HELP with COLLEGE / CAREER Q ? I don't know what to do :( when i graduate?
Question:
Answer:
A career in fashion merchandising is extremely competitive. Advances in computer technology have changed the field dramatically from what is was just 10 years ago. New markets have opened up, and there is new access to a huge variety of suppliers, and vendors. You must be an independent hard worker. You must be a self starter. If you can find your own way now, you will reap the benefits later, and you will prepare yourself for the challenges in the future.
You may find that your talent for networking, researching, and business skills are just as important as your knowledge of fashion.
First, if you haven't already done so, read as much as you can about three related fields: Fashion, Merchandising, and Fashion Merchandising. Truly research the business. Find out where the jobs are, and what skills employers need.
By contacting human resource people in business, and others already in the field, you may get some leads as to
the education requirements expected for entry into business of fashion merchandising. No doubt they are looking for someone with exceptional drive, and a talent for solving the problems ahead of them.
Next, read as much as you can about the schools offering fashion merchandising as a major. Some of these may be 2 year schools leading to an Associate's degree.
Decide which schools you like and apply to them. Wait for the letters of acceptance. You usually must be accepted before you can register for classes there.
Next, look at ways to pay the tuition. This could be a very long process, and will involve your parents. You may need loans, and grants, and scholarships. You must make applications for all that apply. Your earlier research into the business of fashion merchandising will help you to find scholarships, work study programs, internships, and sponsorships.
You need to answer some basic questions which are difficult for all students such as where to live during school, how to pay for school, how to study and live your life at the same time. Everyone goes through this process. It can be frustrating. Many high school students apply to colleges in their junior year, then spend their whole senior year trying to figure out what to do.
Even if your instructor is not being helpful, and you don't have an adviser assigned, there are probably others at your school who have some knowledge. Ask your dean, or principal, or assistant principal. It is part of their job. It is to their advantage to see their students succeed. They might busy doing other things, but you need to be persistent in order to find out the information you need. They will appreciate your determination, even if they are slow in giving individual help and advice.
Merchandising is sales. It involves getting your client's product in front of potential buyers, who then go a step further and purchase it. There is such a thing as sales & marketing theory, and sales knowledge, but it's always the results that count.
You don't have to go it alone. There are plenty of people who are willing to help you, and want to help you, but your individual effort is very important factor to your sucess.
Don't give up and don't stop asking questions. If you end up having to get a job while studying fashion merchandising, don't get discouraged. Good luck.
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