Colorado State University student, Nicole Pink, studied abroad where the fashion industry never sleeps: the Paris American Academy in Paris, France. Pink is majoring in apparel and merchandising with a concentration in apparel design and production in the Department of Design and Merchandising. Pink gave us the inside scoop on what it was like to study in Paris and shared some of the incredible experiences she had.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself, where are you from? What do you do for fun?
A: I’m originally from the Chicago area in Illinois, however now my family lives in Las Vegas. I love to be creative, especially when it comes to fashion and sewing. You can always find me in the sewing labs or sketching a new design! When I’m not doing that, I’m out with friends and trying new things.
Q: Why did you choose Colorado State University and the Department of Design and Merchandising?
A: I chose CSU because I wanted a school that incorporated the state college experience with the major I wanted. The lively and unique environment here at CSU is very rare to find – along with the highly ranked apparel and merchandising program. This program definitely stands out.
Q: Why did you decide to study abroad?
A: I studied abroad to gain a new point-of-view and experience all that I can while in school. Along with learning, the moments outside of the classroom have helped shape my creative eye.
Q: What are you learning from it?
A: I’ve learned couture techniques from French couturiers, millinery, felt work, shibori dyeing and feather and lace work. I have also learned about French culture, history, fashion, and to speak a little French too!
Q: What surprised you?
A: I was surprised by the experiences I have had. I attended five different haute couture fashion shows during Paris Couture Week and was able to get up close with the garments, couturiers, and designers. It was incredible!
Q: What are your career goals? How has this experience and classes at CSU and in the Department of Design and Merchandising helped you get closer to accomplishing these goals?
A: My ultimate goal is to be a creative director for a haute couture house. This experience has given me a behind the scenes view of what that job really means and what it takes for me to get there. CSU and DM have provided me with so many skills to achieve this goal and the know how to do it!
Q: Anything else you’d like to add?
A: I am so grateful for this experience! I’m sad I will be leaving Paris this weekend, but I can’t wait to come home to Colorado State!
The Department of Design and Merchandising is part of CSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.
