From the start of my college experience at FSU, I made it a priority to be career-driven and make the best out of the opportunities I was offered. I knew the fashion industry was competitive and was determined to optimize my time here. As a result of this, I quickly built a relationship with my professors and the Career Services and Employer Relations Office. During my freshman year I was introduced to the Suitable Solutions Program, a program through which students meet with FSU's career counselors and learn to write a resume, participate in mock interviews with actual corporate recruiters, and network with prospective employers at the yearly mock-tail party. There is no doubt in my mind that the program gave me the necessary skills and confidence to pursue internships and become a leader in the classroom. Shortly after the completing the program, I landed my first internship through Handshake, FSU's career and internship search platform! I am so grateful for the resources FSU offers, including internship funding, like I received.

Today I look back at my freshman self and little did I know that FSU would become a place of discovery, growth and opportunity. As I enter my senior year, I hope to continue to have the same mentality I had in my early years. I thank the Fashion Department for cultivating all of my talents and believing in me as the future of fashion. What a pleasure it has been to be a part of this community and serve on the Fashion Student Board for Accepted Students Day, work alongside encouraging classmates, and learn from such dedicated professors!