Apparel Studies Graduates Offer Advice to Students

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Ashley McCormack, of G-III Apparel Group and this year’s Young Alumni Award winner from the Bumpers College, was one of the panelists.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Five alumnae of the apparel studies program in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas recently visited with current students to provide career advice and answer questions.

The panel discussion and networking event was held at the Inn at Carnall Hall and featured graduates working in apparel merchandising and product development. The panelists included:

• Alexis Anderson, buyer at Ross Stores
• Leslie Claud Freeman, owner of SoHo in Rogers
• Brittany Doherty, buyer at Walmart
• Ashley McCormack, designer at G-III Apparel Group
• Anna Taylor, designer for Go Near Ministry.

Donna K. Graham, Bumpers College director of employee relations, moderated the discussion.

The panelists were asked about taking steps toward a career while in college.

Anderson, of Ross Stores, emphasized internships.

“Employers are looking for graduates who have already stuck their toes in the water,” she said.

Another topic was necessary skills to work in apparel and retail.

Freeman, the owner of SoHo, said the key is passion. Other panelists agreed, saying in order to do well in any job, in any profession, employees must be passionate about it.

The next question covered interviews.

Doherty, a Walmart buyer, said, “As soon as you get out of college, start interviewing. If you’re not working at it and networking, it’s an automatic red flag.”

Graham asked the panelists if LinkedIn, a professional social media site, was necessary for students. The entire panel agreed “yes.”

“I make connections with people every day on LinkedIn,” said McCormack, G-III designer. “With the help of this site, I had a job in New York City within two weeks of moving.”

The panelists shared stories of executive clothing designers and retail experiences, with Taylor, a designer for Go Near Ministry, adding, “It’s not always fun, but it’s completely worth it.”

Following the discussion, panelists stayed for a reception to visit with students about their careers and future plans.