BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
Anika has wanted to be an artist for as long as she can remember. In middle school, she vividly recalls deciding to be a graphic designer. Now she is a senior at Ball State University majoring in Visual Communication and an intern at Young & Laramore. At Ball State, she has spent two semesters as a Team Lead for Studio 165+, the award-winning student-led design studio. To Anika, design combines her love of problem-solving and art. She enjoys making things that have a purpose, so seeing her designs in use is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the field. When she’s not in the design studio, you can find her in the kitchen. Anika loves to experiment with recipes and photograph food. One day, she would love to publish her own cookbook, producing everything from the recipes to the photography and layout. Anika is also a self-proclaimed “travel addict” because she grew up exploring new places with her family. She has been to 45 of the 50 states and has lived in 5. Her innate curiosity inspires her to continue to travel and explore new places.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
I’m inspired by problems. Whether it’s a failed recipe, a ring stuck in a drain, or creating a compelling design, I want to understand the situation and find the best way to solve it.
WHAT AREA OR AREAS OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?
I enjoy Branding and Advertising.
WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?
The way you present your work is just as important as the work itself.
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?
I look up to people who aren’t afraid to do things differently. Those who are curious, driven, and optimistic.
WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?
The Doctor’s Farmacy and How I Built This are some podcasts I like. Casey Neistat’s videos are my favorite to watch, as his ability to tell a story is unmatched.