iX Design Intern Review

Working with various clients, day to day creating wireframes, running user testing sessions, creating prototypes, implementing design systems, creating components. All of this contributes to an iterative workflow where work is continually presented to the client and improved upon for the final solution.
Working alongside other designers, developers, project managers, BAs.

I was given a high level of responsibility on the projects I worked on, managing large portions of the key deliverables for various clients and often being a direct point of contact for clients.

Prior to my placement I had never experienced this particular type of design. I was very quickly able to pick up a number of new skills due to the high level of learning opportunities IBM provides, as well as the level of responsibility given to me early on.
Specific skills include: presenting to and communicating with clients, higher understanding of visual design, UX design.

There are a number of groups within IBM which provide support, i.e. task manager, foundation manager, other interns, the buddy system, colleagues, so I received a high level of support and guidance where it was needed.
Additionally there are regular reviews with the managers to ensure that you're happy with the progress you're making and the projects you're working on.

The specific part of IBM I worked within has a culture similar to a start up which allows for a higher level of creative freedom and collaboration with other employees. Additionally the teams are generally small and diverse, again contributing to a higher level of innovation. Overall a very supportive atmosphere where everyone wants you to succeed.

In general I really enjoyed my placement, I was able to develop a large number of new skills and was given a high level of responsibility to work on meaningful projects. Working from home was occasionally challenging but there were the support systems in place to manage that.

Yes