GETTING READY
HOW INTERNSHIPS CAN KICKSTART YOUR CAREER Find out how SUTD students gain an edge in the working world by securing internships to explore and learn more about themselves.
My role
Aaron Soares Architecture and Sustainable Design, (Class of 2022) Model Maker Okashimo Private Limited
Take pride in all that you do, think out of the box, and do not let dreams just be dreams – just do it.
While I focused on model-making as part of the design process and presentation, I was also assigned to many different tasks as Okashimo is a relatively small studio. This included conducting and presenting heavy preliminary research for new projects, getting involved in the design process for sculpture works, pitching ideas to my boss and more. These experiences made my journey at Okashimo a fruitful one as it was my first step into the design industry.
My challenge Some of the challenges I faced included meeting the high expectations and fast-paced nature of the development of the floor plans and other drawings. Thankfully, I could consult my colleague and design lead, who not only taught me how to be more efficient in Rhino, but also how to use a checklist to ensure expectations were met on time. Another challenge was that while we used 3D printers and laser-cutting machines in school, the model-making process here was manual, using cutting
My role
Azfar Hamidudin Bin K O Noordin Engineering Product Development (Class of 2022) Design Engineering Intern 3D Metal Forge
Try to land as many internships as you can.
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SUTD career guide 2022
My role can be split into two distinct areas: design work and reverse engineering. Design work involved ideating and modelling a product in CAD software from scratch based on customer requirements, such as creating a chemical rack to hold engineering components. Reverse engineering saw me using the software to create components for customers, using either engineering drawings or a hand-held 3D scanner.
My challenge Adhering to Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) principles was initially difficult, as I had not designed many complex parts for 3D printing before this internship. Moreover, due to the pandemic, it was also tough to physically interact with people on the design team as all communication was done digitally, which made
knives and foam boards while referring to printed floorplans. As such, we had to formulate a concise order of assembly before any construction could begin.
My biggest takeaway In school, we sometimes close a blind eye for some projects, especially when juggling deadlines and having to prioritise. But an ‘anything goes’ attitude will not work here, and it shows in your projects. But I also loved how every aspect of the projects were well thought out, and had many opportunities to go wild and experiment, especially at the start of the design process. After all, we never know when inspiration will strike.
Advice for my juniors Internships are the best way to learn out of the classroom as the experiences here have so much to offer to prepare you not only for your future career but your upcoming terms too. I strongly encourage you to choose one which will add value to your learning and portfolio and not do an internship for the sake of it. Take pride in all that you do, think out of the box, and do not let dreams just be dreams – just do it.
asking questions about DfAM more difficult. Thankfully, the design team and mentors were always open to me scheduling a call with them to help me with any issues which made the learning process much faster.
My biggest takeaway Though some projects were a little challenging, overcoming them allowed me to improve my technical skills to a much greater degree. Having exposure to the additive manufacturing industry also allowed me to broaden my skillset and has given me some valuable experience working in a rapidly growing industry.
Advice for my juniors Try to land as many internships as you can. This will give you much clearer idea of what you are passionate about and allow you to make an informed decision when picking your career.
