Author Bio

Ayiana Baynes is a second year undergraduate student at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She is a Musical Theatre major, as well as a Music minor, who has been accepted into the Community-Oriented Digital Engagement Scholars (CODES) program. Ayiana’s professional interests reside in acting, singing, producing, as well as advocacy. Participation in high school and undergraduate clubs, such as Youth and Government, have played a significant role in shaping her collaborative skills; her numerous years of customer service work, volunteering, club activities, as well as school in general, have also contributed to her ability to adapt to the ever-changing situations she will face in the future. These experiences have also given her the confidence and professional skills needed to thrive in such environments. Regarding Ayiana’s career goals, she isn’t quite set on a specific route. Her passion for this major is reliant on the creative freedom that she has to explore herself and the world around her. So, while her path is currently undecided, she continues to work towards honing her skills, experiencing new ones, and allowing her opportunities to grow alongside her.