Hello everyone! My name is Nicole Zollino, and I’m one of the newest Eco-Digital Storyteller Mentors for the 2024-2025 NRCA program. I’m currently a senior at UConn, pursuing a BFA in Digital Media & Design with a concentration in 3D Animation. Helping others bring their creative projects to life is something I like to do, and my experience in the Environmental Storytelling course inspired me to take on this mentorship role.

 

Overall, my main strengths are digital animation and illustration. I’ve been drawing since I was a toddler, and my early love for both classic and modern cartoons sparked a strong interest in animation. I began experimenting with animation during my teen years, and my skills have continued to grow throughout my time at UConn. Because it’s something I’m truly passionate about, I also love watching animated projects created by others, especially those by fellow students!

 

 

Most of my experience with the NRCA has been through the aforementioned course. I found it really interesting to learn how to use unique digital media, such as the StoryMaps, to tell meaningful narratives for important causes. Through the class, I learned a lot about environmental issues affecting UConn, such as the pollution of Mirror Lake, which really concerned me. This inspired me to become more invested in helping the high school students address the issues negatively impacting their own school communities.

 

Outside of school and work, my hobbies include biking, editing Wikipedia, playing video games, and listening to music.

 

 

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