Graphic Design Student Gains Real-World Experience at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

North Central State College graphic design student Noah Vandyne turned his classroom skills into real-world experience this summer through an internship at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, designing and assembling a display for the historic racing venue.

“When I started, we were going through a warehouse full of old posters and memorabilia, figuring out how to use them. I got to sketch the design layout for how everything would come together,” Vandyne said. Working alongside the Mid-Ohio team, Vandyne helped plan the layout, select materials, and bring the display to life. Once completed, he had the opportunity to engage with visitors during race weekends. “My favorite part was being at the races,” he said. “I took my camera and got some great photos. It was cool meeting people who knew so much about the track’s history.”

Vandyne said the experience gave him a new understanding of how organizations operate. “I learned how a bigger company works and how everyone comes together to get things done,” he said. “I thought it might be intimidating, but everyone was really nice and supportive.”

Vandyne credits his mother, a former photographer and web designer, for sparking his passion for visual art. “My mom was a photographer, and she did a lot of wedding photos,” he said. “She’s the reason I got interested in photography and design in the first place.” Following in her footsteps, Vandyne chose to major in graphic design at North Central State College, where he’s gained experience with Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and other design tools.

He said his professors have been instrumental in helping him develop his skills. “All of my professors have been great,” he said. “Morgan Baker, especially—she’s awesome. I couldn’t recommend her classes enough.”

As a Choose Ohio First scholarship recipient, Vandyne said financial assistance has allowed him to focus more on his studies and less on work hours. “It’s really helped me,” he said. “Without the scholarship, I’d probably have to work more, which would make it harder to keep up with classes.”

Vandyne is on track to graduate this spring and has already begun doing freelance photography projects. He hopes to continue developing his career after graduation—either through freelance work or with a design company. Through his internship, Vandyne says he gained confidence and valuable insight into his future field.

“Don’t be nervous going into an internship,” he advised other students. “Everyone knows you’re there to learn, and most people just want to help you succeed.”