They work within the limitations of budget, machinery, fabrics and market. They create ideas under the pressure of time and competition. Predicting what people want and being the first with an idea are important in this field. The Apparel Design Field Experience is a cooperative program between the Apparel, Interiors, Housing and Merchandising Department, apparel manufacturers, and qualified junior and senior students who are preparing for careers in apparel design. There are two phases to the program which is offered once each year during summer term.
Students submit applications during fall term.
Winter term applicants are interviewed, accepted and participate in a 1 credit Career Development seminar to prepare for their internship placement. During spring term, students seek and obtain placements and participate in another 1 credit Career Development seminar. Placement is determined by mutual agreement of company personnel manager, the university supervisor, and the student. During the employment period, supervision is directed by personnel in the employing company. Contact between the student and university supervisor is maintained by weekly written reports and during the employment period by an on-site visit from the supervisor when the student is located in a city within reasonable travel distance of the university.