Why I Want to Connect My Life with Fashion Industry

Fashion is proof of human evolution. The industry now more than ever is recognizing the need for diversity and is embracing its wider meaning, that until recently referred largely to race. However there are on-going debates and discussion on whether this will last or is just the effect of a “diversity drag”. Studying this course will better prepare me to contribute in making the movement more permanent by emphasizing the power in authentic representation and greater inclusivity behind the scenes and not just in front of the camera. I am also applying for this course because I’m interested in handling the business of fashion instead of going down the design route.

Unpredictable and constantly shifting direction. The role of fashion has expanded and been redefined over the years. It is no longer just a reflection of our personalities but now an instrument to express political and social beliefs. I especially admire designers like Olivier Rousteing, creative director of Balmain, who are giving fashion a new vision, paving the way to a more inclusive future.

The industry is attracting a new genre of fashion professionals. Roles overlap and complement each other, making networking and teamwork vital. Among my academic achievements are best overall team, challenge team and collaborative writer at the regional round of the World Scholar’s Cup. This demonstrates that I am team player. I was also a coordinator of the graduation ceremony for the class of 2017 at my school. This responsibility helped me develop time management skills. Coming from a diverse background myself and attending a school with a global student body has definitely made me more culturally and socially aware.

I have a learning ability of very high caliber and an eagerness to widen my capabilities which will be of use in keeping up with the fast paced nature of the fashion industry. Having studied business and economics for both my IGCSE and A levels and even going on to win Student of the year for Economics in 2016 , has made me confident in developing soft transferable skills such as analytical and problem-solving skills as well as the ability to predict economically-oriented events. These skills will not only help me excel in the course but also with my intended career path in fashion buying which has to do with predicting trends. Being awarded Best Writer for Psychology and Best Speaker also at the regional round of the World Scholar’s Cup in 2014, shows that I have excellent verbal and presentation skills. The skills I acquired from studying IT for my A levels will make me capable in keeping up with the technological aspect of the course.

I believe that it is important to take initiatives when it comes to personal development. I take pride in being a self-learner. This will help me adjust to university life smoothly since independent study constitutes more than teaching and lectures at university. Completing the bronze level of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award has given me confidence to approach challenges confidently and head on.

I have decided to take a gap year to focus on my personal evolution and better prepare myself for the course and life after graduation. I think being multilingual gives a person a competitive edge and upper hand in this industry. Therefore I intend to improve my fluency in French now and then pick up another language at university. I also plan to take short courses in fashion marketing, photography and other courses in order to improve and expand my skills set.

Vintage clothing has become a key look. I believe that trends never really die but are reborn. I like to apply this thought to my closet and carry out personal DIY projects during my spare time. Doing yoga over the weekend has helped my concentration, attention span and the way I handle stress. Reading articles published by the Business of Fashion (BOF) definitely gives me a brief insight.

As an international student I want to study in the UK because the courses offered focus on the chosen specialism unlike in other countries where general education is included in the degree. At the moment I have fashion buying in mind as a career path. However I would like to study this course to avoid overspecializing and keep my future options open. I think having all-round knowledge about the various roles and processes of the entire fashion chain are important.

There is power in celebrating our differences. There Tunnel vision is a step backwards.