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Madison
Student
Kent, Ohio
1
Question
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How do I make connections within the fashion industry while in college to set myself up for success after graduation?
I am 19 and currently studying fashion design as a sophomore at Kent State University. I would really like to find a job/internship to jumpstart my career and resume in preparation to graduate. Do you have any advice on how to make connections with people in the industry, while preparing to apply for internships and future jobs?
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2 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
2521
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Madison !
It is really cool that you are at Kent State studying Fashion Design ! That sounds great !
You probably are aware of this, but just as a reminder, at Kent State you will be required to complete an internship and a Study Away experience in places like New York City, Florence, Italy, Hong Kong and London, so it is my opinion that you should focus on your projects and class assignments right now. You'll be having fashion experiences soon enough. There is a time and place to start your career and during the learning and getting experience process is definitely not the time. Kent State has a very strong fashion design program, the college is well-ranked in general and it would be daunting to not focus on getting your degree first as you'd have to quit college to pursue a full fledged professional career as a Fashion Designer. Especially when your specific program has built-in opportunities. And contacting fashion houses now will not "jump start" your career.
So you have two choices if you really, really want to "jump start" being a professional Fashion Designer. Your first choice to consider is to follow through with your Sophomore, Junior and Senior years and obtain your Bachelors Degree in Fashion Design. Create projects during this time that will help you create a professional line and brand which you will need to know how to do by being taught by professional fashion professors. During this time, you have no idea who you will meet, who will love your styles and what opportunities you will have that will be a great learning experience. After graduation, you can then network, attend the shows and fashion weeks, mingle and network and put your band out there. Since you don't yet know how to network, this shows that this option will be best for you as there's a lot to learn for this career. You can't secure or "set yourself up" while being a student.
The other choice you have is to quit college (which I do not recommend), which means you will miss out on part of your sophomore, junior and senior year, have no college degree and you'll have to do everything on your own. The travel, the expense, attending parties, fashion shows, looking for openings at fashion houses for designers, choose the appropriate models to showcase your clothing, producing your own fashion shows and learning where the fashion community is in whatever city you want to work in. You'll have your hands full and totally focused on fashion to get you and your brand known. You will constantly be reaching out and not have the availability of a possible mentor that you could have acquired through college. You'll also have less supports that Kent State does offer as well as the Fashion Department there.
It's easy to be anxious to start a career, I do understand that. I really want to emphasize that you won't be on a waiting list at random fashion companies for after you graduate. You have to go through the process which is very worthwhile, or take things step by step without thinking of three years from now. Similar to my career, this is an opinion business and based on who knows who sometimes, so it's best to focus on the opportunities you have now and let things happen as they happen. The choice is up to you.
So I hope this sheds some insight on what may be the best thing to do, where your mindset is best in gear to and I hope that you will consider this advice. I wish you all the best !
It is really cool that you are at Kent State studying Fashion Design ! That sounds great !
You probably are aware of this, but just as a reminder, at Kent State you will be required to complete an internship and a Study Away experience in places like New York City, Florence, Italy, Hong Kong and London, so it is my opinion that you should focus on your projects and class assignments right now. You'll be having fashion experiences soon enough. There is a time and place to start your career and during the learning and getting experience process is definitely not the time. Kent State has a very strong fashion design program, the college is well-ranked in general and it would be daunting to not focus on getting your degree first as you'd have to quit college to pursue a full fledged professional career as a Fashion Designer. Especially when your specific program has built-in opportunities. And contacting fashion houses now will not "jump start" your career.
So you have two choices if you really, really want to "jump start" being a professional Fashion Designer. Your first choice to consider is to follow through with your Sophomore, Junior and Senior years and obtain your Bachelors Degree in Fashion Design. Create projects during this time that will help you create a professional line and brand which you will need to know how to do by being taught by professional fashion professors. During this time, you have no idea who you will meet, who will love your styles and what opportunities you will have that will be a great learning experience. After graduation, you can then network, attend the shows and fashion weeks, mingle and network and put your band out there. Since you don't yet know how to network, this shows that this option will be best for you as there's a lot to learn for this career. You can't secure or "set yourself up" while being a student.
The other choice you have is to quit college (which I do not recommend), which means you will miss out on part of your sophomore, junior and senior year, have no college degree and you'll have to do everything on your own. The travel, the expense, attending parties, fashion shows, looking for openings at fashion houses for designers, choose the appropriate models to showcase your clothing, producing your own fashion shows and learning where the fashion community is in whatever city you want to work in. You'll have your hands full and totally focused on fashion to get you and your brand known. You will constantly be reaching out and not have the availability of a possible mentor that you could have acquired through college. You'll also have less supports that Kent State does offer as well as the Fashion Department there.
