t have arrived at alone. The best design processes, in my experience, balance independent execution with collaborative thinking.”

Section 2: Technical Skills Questions

11. “What design software are you proficient in?”

Be honest about your skill levels. List software you actually use regularly, not everything you’ve ever touched.

Example Answer: “I use Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign daily and feel very comfortable with all three—I can execute most projects efficiently without constantly referencing tutorials. I’m also proficient in Figma, which I use for most digital and UI work. I have working knowledge of After Effects for simple animations and am currently developing that skill further. I’m familiar with XD and Sketch but use them less frequently.”

For complete breakdowns of skills companies prioritize, see our guide on skills needed for graphic design internships.

12. “Can you explain your design process?”

Walk through how you typically approach projects, from brief to final delivery. Show systematic thinking.

Example Answer: “I usually start by thoroughly understanding the problem—reading the brief carefully, asking clarifying questions, and researching context like competitors and target audiences. Then I gather inspiration broadly, not copying but understanding what’s been done and what opportunities exist. I sketch initial concepts quickly, exploring multiple directions before committing to one. Once I have a direction, I move to digital execution, creating multiple variations. Throughout, I seek feedback early and often—I’d rather course-correct during the process than after investing too much in the wrong direction. Finally, I refine based on feedback and ensure all deliverables are production-ready with appropriate file formats.”

13. “How do you approach typography in your work?”

Demonstrate understanding that typography is strategic, not just aesthetic choice.

Example Answer: “I think about typography as a hierarchy and communication tool first, aesthetic choice second. I start by understanding what information needs emphasis and how readers will interact with the content—then select typefaces and establish hierarchy that serves those needs. I consider practical factors like medium and audience—a poster needs different typography than a website or annual report. In terms of selection, I look for typefaces that support the project’s tone while ensuring readability. I’m careful about pairing—usually limiting myself to two typefaces maximum with varied weights, and ensuring they have visual harmony.”

14. “How do you choose color palettes?”

Show strategic thinking about color, not just intuition.

Example Answer: “Color choices should support the project’s goals and context. I start by understanding audience associations and cultural considerations—colors mean different things to different groups. I look at competitors to ensure differentiation. I consider practical constraints like printing or digital-only applications. For brand work, I think about what emotions or qualities colors evoke and whether they align with brand positioning. I also always test for accessibility, ensuring sufficient contrast for readability, especially for digital work where WCAG standards apply.”

15. “What’s your experience with print production?”

Be honest about your experience level while showing understanding of print considerations.

Example Answer: “I’ve designed several projects for print—posters, business cards, and a magazine spread—but I haven’t been involved in press checks or production oversight. I understand the basics of preparing files for print: using CMYK color space, setting up bleeds and trim marks, ensuring sufficient resolution, and providing appropriate file formats. I know enough to have intelligent conversations with printers about technical requirements, but I’m definitely still learning the nuances of production and would love to develop that knowledge further.”

16. “Are you familiar with UX/UI design principles?”

Even if not specializing in UX/UI, show awareness of user-centered thinking.

Example Answer: “While I’m not a UX specialist, I’ve learned core principles through coursework and personal projects. I understand the importance of user research, creating intuitive navigation hierarchies, ensuring accessibility, testing with real users, and iterating based on feedback. I’ve designed a mobile app concept where I created user flows, wireframes, and high-fidelity mockups in Figma. I’m comfortable with basic prototyping but would love to deepen my understanding of user testing methodologies and interaction design patterns.”

17. “How do you stay current with design trends?”

Show you’re engaged with the design community and continually learning.

Example Answer: “I follow several design publications and platforms regularly—I check Behance and Dribbble weekly for inspiration, read Design Week and It’s Nice That for industry news, and follow individual designers whose work I admire on Instagram. I listen to design podcasts during my commute—99% Invisible and The Design Better Podcast are favorites. I also attend local AIGA events when possible, which helps me connect with other designers and hear about what’s happening in the local design scene. Staying engaged with what’s current helps me understand evolving aesthetics while also recognizing what’s timeless.”

18. “What design tools or software would you like to learn?”

Show interest in growth and awareness of industry tools.

