Purdue student helps ROCKaBLOCK launch AR app
A Purdue Polytechnic student in Indianapolis played a central role in developing a new augmented reality application during an internship with local apparel company ROCKaBLOCK. Over nearly eight months, the student contributed to the app’s foundation, designed animated elements, and managed a rebranding project for one of the company’s major clients.
The student, enrolled in Purdue’s themed entertainment design programme, joined ROCKaBLOCK as a design and production intern. His primary task was establishing the groundwork for Rock AR, the company’s new augmented reality platform. The app aims to bring apparel to life by integrating animations, music, voice work, and other interactive features. He was responsible for designing the initial user interface and creating animations currently visible within the platform.
Although he had previously worked on an interactive map project for Purdue University, this experience marked his first professional engagement with UI/UX design. His introduction to the discipline had come in his first year of university, where he worked with prototyping tools such as Figma to explore app and web interfaces. This foundation proved helpful as he tackled the technical requirements of the internship.
The scope of his responsibilities extended well beyond the app. ROCKaBLOCK tasked him with delivering a comprehensive rebrand for the Midwest Clinic, a Chicago-based international music convention. He crafted a new visual identity by designing a fresh logo, selecting a refined colour palette, and introducing a new typographic style. Alongside this creative work, he gained practical knowledge of screen printing, assisting with processes ranging from preparing screens to managing finished products. These hands-on tasks provided valuable insights into how design transitions from concept to physical merchandise, offering genuine portfolio pieces that reflected real-world industry experience.
The opportunity to join ROCKaBLOCK originated from a communication shared by Christian Rogers, Assistant Dean for Purdue Polytechnic in Indianapolis. Initially scheduled to conclude in May, the internship was extended through August by company founder Rockland Page, reflecting the student’s contributions and adaptability.
His coursework at Purdue provided a strong base for managing evolving challenges within the role. For instance, when tasked with producing animations in an unfamiliar program, he drew upon techniques previously learned in Adobe After Effects to acquire proficiency in Adobe Animate rapidly. This adaptability allowed him to deliver animations for Rock AR within a short timeframe.
Throughout the placement, he credited several Purdue Polytechnic faculty members for their support of his growth and development. Instructors, including Michael Cole, Jason Guy, and Josh Polk, guided his development in both graphic design and UI/UX, preparing him for professional opportunities such as this internship.
By combining classroom knowledge with hands-on industry practice, the student advanced his skills in design, animation, and branding. The internship provided not only practical expertise but also tangible evidence of his ability to make meaningful contributions to commercial projects. His role at ROCKaBLOCK demonstrated how academic preparation, professional mentoring, and adaptability can converge to produce outcomes valued by both employers and clients.
