PSSPFP350 - Special Project: Experiential Learning in the Fashion Industry - Fashion and Accessory Design

Experiential Learning

Semester Credits: 3

Contact Hours: 150

Prerequisites: Cover letter, CV, portfolio of previous work, and material pertinent to the chosen area, interview.

Description: 3 semester credits. This placement allows the student to interact with the local fashion economy through FLY Fashion Loves You, the retail store operated by the students and faculty members of FAST. FLY features creations of emerging designers, high-quality vintage and consignment clothing and accessories, as well as unique handcrafted pieces made by FAST students. This special project involves proposing, designing, and producing high-quality garments and accessories for FLY, whose merchandise sales generate scholarships for future fashion students. Duties include but are not limited to merchandise analysis for brainstorming, design proposals, and garment and accessory production in the laboratory spaces of FAST, the academic department that houses FLY. Garments produced will permanently remain at FLY for placement in window displays, photoshoots and other special installations throughout the seasons. EL hours may be distributed from Monday through Friday. This placement may require shifts that take place on weekends, or ongoing research-based activities for remote placements. This special project course features experiential learning hours with our Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI). CEMI are dynamic learning environments created to foster learning through a structured interaction with the community. Remote option students will gain international community exposure through a virtual setting.
Students will be involved in learning by doing through real projects and integration with the local population and territory in order to remove cultural and learning barriers as well as to develop a strong likelihood for success in life.
The experiential learning hours are fully supervised by instructors who track students step by step during their learning experience, monitor and advise according to student needs, and support student initiative. This unique learning model allows students to benefit from an all-encompassing educational experience based on theory and practice in real enterprises, learning of comprehensive operational processes, problem-solving, leadership, and management. Main tasks: Merchandise analysis, design proposals, sketching and rendering creations, product prototyping, garment and accessory production, cost and mark up management, emerging designers research and analysis, participation in promotional events, final portfolio.
 Additional materials/Dress code: Business casual attire for dress code. Not applicable to remote option.
 Prerequisites: Cover letter, CV, portfolio of previous work, and material pertinent to the chosen area, interview.