By Fatima Magana '22

ALLIANCE -- Art major Michael Cline ’26 has developed a passion for the business field working alongside Michael Kachilla, professor of management, to gain real-world experience by taking on local Alliance business Nest on State as a client.

This past summer, Cline worked alongside the owners of Nest on State, a gift shop offering an assortment of items for the community, in redesigning the company’s logo and offering fresh animations and videos for product promotion.

Michael Cline '26 (right) with the owners of Nest on State, Phillip and Sarah Mastroianni

“Working with a client has taught me things that sitting in a classroom cannot,” said Cline. “I have learned about licensing and trademark laws as well as gained networking skills working alongside the owners of Nest on State.”

Sarah Mastroianni, buyer and merchandiser for the business explained that working with Cline on rebranding the business educated her on the importance of brand identity and how to implement skills to better her store. Mastroianni described Cline’s work as “original” and “professional.”

One of Cline's '26 projects for the business

Cline’s established portfolio includes participation in Raider Tank and ArtFest, both hosted every fall semester on Mount Union’s campus. He is also aiming to expand his skillset and gain more real-world project experience.

“Beau Gannon, director of career development in the Center for Student Success connected me with Sarah Mastroianni to begin working with her and the business rebrand,” said Cline.

Cline's '26 rebranding project

Cline explained that without the Center for Student Success’ help, he would not have built a portfolio with a local business. Cline defined the center’s guidance as instrumental because connecting him with Nest on State has impacted his career immensely.

Cline’s project repertoire has expanded since he began his collegiate career at Mount Union thanks to the skills he has enhanced and the network he has built. Check out his unique portfolio of work here.