6 answers
kendra
Student
Fairhaven, Massachusetts
1
Question
Asked
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whats it like in your field?
im interested in these fields and i want to know if they are worth going to college or not. i am also wondering if these were your careers of choice
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6 answers
Rosie Oliveras
Designer
3
Answers
Northport, New York
Updated
Rosie’s Answer
Entry level roles in fashion design are usually very competitive and many people applying will have a bachelors degree in fashion design so it would be very difficult to get in above those candidate if you don't have a bachelors degree or experience.
There are also lots of technical considerations to consider with fashion design that make having a bachelors degree beneficial.
So, in short - yes its worth going to college if you are going to study this particular field. A college degree in anything else would be worthless in this field. Either way, it would be worthwhile talking to designers/ maybe shadowing a designer at your ideal company to really see if it's the career for you before you invest in a college degree. Its also a great way to build connections and experience that would be super valuable if you choose to pursue that career.
There are also lots of technical considerations to consider with fashion design that make having a bachelors degree beneficial.
So, in short - yes its worth going to college if you are going to study this particular field. A college degree in anything else would be worthless in this field. Either way, it would be worthwhile talking to designers/ maybe shadowing a designer at your ideal company to really see if it's the career for you before you invest in a college degree. Its also a great way to build connections and experience that would be super valuable if you choose to pursue that career.
Michelle Selko, MS, OTR/L
occupational therapist
22
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello Kendra!
I work as an occupational therapist, which requires a Master's Degree. College was definitely worthwhile because it opened up job opportunities for me and boosted my pay scale. After considering several roles in the healthcare, I chose occupational therapy as my career path. It resonated with my personal values and what I really loved was the vast range of settings I could potentially work in.
I work as an occupational therapist, which requires a Master's Degree. College was definitely worthwhile because it opened up job opportunities for me and boosted my pay scale. After considering several roles in the healthcare, I chose occupational therapy as my career path. It resonated with my personal values and what I really loved was the vast range of settings I could potentially work in.
Christina Hayslip
Residential Interior Designer
1
Answer
Lakewood, Colorado
Updated
Christina’s Answer
Hi Kendra,
I am a residential interior designer specializing in kitchens, baths and remodels. I attended The Art Institute of Philadelphia and have an Associates Degree in Interior Design. In interior design the benefit of additional schooling is learning numerous areas of design and beginning to figure out what area interests you most. I was surprised to find that I loved kitchen & bath design, I initially thought I'd want to do more of the decor and soft finishes. There are a lot of certification programs out there along with traditional associates and bachelors programs. Many larger corporate companies will seek out a degree over a certification, however after enough experience in the industry that is less important. Certain areas of design like commercial and hospitality require an advanced degree (bachelors/masters) and some professional certifications also require a formal degree - like the NCIDQ. If you are unsure I highly suggest looking for a local community or junior college that offers some interior design classes and dip your toes in there first.
This was my career choice since I graduated high school. I attended a 2 year community college to save some money then transferred to AIPH. I intended to get my bachelors, but found I didn't want to do commercial design and most of that program was focused on that, so I transitioned to an associates.
Best advise is that whatever path you choose be aware of the debt you are accumulating. Cost of living is so high right now that you can do yourself a favor by keeping your debt low.
Good luck!
I am a residential interior designer specializing in kitchens, baths and remodels. I attended The Art Institute of Philadelphia and have an Associates Degree in Interior Design. In interior design the benefit of additional schooling is learning numerous areas of design and beginning to figure out what area interests you most. I was surprised to find that I loved kitchen & bath design, I initially thought I'd want to do more of the decor and soft finishes. There are a lot of certification programs out there along with traditional associates and bachelors programs. Many larger corporate companies will seek out a degree over a certification, however after enough experience in the industry that is less important. Certain areas of design like commercial and hospitality require an advanced degree (bachelors/masters) and some professional certifications also require a formal degree - like the NCIDQ. If you are unsure I highly suggest looking for a local community or junior college that offers some interior design classes and dip your toes in there first.
This was my career choice since I graduated high school. I attended a 2 year community college to save some money then transferred to AIPH. I intended to get my bachelors, but found I didn't want to do commercial design and most of that program was focused on that, so I transitioned to an associates.
Best advise is that whatever path you choose be aware of the debt you are accumulating. Cost of living is so high right now that you can do yourself a favor by keeping your debt low.
