A Win-Win Graphic Design Internship Program
The Graphic Design Xperience Project is a summer partnership providing cost-effective design talent and meaningful experiences between local employers and NHCC’s Graphic Design Program through paid graphic design internships.
Employers who engage an intern gain effective outcomes in efficiency and accessibility through an expanded internal staff. An internship also provides coaching and leadership experience for employees who supervise or mentor interns. An internship makes a positive impact on employer workload at a pay rate that’s reasonable.
For interns who present substantial design skills, the Xperience Project puts those abilities into practice, and introduces designers to team collaboration and target audiences. The part-time role, compensated at $16 or above, supports the student as they complete their education.
Let the win-win begin!
What do Employers say About the Xperience Project?
"Interns not only assist in our work production, they help us look at ourselves, our processes, and our brand."—Principal, Visual Communications
“I liked that [the Internship Fair] was more relaxed than a formal interview. I felt I got to really chat with the students and get to know them.”—Senior Art Director, Community Lifestyle Magazines
“[Our intern] was instrumental in research and concept development for a new client at Star. She had fresh ideas/perspective and drew on her artistic experience to provide some really lovely concepts.”— Director of Creative, Star
“An intern provides much-needed workload relief. She was pleasant, productive, and easy to work with. It really doesn’t get much better than that!”— Area Marketing Manager/Upper Midwest, US Foods
What do Interns say About the Xperience Project?
“One, I was able to grow in my creativity with the freedom I was given. Two, I was able to get a job thanks to it. And three, I thoroughly enjoyed working with the people I worked with as well as the work I did. Also, I now have some pretty cool stuff to put in my portfolio that I’m very proud of.”— Graphic Production Artist, FISION Corporation
“I received a tremendous amount of positive support and feedback from everyone. That helped me grow and become more confident.”— Production Artist, Universal Promo
"With each different project, I learned how to flex my creativity under certain limitations and deadlines, and learned how to manage my time while juggling several projects at once."— Engineer/Graphic Designer, ShelDon Print and Design
“This is a great experience for me and I feel a lot more confident going forward in my search for a design job.” – Lead Graphic Designer, R&D Sales
How to get Started
Employers: Contact Career Services (763-488-0445 or careerservices@nhcc.edu) to discuss your creative needs and internship preparation. You can also learn about and sign up for our annual spring Internship Fair.
Interns: Contact Career Services (763-488-0445 or careerservices@nhcc.edu) to learn more and discuss your options.
Student Internship Design Work
Featured in February 2016 edition of Edina Magazine (Tiger Oak Media)