Nico Clinefelter, a 2017 graduate of the Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (EASTERN) Commercial Art program and Springfield Township High School, recently completed a four-month long-term substitute position as the Arts, AV and Business Occupational Aide, in EASTERN’s Design, Photography, and Illustration program, all while pursuing his art degree. In this role, he assisted his former instructor, Ms. Nicole Abruzzi, the Design, Photography, and Illustration Instructor.

Nico’s true passion is art. “I wanted to be a photographer since I was about 8 years old,” said Nico. “After visiting EASTERN on the Tenth Grade Career Expo visit and seeing the classroom and program, I decided to enroll in Commercial Art.”

Nico’s journey reflects his ability to adapt and persevere. After graduating from EASTERN and Springfield Township High School, he pursued a nontraditional college path. He initially enrolled at the Antonelli Institute, which closed shortly before he was set to begin classes. Undeterred, Nico pivoted quickly, attending the Art Institute of Philadelphia for two quarters before choosing to build a career as a freelance graphic designer and photographer.

During the pandemic, Nico recognized a desire to return to school and complete his art degree. He attended several community colleges, piecing together coursework toward his associate’s degree. He is currently a Fine Art major at Montgomery County Community College, where he is completing his associate’s degree, and plans to attend the Pennsylvania College of Art and Design this fall to earn his bachelor’s degree in Illustration.

Nico began working at EASTERN as an on-call substitute teacher in 2024 after moving back to the area. His mother had seen a Facebook post noting that EASTERN was seeking substitute teachers and encouraged him to apply. “I absolutely loved my time at EASTERN, and I wanted to give that experience back to incoming students, even if I was only here a few days a year,” said Nico.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time here at EASTERN,” he added. “I always told myself that if I ever became a teacher, it would be in the Design, Photography, and Illustration program at EASTERN. Being an EASTERN grad, who is continuing their education in the field, I want to be able to share my experiences with those on the same journey.”

“Attending EASTERN was legitimately the best decision I’ve made, and I tell my students this,” said Nico. “Because of everything I learned in the Commercial Art program, I felt equipped to explore different career options, both in and out of school. It gave me well-rounded knowledge of many different facets of the commercial art world. I’ve worked as a designer, photographer, and illustrator, and because of the foundation I gained at EASTERN, I was able to be successful.”