{"id":26767,"date":"2022-05-16T16:47:16","date_gmt":"2022-05-16T20:47:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/textiles.ncsu.edu\/news\/?p=26767"},"modified":"2022-05-16T16:47:16","modified_gmt":"2022-05-16T20:47:16","slug":"meet-two-wilson-college-of-textiles-spring-connect-students","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/textiles.ncsu.edu\/news\/2022\/05\/meet-two-wilson-college-of-textiles-spring-connect-students\/","title":{"rendered":"Meet Two Wilson College of Textiles Spring Connect Students"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

By Meggie Metcalf<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Spring Connect program gives students the flexibility to choose how they spend their fall semester: working to gain valuable experience, <\/em>attending Prague Connect<\/a> or taking courses at a community college are just some of those options. Students who choose to take courses elsewhere before entering NC State in the spring are encouraged to work with Wilson College advisors to choose degree-applicable transfer courses. Read below to learn how two Wilson College Spring Connect students have maximized their time at NC State and the advice they give to other Spring Connect students. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amanda Giroux<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Graduated May 2022 <\/h6>\n\n\n\n
B.S. Fashion and Textile Management: Brand Management and Marketing<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Up Next: Production Coordinator for Kohl’s <\/h6>\n\n\n\n
\"Amanda<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tell us a little about yourself and why you chose to attend NC State and the Wilson College of Textiles. <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

When I was growing up, I really liked fashion. In third grade, I used to pick out a new outfit to  wear each night, taking time to pick out  accessories and hairstyles to go with it. As I grew up, that passion got stronger. As a sophomore in high school, I enrolled in an apparel class with a fantastic teacher. One day during class, a representative from the Wilson College came and talked to us about the academic programs. After that semester, my teacher left my high school and came to work at the Wilson College. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

During my senior year of high school, I was applying to colleges and like many, could not decide what I wanted to study. My former teacher offered to give me a tour of the Wilson College, and I fell in love with the intimate atmosphere; everyone was so friendly. The “number one college of textiles in the country” had a ring to it, and it felt very special. As a graduating  senior, I can say I am very happy and proud of my choice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What experiences have been the most impactful during your time at NC State and the  Wilson College of Textiles? How will your experiences impact your future career?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

I am more of a reading and history person, so coming to a STEM school was a tough choice. I  can say I have really enjoyed my classes at the Wilson College of Textiles. What helped me  most was meeting and becoming friends with my classmates. The friendships I have made at  this school have been really impactful and were especially helpful during the pandemic. I could not  have been as successful in my academic career without studying with my peers. Learning about the textile industry as a whole has been extremely beneficial to my education,  not only academically but also personally. I pay more attention to how I shop and am proud to say I am a sustainable consumer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the pandemic, job searching was very difficult. My friends and I struggled to search for  internships. When the textiles career fair came back in person, I got an interview with Kohl\u2019s, which led to being hired as a production coordinator; I will be moving to Milwaukee in the fall to  begin my training. I am grateful for the Wilson College of Textiles and for the platform I have  been given to learn and start my career in retail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What advice would you give to incoming Spring Connect students?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Do not be discouraged by a late start! You earned your spot and you are here. My first semester at NC State was tough. It was hard making friends and figuring out campus life. My sophomore year, I took the opportunity to get involved in school activities, which really helped me make friends and enjoy my experience overall. I am an active member of Phi Psi Textiles Fraternity and was an executive officer leader for one year. I am also a writer for Platform magazine, the fashion magazine at NC State. I have made many friends and both organizations are so much fun. I recommend getting involved! I also recommend looking for jobs and  internships as early as you can to begin building your resume because this will help with your future career. Good luck and Go Pack! <\/p>\n\n\n