Undergraduate /
My working experience in New York - FIT Fashion Merchandising, from The Netherlands. [11]
I asked my old boss at the christy rilling studio to help me also write my essay and I made up this new essay, I hope this improved!
I could see the disappointment in their eyes.
I told my parents I wanted to quit high school and attend the fashion design school in a city an hour away. They instantly said, "No", as I was only two years away from graduating. In my heart, I felt that this was the best decision for me.
I enrolled in a four-year program with a new internship opportunity every year, learning a great deal about the garment industry. At Marcha Hüskes, I had the opportunity to go to Paris Fashion Week where I received a first-hand experience on the international merchandising industry as we were in Paris to sell the collection at a trade show. I was also fortunate enough to participate in a national fashion design competition, MAFB, showing two collections (eight looks each) and was thrilled to learn I won the second prize. The same year I was named "Pearl of the school" at my school -a yearly reward to the most outstanding student. Each year I find myself pushing myself harder-to be better. For this reason I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and move to New York City.
18 March 2013, I hugged my family goodbye and said hello to my New York City adventure. After exploring the city and getting adjusted, I was ready to start my internship at Rebecca Minkoff. In the three months there, I observed what it takes to be a fashion designer at a large company and after a few experiences in the office, I realised this environment was not where I wanted to be.
During the 2013 Met Gala, I worked with a friend assisting Christy Rilling. I expressed my feelings about my internship at Rebecca Minkoff and Christy immediately opened her studio doors inviting me to finish my internship at her company. Working with Christy Rilling Studio was a dream experience. I assisted tailors on photo shoots (Elle, Lane Bryant, Condé Nast, and more) and learned about the ins and outs of the fashion industry on a very hands-on level. Sourcing fabrics for clients, pattern making, draping and organising invoicing receipts. The most rewarding experience was working alongside Christy on Lena Dunham's first Vogue cover, shot by Annie Leibovitz.
Working for a few different design companies made me realize that fashion, at its core, a business. I am confident in my fashion design background but know that the business aspect of this industry is where I need to focus and were my interest lies. I would love to be part of the Merchandising Management program at FIT as the website describes it as "a challenging and rewarding career that combines creative skills and analytical thinking." I would love to flex my analytical muscles and discover all aspects of this side of the fashion industry. I believe my strong leadership and communication skills will be a positive addition to FIT's program.
..Five years later, with their initial reluctant support, transitioning into fashion is the best decision my family and I have made.
