If there is one thing my internship taught me, it is that instructional design is never as simple as it looks. It is like assembling furniture with instructions that seem clear until you suddenly realize you are holding the wrong screw. Working with Brad and Rosanna rebuilding parts of the Learning Agency course in Rise 360 helped me see tools I never noticed before. Theories like chunking, scaffolding, and cognitive load turned into real design decisions that shaped whether a lesson felt smooth or overwhelming.
Accessibility became another unexpected experience. Writing alt text, adjusting spacing, and simplifying layouts showed me how small design choices can instantly change how approachable content feels. UDL transformed from a requirement into a mindset that guided every project.
My second project which was podcast editing, brought its own exciting adventure. Listening to the same sentence over and over taught me more about pacing, tone, and clarity than I expected. After many late nights experimenting with tools, I finally found my rhythm. I learned how much listeners rely on smooth transitions and clear audio, and I gained new respect for anyone who edits sound professionally.
What surprised me most was how much instructional design relies on project management and communication. Meetings, feedback rounds, shared documents, and revisions are all part of the workflow. I learned that explaining my design choices clearly is just as important as making them. Collaboration includes a little chaos, a lot of communication, and some satisfying moments when everything finally comes together.
The variety of tasks I worked on, from LMS restructuring to forms logic to course redesign to media editing, showed me how wide and exciting this field really is. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I felt encouraged. I love exploring new tools, solving complex problems, and creating content that feels supportive and accessible for learners.
Looking back, I can see how much I grew in my writing, accessibility awareness, organizational habits, and confidence with clients. I also learned more about my design personality. I am a learner focused designer who likes thoughtful structure, efficient systems, and the occasional last minute idea that I have to test before I can sleep.
If I had to summarize the experience in one thought, it would be this. Instructional design is not about perfection. It is about progress, practice and every small improvement makes you more confident in the work you are creating.
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