Name: Gabby CookÂ
Hometown: Jensen Beach, FL
Year: Sophomore
Age: 19
Major: Retail, Merchandising & Product Development
Relationship Status: Taken
Courtesy: Gabby Cook
Her Campus (HC): What got you interested in becoming a Retail Merchandising & Product Development major?
Gabby Cook (GC): I’ve always had a love for fashion! I really admire that the industry is so diverse and constantly changing. It’s so full of life and inspiration. I’ve been working in retail for about three years and I still love going to work even though I just work in the mall. It took me a while to realize how much I was in love with what I was doing. I spent my first semester as an “exploratory” student before declaring myself as a Retail major. But I haven’t looked back since!
HC: Why did you choose FSU?
GC: Originally I chose FSU because I wanted to be in the film program, but some part of me always knew that it was unlikely to work out. I also knew that FSU had a really good retail program. I ended up only applying to FSU because it was the only university in Florida that offered great programs for both of the majors I was considering. I think there was never really a question; Florida State was the obvious choice. Now I can’t imagine myself being anywhere else! It’s funny though because I was raised a Gator, but I still chose FSU anyway. Go Noles!
HC: When and why did you start working for Aeropostale?
GC: I began working at Aero during the summer of 2013. I applied to pretty much every store I could think of that would hire under 18. Aero was the only store that called me for an interview! At first I was like “Ugh, I don’t even like that store,” but taking the job was probably the best decision I’ve ever made.
HC: You’ve been featured a lot on their Instagram. Do they ask you to model their clothes for them or how did you get involved with that?
GC: So in June I became a part of what Aero calls their “Style Council.” I was nominated by my managers and then selected by the corporate social media team. Basically they send me a gift card every two weeks to style any outfits in the store and then submit photos of myself wearing them. I usually send them about 7-10 pictures of each outfit and then they will post their favorites on the Aeropostale Instagram, Tumblr and Twitter!Â
HC: What are your plans for the future?
HC: Right now, my number 1 goal is to intern this summer with Aero at their corporate headquarters in NYC! After that, I’m not really sure. I still have so much to learn about the industry and all the opportunities that are out there!
HC: What’s a fun fact about yourself?
GC: I really love Coldplay! They’ve been my favorite band since I was 12!
Courtesy: Gabby Cook
Check out Gabby’s Instagram here. She is also an intern for jewelry and vintage clothing company, Bohindie Stream!