Last June, we obtained accreditation for work placements from the Dutch company SBB. Therefore, we can train Dutch students as part of their professional practice 
. Our first intern was Sindy de Bruijn, a student from a graphic high school in Utrecht. She joined us in Chrášťany at the end of August, and her internship lasted until the end of January.
What were your expectations when you started at Label Design?
I knew that Label Design wasn’t a graphic design studio, and I was honestly a bit skeptical. My focus was mainly on the experience of living in Prague. I found printing techniques interesting, especially because we had a small print shop at school where I learned a lot. However, I was worried that the work wouldn't be challenging enough. So, I let myself be surprised by what would come my way.
How was working at a printing company like Label Design different from what you expected?
At my previous internship, I worked as a graphic designer on projects like magazines, infographics, and posters, which were related to my studies. At Label Design, everything was completely different. The focus was on preparing labels for printing. It was a challenge to look at things from the perspective of a DTP designer and printer. At first, I didn’t notice mistakes or didn’t know what to focus on. Eventually, I got better at understanding that, though it’s still a complex process.
What surprised you the most during your internship?
When I first walked into the production department, I didn’t know what I was seeing. I had imagined something like a big office printer, but it was completely different. I became really interested in the printing techniques and wanted to know everything in detail. At first, it was hard to understand the technical terms in English, but my colleagues took the time to explain everything patiently and show me.
What projects did you work on during your internship, and how did it feel to contribute to them?
I worked on various projects, but my favorite was designing labels with special materials. The goal was to bring new, unique designs to the market. I loved combining the materials and designs in a way that enhanced each other. The results were surprising, and we were all really happy with them.
What did you enjoy most during your internship?
I enjoyed working both in the office and in production. The combination of experimenting with my hands and designing behind the laptop gave me a lot of energy. The movement and variety in the work was really fun for me.
What challenges did you face during your internship?
I worked much more independently here than at my previous internship and had more responsibility for the final result. It was sometimes a challenge, both for me and for the team, since I was their first intern. However, we found ways to make it work, and I learned a lot about flexibility and teamwork.
How has this international internship influenced your development as a graphic designer?
I learned to be open to new experiences and challenges. Building a life abroad isn’t always easy, but it made me more confident. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, and I now know better how to learn by doing, making mistakes, and pushing through.
How has this experience changed your view of your future in graphic design?
I don’t want to be stuck in a routine and would rather continue to combine design with hands-on work. This internship showed me that variety is possible and how important it is to step out of your comfort zone. It has broadened my view of the industry.
Do you notice any differences in work culture between the Netherlands and the Czech Republic?
For example, lunch is very different in the Czech Republic. While we often have simple sandwiches in the Netherlands, here, they enjoy a meal that we’d consider dinner during lunchtime. I also notice that the communication at work is a bit more formal, especially when speaking to the boss. Colleagues address the boss with more respectful politeness, whereas in the Netherlands, we’re more informal and quickly shift to relaxed conversations.
What did you enjoy doing outside of work in Prague?
I loved discovering new places, especially in Prague 2 and 3. These neighborhoods are quieter but still have beautiful buildings and great food. In December, I couldn’t get enough of the Christmas markets, especially the one at Náměstí Míru (it had the best Langos stand).
Do you have a favorite place in the Czech Republic you like to visit?
I love the Krkonoše area. The forests and mountains are stunning. I went snowboarding there for a day and spent the rest of the time hiking with my family. It’s a place where I can completely relax.
What’s your favorite Czech dish, and why?
I grew up with Czech dishes because my mother is Czech. Market foods like Halusky, Klobása, and especially Langos are my favorites. They’re especially enjoyable during the Christmas markets.
If you had to pick one thing that made this internship unique, what would it be?
The openness of the team to try new techniques and experiments. The enthusiasm with which they responded to new ideas and results made this experience really enjoyable.
Here is Sindy's work – the special materials called for a special design, and Sindy mastered it brilliantly.
