Hi Bold Orange Team!

I’d love to share what led me here and why I’m excited to apply for the design intern role.

Since before I can remember, I have always cared about creating better experiences for people, even before I knew what that could look like as a career. I started college studying digital marketing at the University of Wisconsin–Stout, but after three semesters I realized it did not align with the kind of impact I wanted to make. During a gap semester, I explored other paths, including nursing and graphic design, and eventually discovered Google’s UX Design Certificate. That experience helped me understand how design decisions, whether visual, digital, or strategic, can meaningfully serve people. It ultimately led me to transfer to the University of Minnesota Duluth.

At UMD, I have learned from incredible professors and peers who encouraged me to think critically about design across disciplines. Through roles at Duluth Newman, Graco, and most recently CHAI Dallas, I gained hands on experience in digital design, content, and UX. These experiences helped me develop a strong design foundation and an appreciation for how thoughtful visuals, structure, and storytelling all contribute to effective work.

I found Bold Orange while researching design studios in the Twin Cities, and your work immediately stood out for its strong eye for design and clear point of view. Your case studies for Caribou Coffee and Polaris especially caught my attention. I loved how intentional and confident the work felt, balancing consistency with personality in a way that feels both polished and human.

I am excited by the opportunity to learn from a team that values craft, collaboration, and good design. Bold Orange is a place where I could genuinely see myself growing, contributing, and hopefully continuing to work beyond this internship. I would love the chance to bring my skills, curiosity, and design perspective to your team.

Stay excellent,
Austin Lage