My SMC story almost would have never happened. Coming from a small town in Germany with a difficult family background and no financial support, I found the dream of studying Fashion in L.A. unachievable. But... I dreamt of it and made it happen. For years, I had saved all my money I've ever earned and lived very economically to save up enough to be able to study as an international student in the US. I faced many challenges as an international student alone in the US without any support, but I worked hard towards my goals and never gave up. Now it's time for me to graduate — even with 4.0 GPA — and go to another amazing city, NYC. I am so proud of myself for making it happen. I am extremely grateful for all the people I met along the way, and I am excited to say one last time as a graduating cheerleader: I am proud to be SMC.
SMC helped me understand my major, Fashion Merchandising, and the fashion industry better. My classes and professors prepared me well for my next step in my education, my transfer college FIT in NYC, and a career in fashion in general. SMC also helped me believe in myself again and shaped me into a more confident and well-rounded person.
SMC was the place where my dreams came true. I’ve always had the dream of studying abroad in the U.S. and being immersed in a vibrant fashion culture and society. I am so grateful for all the opportunities, such as L.A. Fashion Week or my fashion marketing internship. SMC led me in the right direction and helped me find industry connections that could shape my future.
A shoutout to my amazing fashion professors: Professor Ivas, Kolko, Louis, Lake, and Armstrong. And also my boyfriend Jose without whom I would not have survived.
To current/future SMC students: Stay focused on your goals but also enjoy the ride!