In this class, I gained hands-on experience by working with a company aligned within my area of interest. Through this internship, I applied the knowledge and skills acquired during my formal education to real-world professional situations, helping to ease my transition into the workplace. I maintained a journal to reflect on my work experiences, prepared written analyses to deepen my understanding of industry practices, and participated in discussions to share insights with peers. Completing 250 hours of internship allowed me to develop practical skills, adapt to professional expectations, and build a foundation for future career opportunities in fashion.

Buf 4900: Internship: Career Map

Buf 4900: Internship: Brand Image

Buf 4900: Internship: Professional Development

From this assignment, I learned the importance of critically analyzing professional development opportunities to enhance my understanding of industry practices and their relevance to my academic and career goals. By answering detailed questions about a seminar or webinar, I gained skills in evaluating the credentials of presenters, summarizing key topics, and identifying the most impactful lessons. Reflecting on the content’s relationship to my coursework and degree helped me draw meaningful connections between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Additionally, the assignment encouraged me to articulate the most significant takeaways and communicate their value to peers, fostering a deeper appreciation for continuous learning and its role in personal and professional growth. This process sharpened my analytical and communication skills while reinforcing the importance of engaging with professional development opportunities to stay informed and competitive in my field.

Buf 4900: Internship: Professional Development Critique #1:

“UnMukt: Science and Art of Design Thinking”

Buf 4900: Internship: Professional Development Critique #2:

“Celebrating 75 Years of Johnson Publishing Company: Beauty, Fashion, and Culture”

Buf 4900: Internship: Africa’s Fashion Diaspora: A Queen’s Tale collection, silk “Oshun” Caftan

The midterm project for BUF 4900 requires students to visit FIT’s Africa’s Fashion Diaspora exhibit at the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology. The assignment involved analyzing the exhibit’s purpose, its curators, sponsors, and its cultural significance in exploring Black diasporic fashion. We selected a garment from the exhibit, applying eight design elements such as line, balance, and proportion to evaluate the garment’s artistic and cultural meaning. Additional focus is placed on fabric textures, and visual influences within the garment, connecting African dress to broader issues like music, societal influences, politics, and media. Original thought and critical analysis are emphasized, and submissions must meet strict academic integrity guidelines with no late work accepted.

Buf 4900: Internship: Job interview prompt