Alumni
Alumna Karen Nguyen Promoted at Liverpool Jeans
Nghi (Karen) Nguyen graduated in 2016 with her Merchandise Product Development degree. She was promoted within her first five months working at Liverpool Jeans Co. in Los Angeles County, and is now in production.
Tell us a little about yourself: I am the mother of a lovely three-year-old boy, and I am very family-oriented.
Tell us what a typical day is like in production: Very busy! From the time I step foot into the office to when I leave, there is no down time. As a production assistant, I make sure production is accurate and punctual. I have to ensure that all samples and other approvals are sent in a timely manner, both to and from the factory.
What do you love the most about what you do? I was originally hired as an assistant technical designer (what I majored in), however they needed help in production, so I became a production assistant. Being in production, I work closely with all departments (creative design, technical design, sales, customer service, QC, warehouse, etc.) along with our factories. I love interacting with all departments; this helps me learn a lot about the industry and how it works, and decide which department I would like to eventually work for.
How do you feel FIDM prepared you for what you are doing now? Each class is designed to teach you everything in that subject within that quarter. It is imperative that you attend EVERY class; you cannot miss one! I have utilized/seen everything taught. There are no unnecessary classes.
Any advice for current FIDM Students? Work hard, take a lot of notes (you’ll need them!). Don’t take the class just to pass. Save your books and make notes of your resources. You may need to reference them for work.
What is your biggest goal right now? After receiving my first promotion five months in, I would like to continue to learn as much as I can, and grow in the industry.
Anything else you’d like to share? After my first quarter at FIDM, I found out I was pregnant. I thought that was the end of my college education. However, the OC staff was very kind, helpful, and understanding. I cannot thank them enough. They motivated me to continue my education. I eventually took a quarter off and became a part-time student. It was hard being a mother, working two jobs, and going to school at the same time with all of my family across the country, but somehow I did it. No matter what life throws at you, with the dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goal :)
Categories: Merchandise Product Development Alumni Careers
