The Value Of Internships
Working As an Intern For Graduate Fashion Foundation, With TJ Mike-Etareh
Studying a non-fashion degree, I didn’t really know what to expect from the fashion world when I got the offer to work with Graduate Fashion Foundation as a Branding, Communications and Graphic Design Intern. This role has opened my eyes and taught me so much about the world of work and has provided me with a fantastic opportunity to witness first hand the beauty and innovation that is made reality in the hands of the next generation of designers, writers, photographers and stylists.
I will never forget watching my first runway show during London Fashion Week.
To be able to see Maximillian Raynor’s collection in person, an experience only made possible through working for the Foundation, got me even more invested in fashion. It sparked a curiosity in me. Graduate Fashion Foundation pushed me out of my comfort zone to try new things but also to gain new skills, both technical and social.
Being able to utilise the technical skills I had learned during university and apply them to the Foundation, with its own brand guidelines and unique look, has definitely made me a better graphic designer, and thinker. In terms of social skills, I would say I have gained a new found confidence speaking with people. I don’t think I could’ve asked for a better team to work with, everyone was so incredibly patient, positive and open, it genuinely felt like a nurturing experience where I could learn through practice but also felt like the work I was doing had genuine weight and impact.
For example, I was given the opportunity to work on a range of assets for Graduate Fashion Week, including Schools and Colleges Day, making presentations for teachers, posters, booklets and social media posts about the event, but also taking a lead on the communications with schools, as well as organising small teams. It was such a gratifying experience getting to see my work displayed during Graduate Fashion Week, posted on the stories of notable people within the fashion industry. It has also shown me how gratifying it can be to speak with people, get to know them, and work towards a common goal.
I think I grew a lot in the last 8 months. The way I view the world, the way I view myself, and the way I view my own artistic practice has changed dramatically and I really owe it to the experiences I had and the people I met during my time at Graduate Fashion Foundation.
View TJ’s Instagram here
