What makes a great UX designer intern?
When that intern candidate asked me about good qualities in UX design interns, it really made me reflect on how the most valuable traits often go beyond just technical skills.
I recently had an interesting conversation with a UX design intern candidate who asked me about my experiences working with interns. It got me thinking about the qualities I've seen in outstanding interns over the years, and I wanted to share these thoughts while they're fresh in my mind.
Through my experience mentoring UX design interns, I've noticed that certain qualities consistently stand out. A few interns, in particular, have left lasting impressions that shaped my understanding of what makes an exceptional intern. While internships typically only last about three months, these standout individuals showed remarkable qualities that made them truly shine.
What really stood out to me
The interns who impressed me most shared some key characteristics. They were hungry learners who jumped right in without waiting to be told what to do. This is particularly important because as a mentor, I wasn't there to assign tasks – I was there to support and guide them.
What I found fascinating was how they approached their work. They would:
Take the initiative to gather information about their projects independently
Come to me with specific questions after doing their initial research
Own their projects completely, treating them as their responsibility
Communicate proactively about their needs and challenges
A story that stays with me
One particular experience really illustrates these qualities. This intern was given a project that, honestly, had a scope well beyond what you'd typically expect for an intern. It was quite vague and challenging – the kind of project that could easily overwhelm someone new to the field.
What impressed me was how they handled it. They:
Recognized the complexity early on and voiced their concerns thoughtfully
Dove into recommended readings and research to build their understanding
Reached out for help in scoping the project realistically
Maintained ownership throughout, while being open to guidance
Learned our design system and created polished mockups that genuinely surprised me with their quality
But what really set them apart was their thinking beyond themselves. Even for work they couldn't complete during their internship, they created plans for how others could continue it. This kind of team-minded thinking is incredibly valuable in any professional setting.
The power of having your own take
Through these experiences, I've noticed something crucial: the best interns don't come to conversations empty-handed. They form their own point of view first, even if their thinking might need adjustment later. This approach helps them:
Engage more meaningfully in discussions
Build stronger understanding of the work
Navigate different viewpoints more effectively
Grow faster in their role
At my current company, we talk a lot about leadership principles like ownership and bias for action. These aren't just corporate buzzwords – they're qualities I've seen make a real difference in intern success. It's about finding that balance between taking initiative and knowing when to seek guidance, between pushing for quick wins and thinking long-term.
Bringing it all together
When that intern candidate asked me about good qualities in UX design interns, it really made me reflect on how the most valuable traits often go beyond just technical skills. Yes, design knowledge is important – it helps you get up to speed faster. But what really makes someone stand out is their approach to learning, their willingness to take ownership, and their ability to work effectively with others.
These qualities aren't unique to UX design – they're valuable across any profession. But in our field, where iteration and user feedback are so crucial, they become particularly important in the design process. It’s beneficial to us to bring that same iterative mindset to our own growth and communication.