Home city: Johannesburg, South Africa

Program: Fashion Merchandising and Retail Management

   

Please tell us about the internship you’re currently completing. 

I am completing a Buying Internship at SMCP North America for their brand, Sandro. I work in the men's and women's departments for apparel and accessories. Some of the tasks include generating reporting on sales and bestsellers, trend analysis, and store visits. I’m also supporting the team with creating competitive/trend analysis for upcoming seasons to communicate with the Paris team and collaborating with cross functional departments on ad hoc tasks.

How does this internship relate to your master’s program?

My master's is in Fashion Merchandising and Retail Management. Buying is a major function of the merchandising department, which directly correlates to my studies. 

 

How did your LIM College classes prepare you for what you are doing at your internship?

I took classes in Spreadsheet Modelling (Excel), Retail Math, and Merchandising and Retail Management, which have really prepared me for this buying internship. I use all my learnings—especially Excel!—in my day to day.

  

Why is taking advantage of the CPT (Curricular Practical Training) benefit for international students important?

CPT grants international students the opportunity to intern in the US. This allows you to gain valuable fashion-related experience, so you can put your learnings from college into practice, along with the bonus of adding the experience to your resume prior to graduation. CPT is also a fantastic way to start working at a company who could keep you on for OPT (Optional Practical Training)!

What are your career goals? 

My short-term goal is to work as a Fashion Buyer in women's apparel. Long term, I want to get into the sustainable fashion space!

  

What’s it like to go to school in New York City?

Going to school in NYC is like a dream! The city is full of creative energy—you will never feel bored, and you will connect with many like-minded students. It also helps that NYC is a global fashion capital, creating so many opportunities to engage with the industry.