Fashion Career Expert: Maria Pesin

Going To A Fashion College

I have hired many assistants over the years.  I usually hire people just starting out in their careers.  I like training them and guiding them in their careers.  It is not that I purposely look for people without experience it is just that I don't mind inexperience.  What I look for is a person with a can do-go getter personality.  Someone with good character.  I can always teach someone the job.  But I can't teach someone the right attitude.  You either have it or you don't. 

However, I do look to hire from a fashion college.  These kids get the basic training and in a good college- internships.  This way I do not have to teach the most basic concepts.  I have taken on kids without this education and there is a big difference. 

So if you want to get into the business this is a great place to start.  There are well over 200 colleges in the US with fashion programs.  If you write to me I will send you a list of them.

 

Colleges and Universities: Great Places to Connect

Another place to meet people in the field you want to break into is by attending classes at colleges or universities which support specific industries. Many times professors have worked or are still working in a particular field, and can help you meet people. A lot of these colleges also offer outplacement services that help students find jobs. Make sure the college you attend offers this valuable service, as it does give you an advantage.

When I first joined my current company, I needed to find an assistant designer. I listed the position at a local college, Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). Many great applicants applied and I hired a terrific person! My boss was so impressed with the quality of these applicants that he asked me to interview and hire two additional assistants from FIT.

Laboratory of Institute Merchandising (LIM) is another place that I’ve used to find assistants. I find their applicants have the appropriate education requirements and outlook to be an asset to me and my division.