From initiating an Animation Club on campus to blending storytelling with digital media at Nevada Dining, Julius Santo Pietro, a senior at the University of Nevada, Reno, has evidently brought his creative flair to the University.  

Julius's journey with Nevada Dining started in 2021 when he discovered the internship opportunity during a job fair at the Joe Crowley Student Union. Drawn by the prospect of working with Adobe products and gaining hands-on experience in his field, he joined the team. Initially focused on videography, his role has shifted to graphic design to meet the demands of the growing events hosted by Nevada Dining. 

From distributing lemonade carts during scorching summer days to hosting DIY cooking activities at the dining hall, Julius is committed to creating positive memories for fellow students. He shared that his favorite aspect of the job is the opportunity to engage with students directly, organizing events to boost morale and enhance the overall college experience.  

“I remember a very specific day my freshman year when Nevada Dining held a corn hole and giant Jenga tournament during lunch, and I thought how awesome that experience was," Santo Pietro said. "Now, I have the opportunity to play a significant role in creating similar experiences for fellow students." 

Beyond his contributions to enhancing campus life, Julius has one profound passion that he turned from a hobby into a full-blown organization: animation. In 2022, Julius started the Animation Club and has evolved it into a space for members to share their artwork. Meeting every Friday at the Lilley Museum, the club has become a haven for fostering a sense of community among art enthusiasts. 

“We come together not just to create but to foster a sense of togetherness and celebrate the diverse forms of art that unite us all,” Santo Pietro said.  

Julis is committed to realizing one of his goals before graduating in 2024 – hosting an artwork fundraiser where members of the club can showcase their work while contributing to a charitable cause.  

Looking ahead to life after graduation, Julius is driven by a lifelong passion project – a story he's been developing since 2016. His dream is to transform this narrative into a game, blending his love for storytelling and animation with his digital media skills. 

When asked about a dessert based on his passion, Julius envisions animated cookies, each portraying different slides of emotion reminiscent of stick figure animations from the internet age. Action lines made of sprinkles would serve as the perfect side, adding a whimsical touch to the meal. 

Julius' animated frame cookies

The Nevada Dining internship, along with establishing the Animation Club, has not only enriched Julius’ academic journey but has also allowed him to contribute to the campus community through his creative endeavors. Julius embodies the spirit of a student pursuing his passion while leaving a meaningful mark on campus life.