So, you want to find an internship in the UK? Maybe in graphic design, coding, UX, or something cool like video editing or game development? Awesome. But before you send out those applications, let’s talk about your portfolio.
Because here’s the thing: your portfolio is like your highlight reel. It’s the Netflix trailer of your work. And if it doesn’t grab attention in the first few seconds? Click. Next.
Why Portfolios Matter More Than CVs (Sometimes)
Sure, your CV says what you’ve done. But your portfolio shows it. And especially in creative or tech roles, seeing is believing. Employers want to feel your style, see your logic, and experience your work.
A bland portfolio is like showing up to a costume party in a plain t-shirt. Technically fine, but...meh.
What to Include (Even If You Think You Don’t Have Anything)
Let’s get this out of the way: you don’t need years of experience to build a killer portfolio. Here’s what you can showcase:
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Passion Projects: Redesigned your favorite app just for fun? Built a game in your spare time? That counts.
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Class Assignments: If it looks good and shows your skills, it belongs in your portfolio.
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Freelance Gigs: Even small ones. Designed a logo for your cousin’s bakery? Add it.
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Mock Projects: Invent a fake company and create a website, logo, or app for it. Get creative!
Remember: it’s not about size. It’s about substance.
How to Present Your Work
This part is like plating food on MasterChef. The content matters, but so does the presentation.
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Keep it clean: Use platforms like Behance, GitHub, Notion, or even a simple website builder like Wix.
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Tell the story: For each project, share what the goal was, what tools you used, what challenges you faced, and what you learned.
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Be honest: Don’t try to sound like a tech wizard if you’re still figuring out JavaScript. Growth is part of the appeal.
Pro Tips for Making Your Portfolio Stand Out
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Curate, don’t dump: Better to have 3 solid projects than 10 half-baked ones.
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Tailor it: Applying to a UX internship? Highlight your user research and wireframes.
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Add a personal touch: Show your personality. Your voice. A little humor, a quirky intro, or even a doodle can make you memorable.
Real Talk: What If You Feel Stuck?
Look, we’ve all stared at a blank screen thinking, "What do I even put in here?" It helps to think like this: if your future manager were sitting next to you, what would you be proud to show them?
Start small. Set a weekend goal to finish one project write-up. Then another. You don’t have to build the Louvre overnight.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Finding an internship in the UK (or anywhere, really) can feel overwhelming. But building a solid portfolio? That’s something you can control.
Put your work out there. Share your passion. Let people see what you bring to the table.
And remember, every expert was once a beginner with a scrappy portfolio and big dreams.
Now go make something awesome.
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