Dear Career Girl:
I have recently been accepted to FIDM and I wanna go there more anything. However, I worry that I may not be ready coming straight out of high school. I was wondering if maybe you could do a blog post or something talking about how different students feel, comparing those who come straight from high school to those who come after having college experience already. I realize that going to FIDM is hard work and determination and I am ready for that, but I just want to make sure I am doing what is right for me. By being able to get feedback on this issue it will help me determine whether I can come right away, or if I need to go to a university first before attending. If you have any advice or anything just email me back, or if you could do a post that would be wonderful as well!
Thank you!
Megan
Dear Megan,
I started the FIDM Fashion Design program right after high school. Literally, because my first quarter was the summer quarter, giving me only had 2 weeks for break. Personally, I am very satisfied with my decision because I am doing what I love. FIDM is fast-paced and requires dedication, organization, and passion. I stress this because if you are still unsure if fashion is the path you'd like to take, perhaps it would be better to seek other options until you are more certain. FIDM begins equipping students with the skills to succeed in the field right away, so you never feel like it is a waste of time or money. Plus, FIDM helps you find jobs even after you graduate. If this truly is something you want to do for the rest of your life, go for it!
I asked some fellow students their opinions on the matter as well:
"Before I went to FIDM, I studied Marine Biology at UCLA. It was a very different experience than studying Fashion Design at FIDM, but during my time there I met a variety of people with backgrounds different from my own. I also had the opportunity to travel and live on my own. It is these life experiences that have allowed me to expand my worldview and help me succeed at FIDM." - Ally Junasz Fashion Design Major
"I found that going to FIDM straight out of high school was a better choice for me. I was involved in classes that not only had to do with fashion, but with the exact career direction I wanted to take." - Alyssa Anzures Apparel Manufacturing Management Major
"I have no regrets. My friends felt that I lost my summer, but I'd have to disagree. Only because I got to start college early, which means getting closer to my dream – and what better way to have spent the summer but in L.A?!" - Kayla Noyes Fashion Design Major
”To say that going to college first and then going to FIDM would be an easier transition is merely not true. FIDM is the type of school that challenges the individual mentally and emotionally. A student who attends FIDM needs to be mentally strong and emotionally capable to handle everything thrown at them.” -Esteban Medina Fashion Design Major
"I've heard several teachers say that it's difficult for students to jump right in to FIDM after high school and that it can be beneficial to take a longer break or go to another college beforehand. This was not the case for me. I was ready to begin cultivating my skills and I was mature enough to be able to plan out my time and work hard. I know what i want to do with my career and my life; why should i waste any more time? For me and many other FIDM students, high school was an exercise in futility. Going to a specialized school allows me to focus on my specific career goals and interests." -Cat Brosius Fashion Design Major
Best of luck with your decision and your future!
Sincerely,
Career Girl (aka Michelle Smith)
Michelle is a Student at FIDM and she blogs about her experience on FIDM.edu. You can read her blog here.