I want to major in fashion, now what?

"So you're a fashion major? Oh OK."

"Why not be a doctor or a business major?"

"You'll never find a job."

Blah, Blah, Blah.

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The fact is, the fashion industry is competitive. But there are jobs available. Every industry like medical, financial, and education has hardships when it comes to looking for employment. There will be many companies that you apply to, and a lot will reject you. But, during or after your senior year, you will find a job. So before you let your nosy aunt or pessimistic uncle convince you to change your major, you should look at this list of advice before you change your mind.

~ Look into the industry history and various designers

~ Read "The Fashion Industry and It's Careers". It will give you a great insight of the different opportunities and careers you can take advantage of that you might not have heard of before.

~ Think of the reason why you chose to major in fashion. Don't let someone who already has a career try to influence you.

~ Find a volunteer program that centers around fashion. For example, check and see if your city or state has a fashion week or a major fashion show. The more you attempt to enhance your knowledge and experience of the fashion industry, the more desirable you are to companies.

~ Do more than one internship. Start as early as possible at small retail shops. You can then work your way up to well-known places like Macy's or JCPenny.

~ Get to know your fashion professors. They might have connections in the fashion industry. The more they see you wanting to learn and grow your network, the more they will be willing to help.

~ Sign up for LinkedIn. There is no better way to grow your network than to "connect" with industry professionals.

~ Make friends with fellow fashion students. If your college has a college of the arts living learning community, you will be able to relate to each other's fashion problems and you will make a great group of friends.

Hopefully these tips will help you stick to being a fashion major. You will encounter some lows, but overall, you will be happy with making this decision.

If you have any questions about being a fashion major, let me know!