Student: Julia (18) from Mexico
Program: Summer Live 2011
Precollege Courses: HFS 180 Fabric Styling for Fashion & HDE 112 Graphic Design for Parties, Events and Fashion Promotions

Describe your personal stlye.
This is a funny question because in my hometown my mother would always say to me, “Are you sure you are wearing that?” Then I would respond, “Why shouldn’t I?!” Most people are afraid of trying new things and in this case – looks. I love mixing colors. I do not follow trends.But of course, as every other girl in the world passionate for clothes and styling, I love to buy really great accessories from exclusive fashion designers. I think confidence is most defined by how you look. I believe in me and when people say I look great, I immediately know that it is not my bag, skirt or shoes (even if it helps) – it is me who transmits that sensation of greatness.

Where do you go on breaks from class?
I love going to SOHO and the meatpacking district, when I’m not at FIT. I always find a seat at a cafe to have a snack and just sit there with my ipod…

What are your favorite things about FIT?
Besides my classes, I love how people here are so passionate about what they do. The all arrive here with their dreams and want to be successful. They all just go for it!

Who or what inspires you?
My dad! he once taught me that live is what happens when we are busy making plans. So every morning I wake up and repeat to myself, “Carpe diem.”  I live for the days I cannot put into word because at the end of the day, my dad would always be right – our present is the only things we have and we should spend out time doing what we love the most.

What do you want to do after college?
I started working as a fashion assistant at the age of 14 at a local magazine. Many people wouldn’t bet on me for a greater opportunity in the media just because of my age. Ever since, I have never stopped following my goals – I know what I am capable of! Now it’s 4 years later and I am currently the Fashion Director of a Mexican Magazine. People ask me how I got here. It’s pretty simple – I never gave up. I believed in me. And right now, I think this is the beginning of greater things and I have faith they will come. Meanwhile, I am trying to increase my knowledge by continuing my studies and I shall keep doing what I love the most – my job.