As Sienna nears completing her first year at the DSD studio as a Junior Graphic Designer, we thought it was timely to reflect on her experience so far. Let’s look back over 2025, a year of learning curves, small wins, and quiet shifts in confidence; and an honest account of what it’s really like finding your footing in design.
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What’s your name and role at DSD?
I’m Sienna-Jayne Hunt and I’m a part-time Junior Graphic Designer.
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What have you learnt in your first year within a studio environment?
Since working in the studio I have learnt how to adapt to different styles, developed my Adobe skills, and gained a deeper understanding of the creative process. I have also improved my ability to take feedback, manage my time effectively which has helped me grow both creatively and professionally.
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What interests you about Graphic Design most?
I love the fact that there are always multiple solutions to any given brief which keeps things interesting, with no two projects being the same. Being able to express creativity whilst producing meaningful designs that are brief-led makes the process extremely rewarding, combining imagination with clear communication.
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What do you enjoy most about working at DSD?
The studio has provided me with the opportunity to enhance my skill set and valuable hands-on experience in a real-world design environment. Dan is a great mentor who offers support and guidance which has helped grow my confidence and I enjoy being in a professional work place. I especially love helping clients’ visions come to life, it’s rewarding watching their ideas turn into real, tangible assets.
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What is most challenging about your work?
The joys of searching for stock images!
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What is your current go-to design style?
I will always love the modernist designs, appreciating the simplicity and elegance that comes with the idea that less is definitely more! However, some weeks I may surprise Dan by stepping out of that minimal approach and create something bold and eye-catching, like a logo with striking colours and unique shapes. It is exciting to experiment with different styles, constantly pushing my creative boundaries.
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Is there a project that you have worked on that you are particularly proud of?
While working at the studio I have had the opportunity to create many different types of designs, and I have genuinely enjoyed working on each one. Although, more recently I helped create Pure Swiss Aesthetics a new Christmas email signature which builds on their new brand style, which I am absolutely obsessed with the final outcome for! It was exciting to work on a festive design that would be seen by so many people, and loved seeing how all the elements came together.
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What are you looking forward to in 2026?
I am excited for the new opportunities that may arise in 2026 as I graduate from College. I look forward to exploring different experiences and challenges that can help me grow as a designer, improve my creative skills, and push my design abilities. At the same time I am motivated to achieve new future goals, personally and professionally, in areas that are important to me, including developing my own signature design style. Overall, I see 2026 as a year full of growth and development.
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If you could be anything else other than a designer what would it be?
Since the age of 4 years old, I have been skiing and it has become one of my biggest passions over the years, with Christmas often spent in the mountains. If I had the opportunity too, I would train to become a ski instructor, sharing my experience and knowledge; teaching young children to have the same flare and confidence I have developed when at the mountain peak.
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How do you spend your ‘time-off’?
In my ‘time-off’, I enjoy a variety of activities that help me relax and have fun. I love attending concerts like seeing Tate McRae live, because there is something thrilling about the energy with live music! I also enjoy treating myself with a variety of nail designs as it’s a great way to express my creativity. On a more everyday basis I spend time scrolling through Pinterest making my dream shopping list that little bit longer!!
