Alison Katz, an adjunct faculty member in LIM College’s Marcuse School of Graduate Studies, has worked for several well-known companies in the business of fashion and lifestyle, including Nespresso, Macy’s, Saks Off Fifth, and Anthropologie. While teaching her Marketing Metrics course, she uses many tools, including social media, to foster a strong sense of community among online students and enhance the learning experience.
Please tell us a little about your professional background and current position.
My background is in merchandising, buying, planning and digital. I currently work at Nestle Nespresso in demand and supply planning for boutiques.
How would you describe your approach to teaching?
I take pride in both my retail and teaching background as someone that can guide and shape our future merchant trailblazers. I employ a student-centered learning environment through a focus on hands-on discovery and exploration. Although I set high standards and have high expectations, I ask my students to set their own goals and take steps toward achieving those goals each week. I encourage each student to empower themselves, so that they develop self-confidence and generate ideas for success.
How do you integrate your professional experience into your classes?
I create a learning environment that is rich in resources so that students can have a hands-on, action-oriented experience. I want students to think outside of the box by crafting new approaches to topics from the past and present to prepare for the future. Students learn through authentic, real-world experiences and application of knowledge through my weekly seminar along with industry leader guests who share their expertise, creativity, and innovation.
What are some of the ideal characteristics of a successful fashion business professional?
Be creative and original. Have bold ideas and an attention to detail. Develop the ability to work hard, stay focused, and be flexible, as the industry is always changing. Effective communication is key and sharp negotiating skills are a must.
Why is it valuable to have a master’s degree?
A master’s degree expands your knowledge in a particular field, allowing you to become a leader and educator in the workplace. In a highly competitive global market, a master’s degree sets you apart from other job candidates.
Many graduate programs combine coursework with talents such as critical thinking, analytic ability, and time management, which are transferrable skills across industries. Earning a graduate degree is also evidence of persistence, determination, and intellectual competency, all of which are sought-after qualities. Choosing to pursue a master’s degree also shows traits of initiative and commitment, which will make you a successful future leader.
How do you create a sense of community and encourage interaction among the students in your online classes?
The virtual classroom allows me to incorporate social media as a complement and enhancement to traditional teaching approaches. This helps deepen conversations and increases communication with students. Adding a social component to the virtual dialogue has allowed students to blossom. Social media is an area of high interest for most students, and it is where they see that collaboration, communication, and connections are all possible.
