FIDM Students talk about how they chose their majors, what inspires them, and how FIDM is helping them achieve their career goals.
Merchandise Product Development Student
Arlene Guerra
Arlene Guerra came to FIDM with a Bachelors Degree in Marketing, a background in retail, and eight years experience in fashion styling! Not only that, she once had her own jewelry line carried at Anthropology. She’s now studying Merchandise Product Development at FIDM, with a goal of becoming a Creative Director for a fashion brand.
Tell us a little about yourself: My background is in styling and accessories. I have a Bachelors Degree in Marketing. I began as a department manager for Macy’s and then was promoted to the corporate buying office in San Francisco. From there I had the opportunity to work in advertising and was mentored by a seasoned stylist who took me under her wing. I flourished rapidly and realized that this was my passion. Shortly thereafter I decided to try freelance. I knew I had to move to New York if I really wanted to test the waters. So, I took the leap of faith and ended up freelance styling for eight years. My work mostly included luxury retail clients such as Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, etc., which then evolved into e-commerce. My accessories experience grew in a much more unexpected and organic way. I designed a necklace for my nieces, and I loved it so much I couldn’t resist wearing it. The next thing I knew a local West Village boutique was requesting it and I signed on with a showroom. It was a great learning experience and also served as the impetus for furthering my education, specifically enhancing my technical skills. I loved accessories, but I wanted to somehow figure out a way to incorporate my styling background, and further my career.
Where are you currently interning? For my last quarter I have two internships: the designer Jeremy Scott and the Kellwood XOXO division.
Tell us about your internships: My previous internship with Trends West was trend related so I am looking for more product development experience. I am hoping that these last two internships will provide greater exposure to a mainstream commercial market and the young designer market.
Tell us about your jewelry line: In a nutshell, my line called Pretty Young Thing had a very cartoon-chic aesthetic. Many of my pieces were one-of-a-kind. I love vintage, and a vintage rhinestone necklace was usually incorporated into every collection that I created. It was sold in small boutiques across the U.S. from Anthropology to On Pedder in Korea. My accessories frequently appeared in editorials in publications such as Teen Vogue, Nylon, Glamour, Bazaar, Elle, etc. It was definitely a whirlwind. I designed, developed, and produced P.Y.T. for four years.
How did you hear about FIDM and what made you decide to go here?
I knew of FIDM from friends in the industry. After deciding to go back to school I began doing research and found FIDM has a great reputation, accreditation, and a practical job-related curriculum. I initially thought about the Jewelry Design Program. I was not convinced it was the right program because I was also contemplating product design. Luckily, I had a great advisor, Kathi Gilbert, who brought product development to my attention.
How did you choose your major? Product Development is coming full circle for me. It’s the perfect marriage of design and merchandising. My ultimate goal is for a role that allows me to utilize my practical styling experience, accessories design, and trend background, not to mention that Product Development is an area that is increasingly becoming a focus for most companies. I think it is vital to keep your skills relevant and to keep expanding your knowledge.
What’s your favorite class at FIDM? I do not know if I would call it my favorite class, but Computer Aided Design was an eye opener for me. It was quite difficult initially, but when I mastered the basics it allowed me the freedom to create without the frustration I had with my flat sketching skills.
What are your career goals and how is FIDM helping you get there?
My goal is to be a Creative Director for a brand or company in a trend related capacity, with an emphasis in accessories.
What advice do you have for someone thinking about going to FIDM? Make sure you are passionate about the your major as it will help you apply what you are learning in school to the real world. The curriculum is intense and demanding, but well worth it. Managing your study hours is vital to getting the most out of every class. FIDM has opened many doors. Everyone I meet has respect for FIDM Alumni because of the school’s reputation. You cannot ask for more than that.
Do you have a passion for the industry like Arlene? Find out more about studying Merchandise Product Development at FIDM.
