Class of 2017

Last week, I embarked on the journey that is 'final year' - that's final year at university I'm talking about. It's been a somewhat lengthy journey getting here (I previously did two years at college) but so far it's all been worth it. I've learned more about fashion and the industry than I ever imagined and unfortunately it's not as glamorous as we are all made to believe.
Deciding to go to university was a huge decision. At the time, I was 24, stuck in a job I no longer had passion and enthusiasm for and in need of drastic change.
The uni fees I would have to pay had been altered the year before thanks to the British government and knowing I was going to have to pay nearly £9,000 a year really overshadowed my new venture but to get that dream job, I had no choice - a degree was needed so university it was.
Throughout my last 3 years as a uni student I've never really thought about the cost or what I'm actually paying for. Like a true student, I have used my student loan to splash out on a couple of luxuries (shoes, prosecco) but the majority has been spent on my education. I did a little math and worked out that while I'm in uni, I'm paying £23 an hour to be there which is extortionate in anyone's book! I'm sure there was good reason to change fees but when I finally graduate I will be approximately £35,000 in debt. That's a little daunting to me even in my late twenties but what about if you're in your early twenties?
That said the cost has so far been worth it. I've studied some very interesting subjects, taught by some really smart and interesting lecturers. Studying has changed me for the better, it's been difficult and I'm sure final year will test me even more, both physically and mentally
But I think having a degree gives you so many options when starting out in your career. Being a fashion student has been an experience, I've had the opportunity to meet great and inspiring people, attend interesting events and gain experience within an industry I strive to be part of. Let's hope that in 8 months time I'm still as sanguine (even though I will have made a very sad departure with my UNiDAYS student discount) - I'll keep you posted.

Artwork by Mark de Villiers

Fashion and Events Lecture

 Josef Jammerbund - The British Fashion Council - Head of Events

The best thing about being a fashion student is the opportunities. In the last year I have worked with Trend Bible and learnt about future consumer trends, contributed to the Universities Creative Arts blog. Worked on placement as a Assistant Buyers Assistant at The Baird Group (BMB) a Menswear brand company and last week I attended a very informative lecture about both fashion and events management within the fashion industry. 

Two speakers took to the stage to speak about their chosen career paths. Firstly Tracy Martin 'Collectable Names in Fashion' was her lecture title. Tracy has written a variety of books and worked with the BBC on Flog it and ITV's This Morning. Her lecture informed us of her love for vintage fashion and she spoke about her favourite designs through the decades. Coco Chanel, Jacques Fath, Ossie Clark and Elsa Schiaparelli to name a few.

Next to the stage was Josef Jammerbund Head of Events for The British Fashion Council. Josef talked about working for The British Fashion Council on a variety of amazing fashion calender events. Including of course London Fashion Week, London Fashion Weekend, London collections Men and The British Fashion Awards to name a few. 

The lecture was very insightful followed by a Q&A with the speakers who answered students questions and gave advice on how to get into the industry. 'Networking' was their best tip. Overall a fun filled lecture on what was a very rainy Thursday night. I can't wait for the next one!!