Students in the Fashion Merchandising major are gaining valuable internship experience this summer to boost their skill set and knowledge of the fashion world.
Apparel Merchandising and Product Development, is a four year program that aims at preparing students for a fast-paced and successful career in the fashion industry.
“All AMPD majors are required to complete the ‘career-sequence’ containing the CO-OP: work experience; AMPD 2720 Careers in Apparel Course; AMPD 3890: Internship 1 (part-time positions)” said Dr. Diane Frey, the AMPD Program Coordinator. “It is beneficial to acquire additional work experiences to further develop skills and gain professional contacts.”
Not only do students get to explore opportunities in the fashion world by doing their own research, but the University also plays a large role in helping students to find the internship that peaks their interest.
“BGSU Apparel Merchandising and Product Development department lets us know of many job and internship opportunities through email and in class. They offer both a Field Experience and Internship course that both allow you to receive school credits from retail and fashion work experience” said student Katherine Pindoley, who currently has an internship at Nordstrom.
Pindoley’s internship is in Troy, Michigan, at Nordstrom’s most popular location in the state. She focuses on an activities related to an assistant management position in the Somerset Collection in the fashion, jewelry and watches department.
“It is the fast track to a management position in their retail stores that can further you to higher positions in the future,” said Pindoley. “They are a company that promotes from within, so they always recommend all of their employees to start at management and then further your career with Nordstrom as a well-rounded employee that knows multiple aspects of the company.”
Many students in the AMPD program end up gaining internships and becoming successful after graduation. “Our students are successful in acquiring work experiences and they understand the value of building skills and entering the work environment,” said Frey. “When the academic knowledge and the practical internships blend together, there is success.”
The University’s AMPD program is ranked in the top 50 fashion merchandising programs in the USA. Students in the department are gaining summer internships that further that make the program so highly acclaimed among the nation.
Pindoley expresses how her internship made her not just learn the ins and outs of retail, but possibly gain a career.
“I think gaining this internship has been an eye opening experience of how large specialty retailers operate compared to small boutiques, which I was accustomed to living at home,” said Pindoley. “I am really glad I took the risk and decided to move to Michigan for the summer to see how the corporate world of retail works at Nordstrom. Since they promote from within, I am hoping to stick with the company and grow with every opportunity that is offered within their stores.”
Students in AMPD program have gone on to work with retailers like American Eagle, Victoria’s Secret, Forever 21, Vera Bradley and more.
