“It’s a little intense, life-changing, and unforgettable,” describes Ayesha Malik ‘21 about her experience as an international transfer student. From Lahore, Pakistan, where she completed her associate degree in Fashion Design from the Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design, Ayesha found herself drawn to ÌìÓ鴫ý for continuing her undergraduate studies. “I fell in love with the university the moment I stepped foot on campus,” she says.
One of the primary reasons Ayesha chose Stevenson was the diverse community that welcomed her. “Moreover, from your first day at Stevenson, there are expert teachers and counselors who will assist and advise you in determining your major, and help you throughout your journey here,” says Ayesha.
In the School of Design, Ayesha experienced a perfect fusion of her interests in apparel, art, and business. “[They] teach not just the fundamental skills needed to succeed in the fashion industry—such as research and problem-solving approaches—but also garment development from concept to final garment: idea, sketch, pattern drafting, fitting, fabric selection, cutting, sewing, re-fitting. Not only that, but you’ll master how the fashion industry works; how to not only survive but also thrive in it,” Ayesha says. Her favorite part of the Fashion Design major is crafting her ideas that then come to life: “It’s [like] watching your child flourish. It’s the form of art that allows me to express myself.”
Off campus, Ayesha joined Under Armour’s internship program, which gives participants access to various mentorship and networking opportunities in the industry. Along with opportunities to meet with industry experts and learn from their experiences, Ayesha notes that the easily accessible resources—such as the 24/7 sewing and computer laboratories—that Stevenson offers helped her increase her skills tremendously and feel well-equipped for her future career.