Example Answer: “I’d love to develop stronger After Effects skills—I can do basic motion graphics but want to understand animation principles more deeply and create more sophisticated animations. I’m also interested in learning more about design systems and tools like Figma’s advanced prototyping features. Longer term, understanding basic HTML/CSS would help me design more effectively for web, even if I’m not coding production sites myself.”

Section 3: Portfolio Discussion Questions

19. “Walk me through your portfolio.”

Practice this presentation thoroughly. For each project (5-6 pieces, 15-20 minutes total), use this structure:

Approach: “I’ll walk through five projects that show range in my work. [First project]: This was a brand identity for a fictional sustainable apparel company. The challenge was communicating environmental responsibility without the typical earthy aesthetic that saturates sustainable fashion branding…”

[Continue with: challenge, process, solution, outcome, what you learned]

For comprehensive portfolio guidance, see our resource on portfolio for graphic design internships.

20. “Which project are you most proud of and why?”

Choose a project that shows strong conceptual thinking or significant growth.

Example Answer: “I’m most proud of my redesign of the local library’s wayfinding system. It wasn’t the most visually flashy project, but it solved a real problem—patrons, especially older adults, struggled navigating the building. I conducted observations and informal interviews to understand pain points, tested multiple signage approaches, and created a system that prioritized clarity over aesthetic complexity. Post-implementation, the library reported significantly fewer navigation questions. I’m proud because it reminded me that effective design isn’t about impressing other designers—it’s about serving users.”

21. “What would you do differently on this project if you had more time?”

Show critical thinking about your own work and awareness of areas for improvement.

Example Answer: “Looking back at my music festival branding, I wish I’d spent more time on the typographic system. I was so focused on the illustrative elements that the typography feels a bit underdev

eloped. With more time, I’d explore custom or modified letterforms that better integrated with the visual style. I’d also test the brand across more applications—I focused heavily on print but didn’t fully think through how it would work in motion or digital environments.”

22. “How did you arrive at this particular solution?”

Walk through your thinking and exploration process.

Example Answer: “For the Brew Haven coffee brand, I started by researching the local coffee market and found it saturated with rustic, hand-drawn aesthetics. I interviewed the client about their positioning—they wanted to feel premium but approachable, modern but warm. I explored three distinct directions: one geometric and minimal, one organic and hand-crafted, and one that balanced both. After presenting concepts, we refined the balanced approach because it felt fresh in the local market while still conveying craft. The geometric grid-based logomark paired with warmer color palette and softer typography struck that balance.”

23. “Tell me about a project that didn’t go well.”

Be honest about challenges but focus on what you learned.

Example Answer: “In my Editorial Design class, I designed a magazine spread that I thought was beautiful but completely failed functionally. I prioritized aesthetic over readability—body text was too small, hierarchy was unclear, and experimental layout made it difficult to follow article flow. My professor gave harsh but fair feedback that the design served my ego more than readers. It was a humbling moment that taught me to always put user needs first and test designs with actual readers before finalizing them.”

24. “How do you incorporate feedback into your work?”

Show you’re coachable and can iterate based on direction.

Example Answer: “I’ve learned to see feedback as an opportunity rather than criticism. In my branding project for a wellness startup, the client initially rejected my concepts because they felt too clinical—they wanted warmth and accessibility I hadn’t conveyed. Rather than getting defensive, I asked questions to understand their vision better, explored new directions incorporating their feedback, and presented revised concepts that ultimately excited them. The final work was stronger because of that feedback loop. I try to remember that feedback isn’t about my personal worth as a designer—it’s about making the work better serve its purpose.”

25. “Can you explain this specific design decision?”

Be prepared to discuss every choice in your portfolio—colors, typefaces, composition, etc.

Example when asked about typeface choice: “I chose Freight Text for the body copy because the project needed a serif that felt authoritative but approachable. Freight has slightly softer terminals than more formal book serifs, which created the warm professionalism we wanted. For headlines, I paired it with Futura for contrast—the geometric sans-serif provided visual distinction while the classic letterforms maintained sophistication rather than feeling trendy.”

26. “How much of this was your work versus collaboration?”

Be honest about your role in collaborative projects. Taking credit for others’ work will be discovered.

Example Answer: “This was a group project where I led the visual identity development. My teammate handled user research and strategy, and I translated their findings into visual concepts. I created the initial logomark and typography system, and we collaborated on color palette selection. The application to digital mockups was split—I designed the website layouts and she created the app screens. Throughout, we critiqued each other’s work and made decisions together, but the core visual identity was my contribution.”

