Style Scoop Interview: Courtney Oman

Name: Courtney Oman (pictured above with her husband Jamie)

Major/Grad Year: Merchandise Product Development & International Manufacturing & Product Development 2003

Campus: OC & LA

Hometown:  Colorado Springs, CO

Current employer: Volcom, Inc. since 2006

Job title and description: Retail Buyer/Allocator/Planner;  Responsible for the men's, junior's, and kid's apparel and accessories in 10 locations: LA, San Diego, Santa Barbara, two in
Maui, Berkeley, Waikiki, Boulder, and New York.

What are the things you like most about your job? I love the product we sell and develop. I love the people I work for and work with. I enjoy traveling, and that my job is not mundane.

How did you find out about FIDM and what made you feel FIDM was right for you?  When I working retail at Neiman Marcus in Newport Beach, a co-worker mentioned she had been accepted to FIDM and was going to attend that next semester. I went online to check it out, requested information, and admissions called to set up a meeting. I had always wanted to be in the fashion industry, but it wasn't offered at the University of Colorado where I have my first degree. My undergraduate education was rewarding, but FIDM gave me the tools for the industry where I was passionate to work.

How did you choose your major?  I learned about the IMPD Program and it had it all: fashion, business, and travel. Without a doubt, that was the program and career course I knew immediately that I wanted to pursue.

What are some of your top sources of inspiration?  My daughter, my family,
and co-workers.

What are some of your greatest accomplishments?  Making the transition from Merchandising/Development to Retail buyer here at Volcom. I am so fortunate to be gaining so much experience from so many aspects of the apparel business.

What was your favorite thing about attending FIDM?  I am the type who enjoys school, so the classes were fun, but most importantly it was the connections I made. It is always great to have contacts.

What are some of your goals for the future?  My biggest goal right now is to work toward finding the balance between family and work. I love being home with my daughter, but I also very much enjoy being at work. Maintaining a healthy balance for the long run is my #1 goal.

Anything else you'd like to tell aspiring FIDM Students?  I always hear people say about FIDM, 'What you put into it, is what you get out of it.' This is absolutely true.  While you're there, pretend like it is your job to be there.  Approach all of your teachers, speakers, and administrators as if they could be the next person you're going to interview with or be hired by.  The information they have is invaluable. They could be the reference that makes or breaks the opportunity to get your foot in the door. -- Belissa and Victoria

Photo of Courtney and Jamie by Karl Shreeves

Comments

[Ashley Crne]

You live my dream, I've been wanting to go to FIDM since about 6th or 7th grade. I am a senior now and I have been accepted into FIDM Irvine for product development. It's been a life-long dream to design for Volcom, wich is why I chose Irvine. Traveling happens to be one of my favorite things and my goal is to one day see the world. Financially, however I have no meens of getting there, or living there. It seems that the whole world is against me on this, but it is so inspiring Knowing that you made it!