30/03/2020
It is my last semester of college. Should I do a master's or pick up a job? A question that many fashion grads ask me during our consulting sessions.
A LinkedIn connection also asked me this question a few days back.
This indeed is an interesting question, especially when so many options are available, that one can easily get confused. The first thing I ask is: what is the reason, why you would like to take up the course?
Many believe that having a higher or master's degree represents a direct, almost predictable, access to working in the world of fashion.
Here is what I think fashion graduates should do:
Choosing what to do next should be based on your career goals, any education, experience, portfolio, graduation project and exposure when aligned to the career goals delivers a much satisfactory result. Your career goals are based on your strengths, career interest and the uniqueness that you bring on the table to create value for the industry.
Once you know the above, it is easy to make the right decision. Not knowing the same and just making a decision based on others' journeys and advice can cost a lot both in terms of energy, money and time.
I would suggest you make informed decisions which will help you to create a successful career.
Here are some additional tips and advice that you can follow:
1. Experience > Degree
Getting a degree is good. However, it isn't all that matters. Numerous fashion graduates think their degree gives them the eligibility to find the right position. Businesses have moved from 'where did you go to school' to 'what you have achieved' or 'what can you bring on table' mindset. A degree is good; but not great. You need to have a 'relevant' internship, a portfolio and a graduation project to stand out. You need to put your won work and show real passion to see the results.
2. Don't just network, connect with a purpose.
While the idiom, "It's not what you know; it's whom you know" isn't immaculate guidance, there's some reality to it. At the point when you're going up against similar alumni with perfect GPAs and esteemed schools on their resumes, the ideal approach to slice through the group is merely knowing the right people in your niche, who can mentor you and refer you to the right opportunities in the industry.
3. Build a relevant portfolio:
Having a portfolio is not enough, you need to ensure that the portfolio is 'relevant' and has a selection of only your best work. Even if it is few. Quality of your work shows your passion and your capability. Create portfolios that are relevant for the roles that you want to get into. A very generic portfolio is good to look at but fetches no attention.
4. Take part in as many projects as possible:
Fashion Colleges often organize group projects and assign various tasks, projects, and contents in collaboration with fashion companies. Try to participate in as many initiatives as possible to reach out to more people and show your work. While in college, there is a lot of pressure on regular assignments, so one can be tempted to avoid taking the industry projects, but these projects give you a platform to show how well you can apply what you have learned. Taking part in extra projects is not only advantageous in terms of learning and building relations, but you can also build an enriching CV and have an edge over your peers.
I trust this article has given you a few choices that will help you with planning your next steps. So pick up something from the rundown above and begin getting things going!
Myself Tanmaya Goswami - Fashion Business Expert, Helping Fashion Businesses & Professionals Increase Profitability/Grow.
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