27. “What design principles did you apply in this project?”

Demonstrate understanding of fundamental design principles.

Example Answer: “This poster heavily employs hierarchy and contrast. The event name is the largest element and positioned in the upper third where eyes naturally land first. The geometric shapes create visual interest and guide attention from headline to essential information—date, time, location. I used scale contrast between large display typography and smaller body text to establish clear information priority. The limited color palette—just two colors plus black and white—creates unity while the varied sizes and weights create visual dynamism.”

28. “How did you test or validate this design?”

Show you think about effectiveness, not just aesthetics.

Example Answer: “For the app redesign, I conducted informal usability testing with five people matching the target demographic. I gave them specific tasks—’Find upcoming events in your city’ or ‘Purchase tickets for this concert’—and watched how they navigated the interface. This revealed that my navigation wasn’t as intuitive as I thought—multiple users struggled finding the search function because I’d made it too subtle. Based on that feedback, I made the search more prominent and retested, which showed significant improvement in task completion.”

Section 4: Behavioral Questions

29. “Tell me about a time you worked on a team.”

Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result.

Example Answer: “In my Design Studio class, we had a four-person team creating a brand identity for a local nonprofit. Initially, we struggled because everyone had different visions and we weren’t listening to each other. I suggested we each present our concepts but use a structured critique method where we identified what each approach did well before suggesting improvements. This created more productive conversation. We ended up combining elements from multiple concepts into a cohesive solution everyone felt ownership over. The final work was stronger than any individual concept and taught me that good collaboration requires process, not just talent.”

30. “Describe a situation where you had to meet a tight deadline.”

Show you can handle pressure and manage time effectively.

Example Answer: “For my freelance client, I had to design and deliver 15 social media graphics in three days because their original designer fell through. I immediately blocked out my schedule, created a templated system so I wasn’t redesigning everything from scratch, prioritized the most important pieces first, and communicated clearly with the client about the timeline. I delivered everything on schedule by working efficiently and staying focused. While intense, it taught me that having systems and clear prioritization helps me produce quality work even under tight deadlines.”

31. “Tell me about a time you disagreed with someone about a design decision.”

Show you can advocate for design choices while remaining professional.

Example Answer: “In a group project, my teammate wanted to use a decorative script font for body text that I felt was illegible at small sizes. Rather than just saying it looked bad, I printed samples at actual size and showed readability issues. I proposed we use the script font for headlines where it would be larger and more impactful, and choose a more readable font for body text. Approaching it with evidence rather than opinion helped us reach a solution that served the design while maintaining relationships.”

32. “How do you handle stress?”

Be honest but show you have coping strategies.

Example Answer: “I handle stress best when I’m organized and proactive. When I’m overwhelmed, I break projects into smaller tasks and prioritize ruthlessly—what absolutely must be done versus what can wait. I also build in breaks to avoid burnout. During finals last semester when I had three major projects due the same week, I created a detailed schedule, worked in focused sprints with breaks between, and made sure to still sleep and eat properly. Taking care of basics—sleep, food, exercise—actually helps me work more efficiently when stressed rather than powering through exhausted.”

33. “Describe a mistake you made and how you handled it.”

Show accountability and learning.

Example Answer: “I once sent a client a PDF with a significant typo in the headline—I’d been so focused on the design that I didn’t carefully proofread the text. The client caught it before printing, thankfully, but I was mortified. I apologized immediately, corrected the error within an hour, and implemented a new personal workflow where I step away from projects for a day before final review—fresh eyes catch more errors. I also started having someone else proofread important deliverables. The experience taught me that attention to detail matters as much as design quality.”

34. “Tell me about a time you had to learn something new quickly.”

Show adaptability and self-directed learning.

Example Answer: “When I took on a freelance project creating animated Instagram stories, I realized my After Effects skills weren’t sufficient. I had one week before the deadline. I found focused tutorials on the specific techniques I needed, practiced for several hours daily, and reached out to a friend who knew animation for troubleshooting help. I delivered the project on time, and while the work wasn’t as sophisticated as an experienced animator would create, it met the client’s needs and taught me that I can rapidly develop skills when motivated by real projects with deadlines.”

