It really gets to me when people try to tell me that having a career in fashion is just a ‘hobby’ and that I’ll never get anywhere with it. First of all, no, it’s not just a hobby to me. I don’t read about fashion on my spare time, I read about it whenever I can. I don’t draw sketches when I’m bored, I draw wherever I can find a pencil and a piece of paper to draw against. And secondly, there are a lot more options to chose from in the fashion industry than people think. To me, it’s not just about making clothes and selling them to customers, it’s much more than that.
I may not be saving lives or inventing the newest gadget and I may not be making six figures but being able to create clothes for people and help them dress better is my way of giving back. The reward of making someone happy through fashion means much more to me and gives me much more satisfaction than money can ever give.
I hate feeling like I’m being micromanaged - I don’t like the feeling of being restricted.
I think if you want the best results from people, you have to give them freedom.
On my own
I learned that if you want to achieve your dreams, you’re going to have to walk alone sometimes and you’re going to have to get used to people doubting you. Unfortunately, that may even mean your own family and friends.
It’s sad in a sense because they are the people you would expect to support you the most. Obviously they only want the best for you, but who’s to say that their way is the best way for yourself? Finding your place in the world means finding your own path. Your family and friends can only guide you a certain way but it’s ultimately up to you to figure your life out.
“You can’t go into thinking that those who judge you are always right. Do not let anyone define you.”
- Mickey Drexler, CEO of J.Crew
When I think about it
It’s almost surreal to me how I got this internship. I made a Top 5 list of who I wanted to intern for and this company was on it. I got a maybe from one but a definite yes from someone feels so great. I never thought I would get this, I didn’t expect it at all.
I’m just a girl from Georgia with big dreams. It’s exciting knowing that this opportunity is a stepping stone to them.
I’m just getting started.
I spent my entire Spring Break applying for Fashion Internships in New York and Los Angeles - a total of 33 to be exact. That means 33 different résumés and cover letters. Also, I’m sending out 9 of those in the mail first thing in the morning on Monday.
As weird as it sounds, I found the whole process to be exciting. I’m hungry for an opportunity. I’m really hoping and praying to the (fashion) gods that I get an internship this summer.
Random: I drew a little tiger on my list. Isn’t he cute?
