Intern Dislikes Designers & Product Teams: My Experience

Hey everyone,

I recently wrapped up my first two months as an intern, and I've got to be honest, it's been quite the eye-opening experience – and not always in a good way. I came in with so much enthusiasm, ready to dive into the world of design and product development, but some of my interactions, especially with the designers and product teams, have left me feeling pretty disillusioned. I'm not trying to bash anyone, but I feel like I need to vent and maybe get some perspective from others who've been in similar situations. So, buckle up, because I'm about to share my rollercoaster of an experience.

My Initial Excitement and High Hopes

When I landed this internship, I was thrilled. I'd spent countless hours studying design principles, poring over case studies, and building my portfolio. I envisioned myself collaborating with talented professionals, brainstorming innovative ideas, and making a real impact on the product. I pictured a supportive environment where I could learn from experienced designers and product managers, soaking up their wisdom and honing my skills. The reality, however, has been a bit… different.

My initial weeks were filled with anticipation. I was eager to prove myself, contribute meaningfully, and absorb as much knowledge as possible. I saw this internship as a golden opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice, to apply what I had learned in the classroom to real-world projects. I imagined myself working closely with designers, engaging in lively discussions about user experience, and seeing my ideas come to life. I also believed that product teams would be collaborative and understanding.

I was particularly excited about the prospect of working on a project from start to finish, witnessing the entire design process unfold. I wanted to understand how design decisions are made, how user feedback is incorporated, and how a product evolves from a concept to a final, polished version. I also wanted to learn how to navigate the complexities of working within a team, how to communicate effectively, and how to handle conflicting opinions. I really wanted to make a good impression and show them I was an intern who is responsible.

The Reality Check: Disconnects and Disappointments

The first few weeks weren't terrible, but I started noticing some disconnects. The designers seemed… distant. Getting feedback felt like pulling teeth, and when I did get it, it was often vague or unhelpful. I felt like my ideas weren't being heard, and I started to question if I was even making a difference. The product teams also seemed to have their own way of doing things, which didn't always feel very inclusive to an intern. These experiences felt far from what I had imagined.

One of the biggest challenges has been the lack of clear communication. I often found myself in situations where I wasn't sure what was expected of me or how my work fit into the larger picture. I would ask for clarification, but the responses were sometimes dismissive or confusing. It felt like I was constantly trying to decipher cryptic instructions or navigate ambiguous expectations. This lack of clarity made it difficult to prioritize my tasks and to feel confident in the work I was producing.

Another source of disappointment has been the limited opportunities for collaboration. I had envisioned myself working closely with designers, brainstorming ideas, and receiving constructive feedback on my work. However, much of my time has been spent on isolated tasks, with little interaction with the design team. When I did have the chance to present my ideas, they were often met with lukewarm responses or brushed aside without much consideration. This left me feeling like my contributions weren't valued and that my voice wasn't being heard. I felt like I was just doing busywork and no useful experience as a future designer.

Specific Issues I've Encountered

Let's dive into some specific issues. One recurring problem has been the feedback (or lack thereof). I'd submit designs, and weeks would go by without a word. When I followed up, I'd get a cursory, "Looks good," or a vague, "Needs work," without any concrete suggestions for improvement. How am I supposed to grow if I don't know what I'm doing wrong? And it's not just the design feedback; it's the whole vibe. There seems to be this unspoken hierarchy where interns are seen as more of a burden than an asset. It's like,