35. “How do you prioritize when you have multiple projects?”

Show organizational skills and strategic thinking.

Example Answer: “I assess each project’s deadline, complexity, and relative importance. I usually tackle the most urgent or highest-stakes project first while the others are in earlier stages. I also try to batch similar tasks—if I need to review feedback on multiple projects, I do that in one session rather than constantly switching contexts. I use project management tools to track everything and set internal deadlines before actual due dates to build in buffer time. Communication is crucial too—if I’m genuinely overloaded, I’d rather have an honest conversation about timelines than deliver poor work or miss deadlines.”

Section 5: Company and Role-Specific Questions

36. “What interests you about this internship specifically?”

Reference specific aspects of the role or company.

Example Answer: “Three things particularly excite me about this internship. First, your focus on early-stage startups means I’d see how design helps shape brand positioning from the ground up, not just refining established identities. Second, the mentorship structure where interns work closely with senior designers throughout projects—that apprenticeship model is exactly how I learn best. Third, your blog posts about collaborative design processes showed that you value systematic thinking and strategic approach to branding, which aligns with how I want to develop as a designer.”

37. “What can you contribute to our team?”

Connect your specific skills to their needs.

Example Answer: “Based on your current work and the internship description, I think I could contribute in several ways. My strong typography skills could help with layout-heavy projects. My experience with both print and digital design means I could support integrated campaigns. And honestly, my enthusiasm and willingness to take on various tasks—whether that’s designing or more production-oriented work—means I’d be helpful wherever your team needs support. I also bring a student perspective that might be valuable if you’re working with youth-focused or educational clients.”

38. “What questions do you have for us?”

Always prepare thoughtful questions. Never say “No questions” or ask things easily found on their website.

Good questions to ask:

• “What does a typical day or week look like for interns on your team?”
• “What types of projects would I potentially work on?”
• “How does your team typically approach the discovery and strategy phase of projects?”
• “What makes someone successful in this internship?”
• “What have past interns gone on to do after their time here?”
• “How do you balance creative exploration with client expectations and business goals?”
• “What’s the team dynamic like? How do you collaborate on projects?”
• “What opportunities would I have for mentorship and feedback?”

39. “How does this internship fit into your career goals?”

Show this is a strategic step, not just any opportunity.

Example Answer: “Long-term, I want to work as a brand designer at an agency or consultancy where I can help companies develop meaningful visual identities. This internship is perfectly aligned with that goal—I’d learn your brand development process, see how you manage client relationships, and understand how design decisions connect to broader business strategy. I also value the structured mentorship you provide, which would accelerate my development faster than trying to figure everything out independently. The skills and experience I’d gain here would directly prepare me for junior designer roles after graduation.”

40. “What do you think about our recent project [X]?”

They’re testing whether you’ve researched their work. Discuss a specific project honestly but constructively.

Example Answer: “I really admired your rebrand of Sustainable Harvest. The way you evolved their existing logo rather than starting completely fresh showed respect for brand equity they’d built while modernizing the identity. The expanded color palette gave them more flexibility across applications without feeling random—each color had clear usage guidelines. I was particularly impressed by how you documented the system in the brand guidelines you shared—it’s so clear that different teams could apply the identity consistently. If anything, I’d be curious whether you explored more illustrative brand elements, but I understand that might not have aligned with the brand strategy.”

Additional Challenging Questions

41. “What’s your design philosophy?”

Articulate your point of view about design’s purpose and how you approach it.

Example Answer: “I believe great design solves problems and serves people. It’s not about personal expression or impressing other designers—it’s about understanding what needs to be communicated and finding the most effective, appropriate way to do that. Form should follow function, but that doesn’t mean design can’t be beautiful. The best work is both useful and aesthetically compelling because beauty and functionality aren’t opposites—good aesthetics enhance usability by creating clear hierarchy and pleasant experiences.”

42. “Who are your design inspirations?”

Name specific designers and explain why their work resonates with you.

Example Answer: “I’m really inspired by Paula Scher’s approach to typography and how she makes type itself do so much conceptual work. Her Public Theater identity showed me that typography can be the entire concept, not just a component. I also admire Jessica Walsh for her bold, unapologetic use of color and composition—she takes risks that work because they’re grounded in strong concepts. More recently, I’ve been following Non-Format for their dimensional approach to brand identity and how they think about brands in space and motion, not just flat applications.”

