FIDM Students talk about how they chose their majors, what inspires them, and how FIDM is helping them achieve their career goals.
Beauty Industry Merchandising & Marketing Student
Sonya Sharififard
Beauty Industry Merchandising & Marketing Student Sonya Sharififard is currently the Editor-in-Chief of FIDM's MODE®, a student publication headquartered on the Los Angeles campus. On a weekly basis, she is responsible for running editorial meetings, reviewing magazine sales, and recruiting talent.
Tell us a little about yourself: I'm expanding my horizons, one second at a time. I love reading and traveling. I've attended 12 schools around the world, and have a passion for discovering new things. Every risk is an opportunity, but not every opportunity is a risk, which is why I am always seeking challenges to explore. After I graduate with a degree in Beauty Industry Merchandising & Marketing, I plan to continue my studies at FIDM in the Business Management program.
What is one of your proudest accomplishments? Being of service
to others.
Tell us about FIDM MODE® and how you got involved: FIDM MODE®
is FIDM's student-run publication. All editors, writers, photographers, designers, stylists, and models are FIDM Students. It's a place for students to express and communicate their vision of the student body to the community at large. All FIDM campuses send submissions to our Los Angeles headquarters. The magazine is published bi-quarterly—
spring/summer and fall/winter. We currently have an incredible team of 6 advisors, 7 editors, and 42 contributors. My journey began during my first quarter as the Managing Editor. I kept track of the day-to-day activities for publication and served as an assistant to the Editor-in-Chief. The rest is history.
What is it like to be the Editor-in-Chief of FIDM MODE®? Overseeing the process in its entirety is an enriching experience. I cross-check all the facts and ensure all content is ready for print. A typical week consists of attending meetings, reviewing sales, and recruiting talent.
How is being involved with FIDM MODE® helping you prepare for your career goals? As the Editor-in-Chief, I use interpersonal skills that will prove to be essential in the workplace. I have also gained expertise in the areas of public speaking, delegating tasks, and meeting deadlines.
What fashion websites/blogs do you love? Beautylish and Stylesight are great sources of inspiration. I'm constantly learning, and I utilize their trend forecasts in my class projects.
How did you hear about FIDM and what made you decide to go here?
An admissions representative provided my high school psychology class with an outstanding presentation. I was feeling ill that day, but as soon as the promo video was over, I immediately felt uplifted, and requested more information about what the college had to offer. Two months later, I met with my wonderful Admissions Advisor, Shirley McDonald, who guided me throughout the interview evaluation. The possibilities were, and still are, endless.
How did you choose your major? I was fascinated by the coursework required in the beauty industry major. As opposed to makeup artistry, students analyze the fundamentals and principles of the industry. How many of us take the time to read the ingredient labels on our products? The majority of consumers are unaware of specific ingredients to look out for when making purchases; but in the Principles of Beauty Technology class, I knew I'd be challenged to research and evaluate regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration for cosmetics.
What are your career goals and how is FIDM helping you get there?
I hope to become a beauty editor or a business manager. From industry speakers to school organizations, the resources available at FIDM are truly remarkable.
Any advice for someone thinking about going to FIDM? Employers like to see how you can apply what you acquired in the classroom professionally by seeing a well-developed portfolio piece. Network and ask yourself, "How am I preparing for the next step in my work right now?" Group projects may not be a favorite option, but do treat them as if you are creating strategies for an employer. The quality work you do in the class will prepare you for future endeavors. Communication is an art and we have to practice to continue to grow. You may end up with an internship based on your projects!
Never cease to learn, for the world is always changing and we need to have a broad knowledge of our environment. When you set goals, you already have a mindset of what it is and what steps it takes to reach the prize. No one stands still on a goal which is not familiar to them; so as Abraham Lincoln said, "If you believe it, you're already halfway there."
Anything else you'd like to share? Stay motivated, and have Plans B, C, and D ready to go! From my personal experience, when you work hard, there may not be an immediate or obvious reward, but eventually an even greater award may be realized. You are the most important person in your life, and you are your own competition. People always say they want to be someone, but why lose the great someone you already are?
Do you have a passion for the industry like Sonya? Find out FIDM's 20 creative majors.
