Student
Student Hiral Patadia is Semifinalist in NRF National Scholarship Competition
Each year, the National Retail Federation Foundation offers its Next Generation scholarship to juniors and seniors at university member schools who are pursuing a career in retail. Amongst the 25 semifinalists this year is FIDM’s own Hiral Patadia, a Digital Marketing major from Riverside, CA. We caught up with Hiral to learn more about her experience so far.
After graduating from Martin Luther King High School in Riverside, Hiral headed to FIDM and earned her A.A. in Visual Communications. She is now pursuing a B.A. in Digital Marketing.
Tell us about the NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship: The NRF Next Generation Scholarship is a scholarship for students who are enrolled full time at an NRF qualified university who want to gain deeper insight in the retail industry. It offers an opportunity to network with executives and augment the knowledge to successfully launch a career in retail.
What was the application process like (what did you have to prepare for it) and how does it feel to be a semifinalist? As far as the application process went, each student had to submit an essay that showed their ability to think critically about a retail focused topic, a personal brand video, one letter of recommendation, and a transcript with a minimum GPA of a 3.0.
The written essay was to discuss key areas of opportunity (within any retailer) and develop a proposal for a new CSR initiative. This could have been achieved through the introduction of a new product, service, or partnership. For the preparation, I had to do an abundance of initial research to better understand this industry in order for me to make impactful strategies and decisions. It’s been very humbling to say I’m a part of phase 2 as one of the semifinalists and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to be at phase 3. I wish all the best to every other semifinalist as well!
You are currently a Bachelor's student in the Digital Marketing program. What are your career goals and how is FIDM helping to prepare you for the industry? As the world is emerging towards the digital space, it’s the greatest opportunity to learn certain tricks and skills of digital marketing. I’m in the process of starting my own skincare line, therefore this degree will be beneficial in understanding how to properly market through various social channels, such as, Facebook marketing, Youtube, Instagram, etc.
Anything else you’d like to share? I am thankful to be a part of this community here at FIDM. The resources, opportunities, and network offered are unmatched.
Categories: Digital Marketing Student
