Expert: Todd Johnson - 3/27/2010

Question
Hello Todd,

I recently graduated with an associate's degree in Fashion Merchandising in New York and moved to Miami to continue my education and explore the industry in this growing city. I am not sure about how to continue with my studies. I do not know if I should transfer my credits and obtain a bachelor's in the same program (Fashion Merchandising)or if choosing another major, one that is related to the one I already have and want to do in the future, would be my best option. I have already been to a school that offers my program, but they have not shown real interest on helping me figure out what would be the best path for me to follow. I actually feel like I am being rushed and pressured by them.
My ultimate career goal is to become a fashion/trend forecaster which is, basically, researching and reporting for the fashion industry (magazines, trade publications.)I figured that a journalism degree, in combination with my Fashion Merchandising degree, could help me tremendously. Writing has always been a passion of mine and it could, also, present a challenge since English is not my first language.
The down side of pursuing this second major is that the classes I took for my Associate's are not transferable and I would have to start as a freshman to obtain the very needed Bachelor's degree.
Any advice??
This situation has been making me very stressed and preoccupied. I would appreciate very much any suggestions or insights on this.

Thank you,
Iraylys

Answer
Iraylys,

As you might guess, there is no one right answer to your question. As to the school that you feel is pressuring you, you should not feel pressured into anything. I would strongly suggest that you look at other schools where you do not feel pressured into making a decision. Only you should be the one making the decision based on what is best for you.

If you feel a bachelors degree is important for your plans, and if you are sure your current credits would not transfer to another program, then I think your best option is to get your 4 year degree in fashion merchandising. After that you can take classes in writing in a non-degree program. The most important thing for journalism is knowing how to write well and you don't necessarily need classes for that. You should practice writing every day to improve your skills. You might also try writing small articles for fashion magazines and submitting them. They may not all be accepted but keep submitting and you may get something accepted. This will allow you to get a foot in the door in the publishing world.

If you are not sure whether your credits will transfer to a new major, such as journalism, I would contact several programs in your area and ask the admissions department of that school to evaluate your current transcript for their opinion.

Good luck.