Step into the world of TDG Marketing through the eyes of our Junior Graphic Design Intern, Tricia Almeida. We asked Trish some questions to learn more about how her time with us at TDG has impacted her career, and she graciously shared her journey, experiences, and growth during her time with us, providing a unique perspective on life at TDG.

Tell us a bit about your background and what led you to join TDG as an intern. 

I've always been deeply passionate about advertising, graphic design, and photography, which led me to pursue an Honours Advertising program at OCAD University. Throughout my education, I've dedicated myself to honing my skills and gaining a deep understanding of the creative realm. 

My journey to TDG as an intern was driven by a couple of key factors. Firstly, I saw it as a fantastic opportunity to get my foot in the door of the industry I'm passionate about. I believe that internships provide invaluable hands-on experience and networking opportunities that are essential for growth in this field. 

Secondly, TDG's reputation precedes itself. I've long admired the company's work and heard glowing recommendations from a mentor of mine. Their innovative approach to advertising and design, coupled with their commitment to excellence, really resonated with me. 

Moreover, I'm drawn to TDG's collaborative culture. I thrive in environments where creativity is encouraged, and diverse perspectives are valued. I'm eager to contribute my skills and learn from the talented team here. 

Ultimately, my future goal is to carve out a career path as an art director or creative director, where I can shape narratives, push boundaries, and inspire others. TDG seemed like the perfect place to embark on that journey, and I'm excited about the opportunities I’ve had to learn and grow during my time here. 

What were your initial expectations coming into the internship, and how did they align with your actual experiences at TDG? 

Coming into the internship at TDG, I had several expectations based on my research and understanding of the company, as well as my prior experiences in the field. Firstly, I expected to be challenged creatively and professionally, given TDG's reputation for pushing boundaries and delivering innovative solutions. I anticipated that I would have the opportunity to work on real projects, collaborate with talented individuals, and gain insights into the inner workings of a top-tier creative agency.

Additionally, I expected to learn and grow significantly during my time at TDG. I knew that the internship would provide me with hands-on experience in areas such as project management, client communication, and creative ideation, which are crucial skills for anyone aspiring to a career in advertising and design. 

Overall, my expectations were high, but I can confidently say that my actual experiences at TDG have exceeded them in many ways. From day one, I was welcomed into a dynamic and supportive environment where my ideas were valued, and my skills were put to the test. I've had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for growth. 

One aspect that pleasantly surprised me was the level of mentorship and guidance I received from senior members of the team. I was paired with a mentor who provided invaluable feedback, advice, and encouragement throughout my internship, helping me navigate complex projects and develop my skills further. 

What projects or tasks have you been involved in during your time here, and which ones stand out as particularly memorable or impactful for you? 

During my time at TDG, I've been involved in a variety of projects that have allowed me to apply my skills and creativity effectively. One area where I've made significant contributions is in social media graphic design. I've had the opportunity to create numerous posts that not only capture the essence of the client's brand but also resonate with their audience. Seeing these posts come to life on the client's social media platforms has been particularly rewarding for me. 

Another memorable project was designing a brochure for a dental company. It presented a unique challenge as it required condensing a substantial amount of information about TMJ into a compact layout. I had to find a balance between making the content visually appealing and ensuring all the necessary information was communicated effectively. It was a gratifying experience to see the final product meet both aesthetic and informational needs. 

Additionally, I had the opportunity to create two social media decks during my internship. These decks served as comprehensive presentations showcasing the client's social media strategy, content calendar, and visual assets. Being entrusted with such critical tasks allowed me to demonstrate my ability to communicate effectively through design while also contributing to the overall success of the client's campaigns. 

Overall, these projects have not only allowed me to hone my design skills but have also provided me with invaluable experience in client communication, time management, and project execution. Each project has been meaningful in its own way, and I'm proud to have been a part of it during my time at TDG.

How do you feel TDG has supported your growth and development during your time here?

I've felt incredibly supported in my growth and development during my time at TDG. From the moment I started, the team has been invested in my success and provided me with ample opportunities to learn and improve. 

The mentorship I received, particularly from Courtney (Studio Director) and Bree (Senior Graphic Designer), has been instrumental in my development. They provided guidance, feedback, and encouragement every step of the way, helping me navigate complex projects and refine my skills. 

TDG fosters a culture of continuous learning and collaboration. I've had the opportunity to participate in team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and monthly feedback sessions, where I received constructive criticism and insights for improvement. 

TDG also values autonomy and trust. As my internship progressed, I was given increasing independence to manage projects and interact directly with clients. This allowed me to take ownership of my work and further develop my communication and problem-solving skills. 

I have been impressed with the importance of personal growth beyond technical skills. TDG has provided resources for professional development, encouraged networking opportunities, and fostered a supportive environment where ideas are welcomed and creativity is celebrated. 

Overall, TDG's unwavering support, combined with the challenging and collaborative environment, has been instrumental in my growth and development as a designer. I'm grateful for the opportunities I've been given and confident that the skills and experiences gained here will serve me well in my future endeavours. 

Final Thoughts from Trish…

As my time at TDG comes to a close, I want to express my gratitude to the team for their support and camaraderie. Working alongside such talented individuals has been a privilege, and I've gained invaluable experiences and connections. To future interns and readers, embrace every opportunity and never stop pursuing your passions. TDG is more than just a workplace; it's a community of creativity and support. Thank you for the incredible journey, and I look forward to our paths crossing again.

We’ve been so impressed with your growth over your time with us at TDG, Trish, and are grateful for all your hard work. We know you will do great things in the world of Design and look forward to following your career as you continue to grow.