Merchandising Degree? MINE!

The comfort of Manila was left behind five years ago now to rejoin family, pursue FIT and try for a career in the industry that makes me hyper excited. For awhile I thought I'd never get to study fashion merchandising.  I got the official diploma last December so the excitement from capping this thing off has pretty much worn off. Attending commencement exercises felt a bit silly and not having a job yet made it seem like a mockery. My family would have none of it so we went. Thank goodness for that! I would have regretted it if I hadn't gone. How often does one get the chance to graduate from famed Radio City Music Hall with the degree that feels right???

Watch the following speeches.

Marie Claire Fashion Director, Project Runway judge, FIT alumna and author, Nina Garcia.

Norma Kamali, '64 alumna and creator of the sleeping bag coat which has been reincarnated by many, many brands. Can you imagine winters without puffer coats???!?!

Allen Hasselfeld of Hasbro Industries, toy industry leader and maker of Mr. Potato Head. 

I'm bullet pointing my takeaways: 

• All you need to know is who you are
• Words matter, civility matters 
• Be citizens of the world
• Compassionate imagination
• Sensitive awareness
• Rebel in you, be your own rebel
• Hone it the right way
• Be your boldest
• Make some noise
• No doubts
• Create something new for the world
• Harness technology
• Wish of the love of what you do
• Never stop playing no matter the age

Many, many thanks to friends who were with me via live streaming and for encouraging me to be patient, proud and to simply own it. It took me some time to go ahead with this goal. Now it feels amazing to finally look back, I have done it all on my own!!!

Now, on to the next thing.... Picking the job and being good at it. I can't wait!!!!