IUPUI Media Arts and Science student nabs prestigious Smithsonian internship
April 15, 2008
The Smithsonian Institution’s Office of Photographic Services has selected Leana Kruska, a senior majoring in Media Arts and Science (MAS), for a summer internship in electronic imaging. The Louisville, KY native will spend about three months in Washington D.C. preparing electronic copies of historic photos for use by historians, documentary film makers, and the general public.
Kruska credits Beth Lykins, MAS lecturer, and Brian Benedict, IUPUI Informatics student services associate, with helping her land the highly sought after internship.
“I have a love of photography, and both educational and professional experience in electronic imaging. This internship will be the culmination of my undergraduate studies at IUPUI,” said Kruska.
Kruska, who is currently enrolled in an independent study in advanced Photoshop techniques, plans to pursue a career in public/educational television, or other creative educational media.
“I have greatly enjoyed working as a freelancer for WFYI public television for two years, primarily in the graphics department, and occasionally as an associate producer and production assistant,” said Kruska. “I started out as an intern, and made great connections. I hope the Smithsonian internship will be a similar experience, perhaps leading to a job after I graduate.”
Kruska says the Media Arts and Science program helped her identify career goals, then equipping her to achieve them.
“I am a true believer in the power of internships. I have had such great opportunities to take the skills I’ve learned in the classroom, and apply them professionally. I highly recommend internships to all fellow MAS majors,” she added.
She points to a class taught by Career Services Director Beth Haggenjos for which Kruska conducted informational interviews with industry professionals.
“I interviewed someone who worked for public television and someone who worked for The Smithsonian. I find it amazing that by the time I graduate, I will have worked for both!” exclaimed Kruska.
Kruska, who will graduate in December, says she’s always wanted to work for an institution like the Smithsonian, and that she’s looking forward to exploring the culture and history of Washington, D.C.
“This is exactly what I had hoped to gain from my degree; it's so much more than a piece of paper. I identified a career that I am passionate about, and IUPUI has made it possible,” said Kruska.
