Fashion merchandising major, Katie Waite, believes the best way to succeed is by being as involved as possible, and that’s exactly what she’s been doing since her freshman year of college.
Now with three years of experience under her belt, Waite entered her senior year as President of the Fashion Visual Merchandising Club, Treasurer of the Fashion Association Club and President of Delta Tau Sigma, a community service organization.
With that many extracurricular activities to keep track of, it’s hard to believe Waite still manages time with family and friends as well as a 15-credit course load.
She explained her involvement with fashion and why she decided to enter the field.
“I loved fashion growing up,” she said.
“My mom was a big influence too. She’s really into it.”
Waite said it’s difficult to describe her style. Though she loves chunky sweaters, skinny jeans, and her Michael Kors bags, she also finds herself relaxing in yoga pants and a sweatshirt.
“Believe it or not, a lot of my clothes are from Abercrombie and Fitch, and you wouldn’t even know it. Clearance is the way to go.”
This winter season, Waite was promoted to manager at her retail job at American Eagle back home in Lancaster.
While that’s a great start for fashion merchandising, Waite explained that she does not want to pursue fashion retail as a career.
“I can’t do retail forever. I’m leaning more towards the event planning, and marketing side of fashion,” she said.
Waite’s advice to fellow fashionistas is to start building a resume early, and to always embrace your fashion sense.
“Don’t be afraid to express yourself and show who you are through clothing.”