What I wish I knew BEFORE studying fashion| London College of Fashion graduate

Summary

In this video, the creator shares the key lessons they wish they had known before pursuing a fashion degree. They emphasize the importance of understanding the specific focus within fashion, whether it be design, business, or something niche. The creator stresses that a degree doesn't guarantee instant success, and it's okay to transition away from the industry. They also advise that a fashion degree, especially in business, requires a genuine interest in business studies. Patience is key when finding a dream job, and understanding the course modules is crucial before committing to a degree. Overall, it's a candid and realistic perspective on the challenges and expectations in fashion education.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understand why you want a fashion degree: Clarify whether you want to work in the industry, solve a specific problem like sustainability, or start a business.
• 😀 Managing expectations is key: Fashion school isn’t about meeting famous people or attending parties. It's about hard work and career goals.
• 😀 A degree doesn’t guarantee success: A fashion degree won’t make you instantly successful; social media and personal branding can be more powerful.
• 😀 Not everyone stays in fashion: Many graduates find that they don’t stay in the fashion industry, and that’s okay. Skills are transferable.
• 😀 Fashion degrees aren't limited to fashion jobs: A fashion business degree is essentially a business degree with a focus on fashion, and you can work in other industries.
• 😀 Make sure you like business: Fashion business degrees involve a lot of business-related topics, such as analysis, profit and loss, and marketing.
• 😀 Finding your dream role takes time: Post-graduation struggles are normal; landing your dream job immediately is rare, and patience is necessary.
• 😀 Don’t rush into a degree you're not passionate about: Research the modules before committing to a fashion degree to ensure it aligns with your interests.
• 😀 Be realistic about your career path: Even with a degree, success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes years or even decades to build a great career.
• 😀 Don't waste your time and money: If you don’t enjoy the subjects or the path you're pursuing in a degree, reconsider. It’s better to pivot before committing to something you're not passionate about.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video shared in the transcript?

The video aims to share the creator's insights about what they wish they had known before pursuing a fashion degree. It provides tips and lessons learned that could help others decide whether this path is right for them.

Why is it important to ask yourself why you want to pursue a fashion degree?

It's essential to clarify your goals before committing to a fashion degree. Understanding whether you want to work in the industry, start your own business, or address issues like sustainability will help you focus your efforts and manage expectations.

What does the speaker warn about when it comes to studying fashion and meeting famous people?

The speaker warns that pursuing a fashion degree just to meet famous people or attend parties is not a worthwhile reason. Fashion degrees require hard work and dedication, and social events are not the main focus of these programs.

How does the speaker emphasize the value of a fashion degree in the real world?

The speaker highlights that having a fashion degree does not guarantee instant success. Many people without formal education in fashion may have more success in the industry, especially with the rise of social media and personal branding.

What does the speaker suggest about staying in the fashion industry after graduation?

The speaker suggests that many graduates may not end up staying in the fashion industry. Skills learned in a fashion degree are transferable, and it's okay to explore different career paths outside of fashion.

What misconception about fashion degrees does the speaker address?

The speaker addresses the misconception that a fashion degree only prepares you to work with clothes. In reality, a fashion business degree, for example, covers many aspects of business such as marketing, commerce, and analysis, all applied to the fashion industry.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of liking business studies for a fashion business degree?

The speaker stresses that a fashion business degree requires an interest in business topics, such as research, data analysis, and business acumen. Without this interest, the course and subsequent job may not be enjoyable or fulfilling.

What does the speaker say about landing a dream job right after graduation?

The speaker advises that it takes time to find a dream job after graduation. Expecting immediate success can lead to frustration, and many people face rejection before landing their ideal role.

What advice does the speaker offer regarding course selection for a fashion degree?

The speaker advises prospective students to thoroughly read the course modules before applying for a fashion degree. Understanding the subjects covered will help ensure that the program aligns with their interests and goals.

What is the speaker's final piece of advice about pursuing a fashion degree?

The speaker's final piece of advice is to be patient with your career progression. A successful career takes time, and it's important to be realistic about expectations and not to feel discouraged by early setbacks.