43. “How do you handle creative blocks?”

Show you have strategies for pushing through difficult creative moments.

Example Answer: “When I’m stuck, I’ve learned that continuing to stare at the screen rarely helps. I usually step away and do something completely different—go for a walk, work on a different project, or look at design work in completely unrelated fields for fresh perspective. Sometimes I’ll sketch manually instead of working digitally, which uses my brain differently. I also find that setting constraints helps—if I’m overwhelmed by unlimited possibilities, giving myself specific limitations (like ‘design using only two colors’ or ‘solve this with typography only’) focuses my thinking. Finally, talking through the problem with someone else often helps me see approaches I’d missed.”

44. “What’s the last design book or article you read?”

Show you’re intellectually engaged with design beyond just doing it.

Example Answer: “I recently read ‘The Shape of Design’ by Frank Chimero, which was recommended by a professor. His ideas about how design is ultimately about improving life—not just making objects—really resonated with me. He talks about design as a craft but also as a form of care, which helped me think about my work’s purpose beyond just solving briefs. I’ve also been reading Eye on Design magazine regularly, which helps me stay current with what’s happening in the design community globally.”

45. “How would you describe your design style?”

This is tricky because your style should be flexible based on projects. Talk about your approach and sensibilities.

Example Answer: “I wouldn’t say I have one signature style—I think good designers adapt their approach based on project needs rather than imposing a personal aesthetic on everything. That said, I tend toward clean, systematic work with strong typography and thoughtful hierarchy. I appreciate work that feels considered and intentional rather than chaotic. I’m drawn to modernist design principles but try to avoid work feeling cold or overly minimal. I want my designs to have clarity and purpose while still feeling human and engaging.”

46. “What’s your biggest failure?”

Be honest but frame it as a learning experience.

Example Answer: “My biggest failure was probably my sophomore year portfolio review where I presented work I thought was strong but received very critical feedback. Multiple professors said my work looked derivative and lacked personal voice—I was too focused on imitating designers I admired rather than developing my own perspective. It was devastating in the moment, but it forced me to dig deeper and understand what I actually wanted to say through my work. The next semester, I created much more authentic, conceptual work that felt like mine. That failure taught me that trying to be someone else will always result in mediocre work—I needed to find my own voice.”

47. “How do you balance aesthetics with functionality?”

Show you understand design serves purposes beyond beauty.

Example Answer: “I think the best design achieves both—aesthetics and functionality aren’t opposites that require compromise. Thoughtful typography enhances readability while being beautiful. Clear hierarchy makes information accessible while creating visual interest. Strong color choices guide attention while being attractive. When there’s tension, I prioritize function—a gorgeous design that doesn’t communicate effectively has failed. But I’ve found that when I really understand the functional requirements and design intentionally to meet them, the aesthetics usually emerge naturally from those constraints.”

48. “Tell me about your experience working with clients.”

If you have client experience, share it. If not, be honest but show understanding of client relationships.

Example Answer (with experience): “Through freelance work, I’ve learned that managing client relationships is as important as design skills. I start every project with thorough discovery—asking lots of questions to understand not just what they want visually but why they need it and what success looks like. I present work by explaining my thinking rather than just showing pretty pictures. I’ve learned to guide clients toward good decisions while respecting that it’s their business and their brand. When clients request changes I disagree with, I express my professional opinion with reasoning, but ultimately defer to their judgment—they’re paying for both my expertise and their vision.”

49. “What would you do if a client hated your work?”

Show professionalism and problem-solving.

Example Answer: “First, I’d listen carefully to understand specifically what isn’t working—often ‘I hate it’ actually means ‘this doesn’t solve my problem’ or ‘this doesn’t match my expectations.’ I’d ask questions to diagnose the disconnect. Then I’d determine whether we need minor adjustments or new directions. If they hate the aesthetic but the strategy is sound, I’d explore different visual approaches using the same strategic foundation. If they hate the concept entirely, I’d revisit the brief to ensure we’re aligned on objectives. Throughout, I’d remain professional and focus on solving their problem rather than defending my ego. The goal is their satisfaction and project success, not proving I’m right.”

50. “Why should we hire you over other candidates?”

Highlight unique combinations of skills, experiences, or qualities you bring.

