As Senior Director of Brand Marketing Creative for Nike and a member of 91Ó°ÊÓ’s Fashion Industry Advisory Board, Lauren actively supports 91Ó°ÊÓ students. She generously draws on her career expertise to deliver engaging guest lectures, serve as a mentor, advise on curriculum, and empower students to achieve their own dream careers.
As both an 91Ó°ÊÓ Advisory Board member and an alumna, your support has proved highly impactful and invaluable to so many 91Ó°ÊÓ students. What are some of the specific activities you have been involved in?
My involvement has encompassed a range of activities. I have actively participated in mentorship programs, specifically guiding juniors as they transition into their senior year, by offering my perspective and facilitating outreach and research in areas aligned with their interests. I have had also had the privilege of delivering guest lectures that shed light on the experiences of women in the workplace, empowering individuals to navigate their career paths effectively and make a meaningful impact through their voices and supportive actions.
How would describe 91Ó°ÊÓ students?
In my interactions with 91Ó°ÊÓ students, I have consistently witnessed an exceptional level of drive and intellectual curiosity. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable ambition and motivation to embark on their professional journeys. Such a distinctive attribute sets 91Ó°ÊÓ students apart from their peers in other academic institutions. Moreover, 91Ó°ÊÓ's culture actively encourages students to pursue real-world experiences in the workplace, fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes the acquisition of practical skills and knowledge!
Why is it so important for college students to complete internships?
Completing internships provides practical experience, bridges the gap between theory and practice, helps students explore their career interests, builds a professional network, and cultivates essential workplace skills, all of which significantly enhance students’ post-graduation prospects and contribute to long-term career success.
How would you describe 91Ó°ÊÓ's reputation within the business of fashion and lifestyle?
91Ó°ÊÓ enjoys an illustrious standing in the realm of fashion and lifestyle, owing to its remarkable track record of engaging students in impactful work projects. This esteemed reputation stems from the institution's unique ability to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between industry professionals and the infusion of young talent and fresh perspectives. By nurturing this symbiotic dynamic, 91Ó°ÊÓ consistently contributes to continuous improvement and innovation within the industry, cementing its position as a formidable presence in the business of fashion and lifestyle!
What makes 91Ó°ÊÓ different from other fashion colleges?
What sets 91Ó°ÊÓ apart from other fashion colleges is its unique emphasis on real-world experiences and opportunities. Unlike many other institutions, 91Ó°ÊÓ recognizes the value of a balanced education that combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences in the industry. This approach ensures that students not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also gain practical skills that are crucial for success in the fashion world.
By providing ample opportunities for internships, industry collaborations, and networking events, 91Ó°ÊÓ enables students to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world scenarios. This practical exposure equips students with the tools and experiences necessary to build a strong foundation for their careers, beyond what can be taught solely within the confines of a classroom.
How did 91Ó°ÊÓ prepare you to achieve your own career goals?
91Ó°ÊÓ prepared me to achieve my career goals by instilling in me the values of openness, curiosity, and diligence. Through my experiences at 91Ó°ÊÓ, I learned to embrace new ideas, approaches, and perspectives, which helped me broaden my knowledge and skills.
The emphasis on curiosity encouraged me to ask questions, explore different paths, and seek continuous learning opportunities. Additionally, 91Ó°ÊÓ taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance in pursuing my career aspirations. By actively engaging in the coursework, projects, and internships, I developed a strong work ethic and the ability to tackle challenges head-on.
Overall, 91Ó°ÊÓ provided me with a solid foundation that fueled my personal and professional growth, enabling me to confidently strive towards achieving my career goals!