Community Spotlight: Nicole Bayne
Name: Nicole
School & Major: The University of the Arts, majoring in graphic design
What are your plans after college? I don’t have any specific plans in mind yet, but I would like to maybe do some freelance design work before settling down somewhere, and looking into working at a design agency or a media company.
What would be your dream job? I hope to be continuing with graphic design, eventually become a creative director and get to work alongside a future design team.
Why did you want to intern at the American Autism Association?
I knew that interning here would be a perfect fit for me because of my unique perspective and personal experiences with neurodiversity. At a very young age I was diagnosed with ADHD, and Selective Mutism (a type of social anxiety disorder), so I have always been able to relate to a lot of the same challenges that individuals with autism face everyday. ADHD and social anxiety are oftentimes comorbid with ASD, meaning that if you have autism it is likely that you may also have one of the other disorders as well. One of the reasons why I am passionate about helping others is because I know what it’s like to struggle with friendships, and how hard it can be to even just communicate in social settings at times. I am hoping that throughout this internship, I will be able to use my creative abilities to increase visibility of the organization, spread more overall awareness about autism, and help others find a sense of community so they don’t feel alone.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Spending time in nature, going to concerts, hanging out with friends and pets!
What’s been your favorite class in college and why?
Aside from my graphic design courses, I really enjoyed taking Art Therapy. I have always had an interest in both art and psychology, so taking this class was a really great way to combine the two!
What are you most looking forward to after graduation?
I am most excited about finding somewhere to settle down, becoming more independent, and having more time to focus on my career as a designer and artist.
How do you like your coffee (or tea)?
French vanilla cream is a necessity for my coffee, but I also love all kinds of herbal teas!
Where is your dream vacation?
I would love to travel to Amsterdam one day and visit the tulip fields.