Every time we’re asked to speak at design schools and universities we meet more and more students interested in socially responsible design. We’re inspired by their zeal and motivated by their interest—it really means a lot to us. To show our appreciation, we strive to be the best design role models we can be; this includes mentoring and educating next-gen designers through internships.
The unique thing about a Firebelly internship is that the level of responsibility and participation are exactly the same for interns as they are for our staff designers. We don't order you to pick up our dry cleaning or fetch us lattes. When we extend the opportunity of an internship it’s because we feel you’re a good match in personality and passion (and ahead of your years in talent).
Because you work on the same projects as everyone else, you get a chance to see how the process functions by actually being a part of it. From initial brainstorming and concepting, to final press check and delivery, it's a very hands-on experience. For us, it's about bringing someone into the Firebelly family who is eager to learn, anxious to get involved, and excited to work with and learn from an exceptional team of professionals and an amazing client lineup.
Our internships typically last 4 to 6 months and are paid a monthly stipened. So, even though you can elect to have Fridays off, we expect you to treat the opportunity like a full-time job in regards to the effort you invest. The point being, an average project may take several months to complete and we want our interns to leave Firebelly with a ton of real world experience and several professional projects in their portfolio they can point to and say, "I did this."
Firebelly accepts interns twice a year (spring/summer + fall/winter). We’ll gladly review your work (PDFs, JPGs or portfolio links, please) and file the stuff we like, but can’t offer critique and advice to everyone who calls. If you’re interested in a studio tour or “informational” interview, that happens twice a year too. We dedicate two days a year to those sort of visits and will post those opportunities in our news as well. If you really want to stay up on things, sign up for our newsletter.
Current opening: Applications are not being accepted any longer. We will be in touch in early January to let you know one way or another. Best of luck to all!