Applying Interaction Design in the Real World

Completing my work-integrated learning unit with the BMW Group + QUT Design Academy has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my degree. Going into the project, I expected to gain industry experience and strengthen my portfolio, but I also came away with a much clearer understanding of myself as a designer.

As an interaction design student, one of the aspects I appreciated most about the experience was the opportunity to work in an environment where user experience design was understood and valued. I find that many people struggle to define what interaction designers do, but the team at the Academy proposed three excellent and challenging briefs that aligned well with the skillset of an interaction designer.

The project brief itself was another highlight of the experience. Creating a tablet-based interaction for open day that would inform and engage high school students and their parents was a challenging task. I wanted to incorporate elements of gamification to create a fun experience while still providing the necessary information. Balancing creativity with practical constraints pushed me to think more critically about my design decisions and how they contributed to the broader user experience.

Looking ahead, I hope to build a career that combines creativity and technical problem-solving. As a double degree student, I feel that I have had more experience in the Information Technology industry than in the Design industry, but this experience has given me confidence in my abilities and encouraged me to apply for design-focused and technical roles as I begin my career. I would encourage anyone studying design to apply for this program because it is an amazing way to grow your design and communication skills with the help of knowledgeable mentors.

Sasha Petrenko
BMW Group Design Intern, 2026