Example Answer: “While I can’t speak to other candidates, I can tell you what I’d bring to this internship. You’d get someone who takes design seriously both creatively and strategically—I care about making work beautiful but also ensuring it achieves business objectives. You’d get reliability—I meet deadlines, communicate proactively, and follow through on commitments. You’d get genuine enthusiasm—I’m not just looking for any internship; I specifically want to learn from your team because your approach to branding aligns with how I want to develop. And you’d get someone coachable who sees this as a learning opportunity, not just a resume bullet point. I’d work hard, ask good questions, and contribute positively to your team culture.”

Portfolio Presentation Tips

Your portfolio presentation is the centerpiece of most design interviews. Practice until it feels natural.

Structure Your Presentation

For each project (typically 5-6 projects, 15-20 minutes total):

1. Context (20 seconds): What was the project and who was it for?
2. Challenge (15 seconds): What problem needed solving?
3. Process (30 seconds): How did you approach it? What exploration happened?
4. Solution (30 seconds): What did you create and why? Key design decisions?
5. Outcome (15 seconds): Results and what you learned?

Practice timing yourself. You should be able to present 5-6 projects in 15-20 minutes, allowing time for questions.

Be Ready to Go Deeper

Interviewers will ask follow-up questions about your work. Be prepared to discuss:

• Why specific colors, typefaces, or compositional choices
• How you arrived at final solutions (your thinking process)
• What feedback you received and how you incorporated it
• What you’d do differently with more time
• How you measured success or effectiveness
• What you learned from each project

Practice having these deeper discussions about your work, not just memorizing surface-level presentations.

Show, Don’t Just Tell

Instead of saying “I made this logo,” explain your thinking: “I developed this logomark using geometric shapes because the brand positioning emphasized precision and innovation. The interlocking elements represent collaboration, which was central to the company’s values.”

For comprehensive portfolio guidance, see our resource on portfolio for graphic design internships.

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

Always prepare thoughtful questions. This shows interest, intelligence, and that you’re evaluating fit as much as they are.

Great questions to ask:

About the role:

• “What would a typical day or week look like for an intern on your team?”
• “What types of projects would I potentially work on?”
• “How much independence would I have versus working under close supervision?”
• “What’s the balance between doing design work versus production work?”

About learning and growth:

• “What opportunities would I have for mentorship and feedback?”
• “How do you help interns develop their skills during the program?”
• “What have past interns cited as their biggest learning experiences?”
• “Are there design critiques or reviews where interns participate?”

About the team and culture:

• “How does your team typically collaborate on projects?”
• “What’s the team dynamic like?”
• “How do you balance creative exploration with client expectations?”
• “What makes someone successful in this environment?”

About next steps:

• “What’s your timeline for making decisions?”
• “What are the next steps in the process?”
• “Is there anything about my background or experience you’d like me to clarify?”

Avoid asking:

• Questions easily answered by their website
• Only about perks, compensation, or time off
• “Did I get the job?” (too direct and premature)

Interview Preparation Checklist

One Week Before:

• ☐ Research company thoroughly (recent work, values, team, news)
• ☐ Practice portfolio presentation out loud
• ☐ Prepare answers to common questions
• ☐ Prepare thoughtful questions to ask them
• ☐ Test your portfolio link works and site loads quickly
• ☐ Review your resume and be ready to discuss everything on it

One Day Before:

• ☐ Test technology if virtual interview (camera, mic, internet, platform)
• ☐ Choose professional outfit and test it on camera
• ☐ Practice portfolio presentation one final time
• ☐ Print a copy of your resume to reference
• ☐ Prepare your physical space (clean background, good lighting)
• ☐ Get good sleep

Day Of:

• ☐ Review company and your talking points one more time
• ☐ Log in 5-10 minutes early
• ☐ Have water nearby
• ☐ Take a few deep breaths and remember they want you to succeed

Virtual Interview Considerations

Most internship interviews now happen via video call. Prepare your virtual presence carefully.