It's easy to be anxious to start a career, I do understand that. I really want to emphasize that you won't be on a waiting list at random fashion companies for after you graduate. You have to go through the process which is very worthwhile, or take things step by step without thinking of three years from now. Similar to my career, this is an opinion business and based on who knows who sometimes, so it's best to focus on the opportunities you have now and let things happen as they happen. The choice is up to you.
So I hope this sheds some insight on what may be the best thing to do, where your mindset is best in gear to and I hope that you will consider this advice. I wish you all the best !
Chiquria Willis
Loan Processor - Rocket Mortgage
94
Answers
Dearborn Heights, Michigan
Updated
Chiquria’s Answer
It's fantastic that you're already thinking ahead about building connections in the fashion industry while still in college—this can really boost your career! Here are some simple and effective tips to help you network and get ready for opportunities:
**How to Build Connections in the Fashion Industry While in College**
**Use Your University Resources:**
- **Career Services:** Check out Kent State’s career center for resume help, job fairs, and fashion-specific internship listings.
- **Faculty & Alumni:** Professors often have industry contacts that can lead to internships or mentors. Alumni networks are also great—connect with them on LinkedIn or through university platforms.
- **Fashion Clubs & Organizations:** Join or lead fashion-related student groups on campus to meet peers and professionals who share your interests.
**Attend Industry Events:**
- Look for local and national fashion shows, trade shows, networking mixers, and conferences. Events like Fashion Week in NYC or other cities are perfect for networking. Many offer student discounts or volunteer spots.
- Enter design competitions or showcases to get noticed by industry insiders.
**Use Social Media Wisely:**
- Follow and engage with fashion brands, designers, and industry influencers on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter. Comment thoughtfully, share your work, and use these platforms to show off your portfolio and projects.
- Join fashion-related groups on LinkedIn or Facebook where professionals share opportunities and advice.
**Internships & Part-Time Roles:**
- Apply early and widely for internships—both local and remote. Hands-on experience will help you build credibility and expand your network.
- Consider retail or assistant roles at fashion boutiques; these offer valuable industry exposure and contacts.
**Informational Interviews:**
- Reach out to professionals you admire and ask for a short informational interview (via phone or video). Learn about their career path and get advice for starting out. Many people are happy to share insights if you ask respectfully.
**Build & Showcase a Strong Portfolio:**
- Keep your portfolio updated with school projects, freelance work, or personal designs. A polished portfolio impresses potential employers and contacts.
**Networking Etiquette:**
- Always follow up with a thank-you note after meeting someone or after interviews. Be genuine, professional, and respectful of their time.
**Additional Tips:**
- Start preparing application materials early: resume, cover letters tailored to fashion roles, references, and a digital portfolio.
- Keep track of contacts and conversations to maintain relationships over time.
You're already on a great path by recognizing the importance of networking!
Good luck, and keep chasing your dreams!
**How to Build Connections in the Fashion Industry While in College**
**Use Your University Resources:**
- **Career Services:** Check out Kent State’s career center for resume help, job fairs, and fashion-specific internship listings.
- **Faculty & Alumni:** Professors often have industry contacts that can lead to internships or mentors. Alumni networks are also great—connect with them on LinkedIn or through university platforms.
- **Fashion Clubs & Organizations:** Join or lead fashion-related student groups on campus to meet peers and professionals who share your interests.
**Attend Industry Events:**
- Look for local and national fashion shows, trade shows, networking mixers, and conferences. Events like Fashion Week in NYC or other cities are perfect for networking. Many offer student discounts or volunteer spots.
- Enter design competitions or showcases to get noticed by industry insiders.
**Use Social Media Wisely:**
- Follow and engage with fashion brands, designers, and industry influencers on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter. Comment thoughtfully, share your work, and use these platforms to show off your portfolio and projects.
- Join fashion-related groups on LinkedIn or Facebook where professionals share opportunities and advice.
**Internships & Part-Time Roles:**
- Apply early and widely for internships—both local and remote. Hands-on experience will help you build credibility and expand your network.
- Consider retail or assistant roles at fashion boutiques; these offer valuable industry exposure and contacts.
**Informational Interviews:**
- Reach out to professionals you admire and ask for a short informational interview (via phone or video). Learn about their career path and get advice for starting out. Many people are happy to share insights if you ask respectfully.
**Build & Showcase a Strong Portfolio:**
- Keep your portfolio updated with school projects, freelance work, or personal designs. A polished portfolio impresses potential employers and contacts.
**Networking Etiquette:**
- Always follow up with a thank-you note after meeting someone or after interviews. Be genuine, professional, and respectful of their time.
**Additional Tips:**
- Start preparing application materials early: resume, cover letters tailored to fashion roles, references, and a digital portfolio.
- Keep track of contacts and conversations to maintain relationships over time.
You're already on a great path by recognizing the importance of networking!
Good luck, and keep chasing your dreams!