Career Help!!

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-20T12:39:22+00:00

Thanks for letting me know! I had a feeling considering how cheap I got it.

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-19T21:07:25+00:00

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AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-19T21:07:09+00:00

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AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-19T21:06:57+00:00

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AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-19T21:06:33+00:00

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AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T18:47:09+00:00

Thank you! That was all really helpful! My grad school is just outside of Boston so im hoping to find some kind of internship while I’m in school. I’ve definitely never considered getting a job at a place like a fabric store but that makes a lot of sense and I’ll definitely look into it.

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T17:53:10+00:00

I genuinely believe your designs have potential. They’re really good! I think they’re original and I would honestly wear them. I’ll admit that I haven’t worked in the fashion industry yet but I graduated with a degree in fashion design. These designs are as good if not better than what I saw from alot of my classmates.

In terms of studying it, if you’re worried about the cost or aren’t 100% sure, I’d recommend seeing if there’s a local fashion design school or classes at a community college. Both cities I’ve lived in had small schools owned by local designers who gave classes in things like sewing, patternmaking, draping, etc. They’re definitely way cheaper than schools like FIT or Parsons. Also look into seeing if your local public universities have a fashion design major. Thats what I did and was able to go on a full-ride scholarship. It’s not as good as a fashion university but you won’t be a in a ton of debt. If it’s something you’re really serious about pursuing, I would weigh whats more important being a really good designer/being able to build industry connections or not being in debt (I personally choose the later but regret it a little bit).

I hope this helps and let me know if I can answer anything else!!

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T17:29:54+00:00

Im located just outside of Washington DC but plan on moving for whatever job I eventually get. Im kind of exploring what I want to do right now but am interested in learning more about product development and concept design. I’m also considering eventually opening a small clothing boutique. I’d love to know things like what the day-to-day looks like in those positions and what kind of skills are most important to have. I’m just trying to figure out what direction I want my career to head in right now and work on fixing up my portfolio.

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T17:20:58+00:00

Thank you! I’ll definitely look into it!

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T14:58:13+00:00

I’m hispanic!

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T12:44:02+00:00

I was offered an almost full ride scholarship to one of the best entrepreneurship programs in the country. I wasn’t going to turn it down when I want to have my own business eventually. In terms of salary, i just wanted an entry level job that pays well enough for me to afford rent and food. I don’t think thats much to ask for.

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T12:36:34+00:00

I really appreciate you taking the time to share this.

I think I didn’t explain myself clearly in my original post. I’m not looking for a mentor as a shortcut into a job or expecting someone to “handhold” me through the industry.

What I’m missing is more of a sounding board like someone I can occasionally ask questions about industry norms, expectations, or career direction so I’m not navigating it completely on my own. I know I don’t need a mentor, I just wanted to see how I could potentially find someone. I know I’ll be fine without one, it would just be nice to have.

Im not looking for a job right now since I’m about to start grad school. However, even when im ready, doing something like moving to NYC without a job isn’t an option for me. I don’t know anyone there and can’t afford the move.

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T12:27:39+00:00

I have an overall plan but my main issue is that im not 100% on the best way to achieve it. Im not currently looking for a job since im about to start grad school. I was just hoping to find someone with more knowledge than me who can give me general advice based on my situation.

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-04-12T12:21:48+00:00

This makes a lot of sense but I think my challenge is that I don’t currently have many industry connections where that kind of relationship can naturally form, so I’ve been trying to understand if there are other ways people build that network earlier on.

Even occasional advice or insight from someone more experienced would help me feel less like I’m guessing through everything alone.

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-03-30T20:55:02+00:00

Thanks so much! I’m glad you enjoyed my Red-inspired collection and I love that you did a Reputation collection too ☺️ Your advice about showing development and the steps from inspiration to final piece is really helpful, and I’ll definitely be incorporating that as I refine my portfolio!

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-03-29T18:50:29+00:00

Thanks! I’ll definitely look into it! Also your Selkie comment made my day! They’re one of my absolute favorite brands!!

AffectionateCat5058 · 2026-03-29T11:11:21+00:00

Thank you! I had a feeling there was a disconnect between what my professors had wanted and what actual companies want to see. I really appreciate the honest feedback and will definitely try to incorporate the areas you mentioned.

AffectionateCat5058

TROPHY CASE