Good luck!
Alyssa Krupinski
Technical Designer
2
Answers
Kissimmee, Florida
Updated
Alyssa’s Answer
Being a technical designer, I'm immersed in an exciting aspect of fashion design. Many perceive fashion design as merely sketching clothing designs, but it's a universe beyond that. When I first embarked on my college journey majoring in fashion design, I too had the impression that it was all about sketching. However, I soon discovered the vastness of the fashion design world.
If your passion lies in fashion design, I wholeheartedly endorse pursuing a college education in it. This will guide you in pinpointing the precise area of design you wish to delve into. I was unaware of the existence of technical design as a career until I attended college and secured an internship in the field. Moreover, college can pave the way to valuable internships in the industry. I encourage you to seize as many internship opportunities as possible to build your network and amass knowledge and skills. These connections can often be the key to unlocking job opportunities post-graduation.
Fashion Design is a fiercely competitive arena, so having the upper hand of a degree and a robust network is undoubtedly a boon!
If your passion lies in fashion design, I wholeheartedly endorse pursuing a college education in it. This will guide you in pinpointing the precise area of design you wish to delve into. I was unaware of the existence of technical design as a career until I attended college and secured an internship in the field. Moreover, college can pave the way to valuable internships in the industry. I encourage you to seize as many internship opportunities as possible to build your network and amass knowledge and skills. These connections can often be the key to unlocking job opportunities post-graduation.
Fashion Design is a fiercely competitive arena, so having the upper hand of a degree and a robust network is undoubtedly a boon!
Yvonne Chen
81
Answers
Updated
Yvonne’s Answer
Taking my own career in the fashion industry as an example, it's a field I'm deeply passionate about. Owning my own brand is more than just a dream for me, but without a thorough knowledge of the fashion world, it's impossible to find the right path. From my experience, launching a brand on mere assumptions won't get you far. The most effective way to inch closer to your dream is to immerse yourself in the area and brand that captivates you, continually gaining experience, learning, and refining your skills. Fashion design is a vast realm of design, and I hope my journey can illustrate that pursuing your interests may require thoughtful consideration. It's crucial to have a profound understanding of the design style you adore, and even undertake internships at relevant companies to continually enhance your drawing skills, particularly in using AI/PS.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
In the field of food manufacturing, it can be both rewarding and challenging. Whether it’s worth going to college depends on your specific career goals and interests within this industry. Here are some key considerations:
1. Career Options: Food manufacturing offers a wide range of career opportunities, from food science and quality control to supply chain management and production. Determine which aspect of the field aligns best with your passion and skills.
2. Education: While some entry-level positions may not require a college degree, obtaining relevant education can open doors to higher-paying and more specialized roles. Consider pursuing degrees in food science, engineering, or business if you want to excel in this field.
3. Passion and Commitment: Like any career, success often correlates with your dedication and enthusiasm. If you’re genuinely interested in food manufacturing and have a strong work ethic, it can be a fulfilling path.
4. Industry Trends: Stay informed about the latest trends and advancements in food manufacturing, such as sustainability, automation, and food safety regulations. Continuous learning is essential to thrive in this field.
5. Networking: Building a network within the industry can be invaluable. Join professional organizations, attend conferences, and connect with mentors who can guide you in your career.
6. Internships and Experience: Consider gaining practical experience through internships or part-time jobs while in college. Hands-on experience can make you more marketable to potential employers.
1. Career Options: Food manufacturing offers a wide range of career opportunities, from food science and quality control to supply chain management and production. Determine which aspect of the field aligns best with your passion and skills.
2. Education: While some entry-level positions may not require a college degree, obtaining relevant education can open doors to higher-paying and more specialized roles. Consider pursuing degrees in food science, engineering, or business if you want to excel in this field.
3. Passion and Commitment: Like any career, success often correlates with your dedication and enthusiasm. If you’re genuinely interested in food manufacturing and have a strong work ethic, it can be a fulfilling path.
4. Industry Trends: Stay informed about the latest trends and advancements in food manufacturing, such as sustainability, automation, and food safety regulations. Continuous learning is essential to thrive in this field.
5. Networking: Building a network within the industry can be invaluable. Join professional organizations, attend conferences, and connect with mentors who can guide you in your career.
6. Internships and Experience: Consider gaining practical experience through internships or part-time jobs while in college. Hands-on experience can make you more marketable to potential employers.