2 answers
1
Question
Asked
1445 views
What are the best strategies for networking and building meaningful connections in the fashion industry while still in school, while also developing a standout portfolio to increase my chances of landing top internships or jobs after graduation? Additionally, how can I effectively balance full-time studies with part-time work in a field like fashion design?
I’m attending FIT for Fashion Design, starting with my associate’s program and planning to pursue a bachelor's afterward. As an out-of-state student, I’ll be moving to New York and need to balance my studies with part-time work to support myself. I’m particularly interested in learning how to network effectively in New York’s competitive fashion scene. Given that it’s such a fast-paced and connected industry, what are the best ways to make meaningful connections with professionals, fellow students, and potential mentors while navigating school and a part-time job? Any tips for attending fashion events, internships, or utilizing NYC's fashion resources would be greatly appreciated! #Spring25
Login to comment
2 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Amaiya !
I am delighted to provide some advice for your lovely education plans! You'll be going to the same school my cousin went to and she had a wonderful career in Fashion Merchandising (I only say "had" because we're old now, LOL).
So, your question is great because you're focusing on Networking and Working which are two very important elements for this career, but it'll be easy - you'll be in Manhattan and it's not as hard as people may think. Let's talk about the work part of your question first.
Keep in mind that FIT is a school that will have you busy all day, projects, classroom lectures and exams, etc. Considering this, the best way for you to work will be through a Work Study Program which you apply for on your Federal Student Financial Aid form. You will be able to work at the school and that in itself is a Networking experience. The Federal Student Financial Aid program pays you, not the school and you can set your own hours, very flexible.
A second way to make additional money while working Work Study would be to advertise yourself as a seamstress and take in mending or alterations from customers. Get business cards made and go to the upper East Side and anywhere else and leave your card at places where people do that. Take a couple of weeks to adjust to your school schedule first before venturing into any extra work activity. Fashion Design is a very busy major so you'll want to give school priority and after the first year, you'll know how it goes.
As for Networking, your best opportunity for it will come right there at FIT. Make very close connections with your professors and classmates. There's going to be a lot of information you're going to hear about Fashion Week, Fashion Shows, events, activities and so may other things. These will all be great opportunities to network. You'll need to let things happen episodically and not try to overload yourself. Approach this gently, giving yourself space to adjust to your new schedule and lifestyle. The absolute best connections will come to you when you don't plan them.
The cool fabric shop in Manhattan is Mood which you probably have heard of. Go there to buy fabric or sewing supplies and leave some of your business cards there if they do that. Mood is at 225 West 37th Street between 7th and 8th Avenue in the Garment District. It's good to be seen there, but remember that you can buy inexpensive supplies at thrift stores, too.
Networking is not going to be hard for this career, especially if you just let things flow naturally and don't start adding things to a schedule you're not familiar with yet. The better your professors get to know you and your work, the more chances for opportunity you will have. Remember - focus on school, hear what they want you to do and let everything happen as it will.
I wish you all the best - enjoy every minute of FIT !
I am delighted to provide some advice for your lovely education plans! You'll be going to the same school my cousin went to and she had a wonderful career in Fashion Merchandising (I only say "had" because we're old now, LOL).
So, your question is great because you're focusing on Networking and Working which are two very important elements for this career, but it'll be easy - you'll be in Manhattan and it's not as hard as people may think. Let's talk about the work part of your question first.
Keep in mind that FIT is a school that will have you busy all day, projects, classroom lectures and exams, etc. Considering this, the best way for you to work will be through a Work Study Program which you apply for on your Federal Student Financial Aid form. You will be able to work at the school and that in itself is a Networking experience. The Federal Student Financial Aid program pays you, not the school and you can set your own hours, very flexible.
A second way to make additional money while working Work Study would be to advertise yourself as a seamstress and take in mending or alterations from customers. Get business cards made and go to the upper East Side and anywhere else and leave your card at places where people do that. Take a couple of weeks to adjust to your school schedule first before venturing into any extra work activity. Fashion Design is a very busy major so you'll want to give school priority and after the first year, you'll know how it goes.
As for Networking, your best opportunity for it will come right there at FIT. Make very close connections with your professors and classmates. There's going to be a lot of information you're going to hear about Fashion Week, Fashion Shows, events, activities and so may other things. These will all be great opportunities to network. You'll need to let things happen episodically and not try to overload yourself. Approach this gently, giving yourself space to adjust to your new schedule and lifestyle. The absolute best connections will come to you when you don't plan them.
The cool fabric shop in Manhattan is Mood which you probably have heard of. Go there to buy fabric or sewing supplies and leave some of your business cards there if they do that. Mood is at 225 West 37th Street between 7th and 8th Avenue in the Garment District. It's good to be seen there, but remember that you can buy inexpensive supplies at thrift stores, too.
Networking is not going to be hard for this career, especially if you just let things flow naturally and don't start adding things to a schedule you're not familiar with yet. The better your professors get to know you and your work, the more chances for opportunity you will have. Remember - focus on school, hear what they want you to do and let everything happen as it will.
I wish you all the best - enjoy every minute of FIT !
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Hi Amaiya! I love networking by asking interesting questions. When you show people you care about their thoughts, they’ll care about yours too. Try to ask questions that are a bit different from the usual ones. This will make you memorable along with your unique questions. Also, stay curious about both their work stories and fun personal tales. This helps build connections through shared experiences. Keep an open mind when meeting someone new; you might find you have more in common than you expected. Good luck! :)