Technical Setup:

• Test camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand
• Use headphones for better audio quality
• Ensure stable WiFi (ethernet cable if possible)
• Close unnecessary applications to avoid notifications or crashes
• Have a backup plan if technology fails (phone number to call)

Environment:

• Choose clean, professional-looking background (or use virtual background tastefully)
• Ensure good lighting (face a window or use a desk lamp, avoid backlighting)
• Remove potential distractions from view
• Alert household members you’ll be in an interview
• Silence phone and computer notifications

On-Camera Presence:

• Position camera at eye level (stack books under laptop if needed)
• Look at the camera when speaking, not at your own image
• Sit upright with good posture
• Use natural hand gestures (being on camera doesn’t mean being frozen)
• Express appropriate energy and enthusiasm through your face and voice

Screen Sharing Portfolio:

• Practice screen sharing smoothly beforehand
• Close tabs/applications you don’t want visible
• Know exactly how to navigate your portfolio while presenting
• Have a backup plan if screen sharing fails (send portfolio link)

Post-Interview Follow-Up

Within 24 hours of your interview, send thank-you emails to everyone you spoke with.

Good thank-you email:

textSubject: Thank you - Graphic Design Internship Interview

Dear [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me yesterday about the summer design internship. I enjoyed learning about [specific project or aspect of company discussed] and hearing about your approach to [specific topic that came up].

Our conversation reinforced my interest in the position, particularly [specific element that excites you]. I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to projects like [mention something specific] and learning from your team.

Please let me know if you need any additional information or materials from me. I look forward to hearing about next steps.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Keep it brief (3-4 short paragraphs), reference something specific from your conversation to personalize it, reiterate genuine interest, and thank them for their time.

If they provided a timeline for decisions (“We’ll make offers by March 15”), wait until a few days after that date before following up if you haven’t heard anything. If they didn’t provide a timeline, following up 1-2 weeks after the interview is appropriate.

Common Interview Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls that hurt otherwise strong candidates:

Lack of Preparation: Not researching the company, having no questions to ask, or being unable to discuss your own portfolio work confidently.

Rambling Answers: Taking five minutes to answer simple questions. Practice concise responses.

Generic Responses: Answers that could apply to any company or any candidate. Be specific.

Negative Talk: Badmouthing previous employers, professors, clients, or teammates. Stay professional.

Over-Confidence or Arrogance: Acting like you know everything or don’t need mentorship. Remember, you’re applying for an internship to learn.

Passive Presence: Low energy, no enthusiasm, seeming disengaged. Interviews require appropriate energy.

No Questions: Saying “No questions” suggests lack of genuine interest or curiosity.

Poor Portfolio Presentation: Stumbling through your own work, being unable to explain design decisions, or showing work you can’t defend.

Inappropriate Dress: Being too casual for company culture (research appropriate attire).

Technology Issues: For virtual interviews, not testing technology beforehand.

Conclusion

Success in graphic design internship interviews comes from three foundations: strong work you can present confidently, genuine knowledge about and interest in the company, and thoughtful answers demonstrating self-awareness and professional maturity. Your portfolio proves you can design; the interview proves you can think, communicate, collaborate, and contribute to professional environments.

Prepare thoroughly by practicing your portfolio presentation until it feels natural, researching the company beyond surface-level information, developing thoughtful answers to common questions, and preparing intelligent questions to ask them. Remember that interviews aren’t interrogations—they’re conversations where both sides are evaluating fit. Your confidence comes from preparation, not from pretending to be something you’re not.

The questions covered in this guide represent the vast majority of what you’ll encounter in design internship interviews. Practice articulating your thinking about your work, your approach to design, your experiences working with others, and your genuine interest in the opportunity. Be honest, be professional, be enthusiastic, and be yourself.

Some interviews will go exceptionally well, and you’ll walk away feeling confident. Others won’t—you’ll stumble over answers, feel like you didn’t connect with interviewers, or realize afterward you forgot to mention important points. That’s normal and happens to everyone. Each interview, regardless of outcome, teaches you something that makes the next one easier.

Finally, remember that landing an internship isn’t just about being the best designer in the applicant pool—it’s about being the right fit for that particular team at that particular time. Sometimes you’ll do everything right and still not get the offer because someone else was simply a better match for what they needed. Don’t let rejections discourage you. Learn from each experience, continue improving your work and interview skills, and keep pursuing opportunities that genuinely excite you.

For comprehensive guidance on every aspect of the internship process, from finding opportunities to succeeding once hired, explore our complete guide to graphic design internships. Your design career starts with these conversations—prepare well and make them count.