Internship Experience at Lucca Lily: A Design Journey with Andrea

Andrea Landaverde, Design Intern @ Lucca Lily Design Collective

I have heard that finding an internship is harder than finding a full-time job. Working as an intern for Grace Smith and Maria Latorre at Lucca Lily Design Collective has been a valuable learning journey. As founders of the agency, they mentored me, shared their expertise, and welcomed me into their creative world. I have also witnessed them balancing their roles as mothers, which adds a sense of connection and authenticity.

Throughout my time at LLDC, I absorbed valuable life lessons and witnessed firsthand the resilience required to thrive in the design industry. Every challenge faced by the team became a learning moment, demonstrating how far LLDC has come.

Reviewing Color Proofs at our Print Tour at Mittera

A key highlight was gaining proficiency in Figma and adding it to my design skill set. Another unforgettable experience was touring a printing factory, where I observed the intricate processes of printing—each step revealing the craftsmanship behind every project.

To me, graphic design is a journey filled with challenges, breakthroughs, and moments of discovery. The creative process is often misunderstood by those outside the field; few realize the thought, time, and care invested in each design. There is immense satisfaction in seeing a project come to life, and even more in knowing there’s always room for growth. If a design isn’t chosen, it becomes an inspiration for future uses rather than a discarded idea.

As I continue my path in graphic design, I will carry the lessons and experiences from Lucca Lily with me as I venture further into the industry.