As previously mentioned, as part of CollegeFashionista’s commitment to empowering our readers and Style Gurus, we have launched the CollegeFashionista Mentorship Program. We have paired some of our current rockstar Style Gurus with CollegeFashionista alumni to act as mentors.
Each month, we will be checking-in with and highlight some of the mentor-mentee pairings to see what they have learned from one another through the process and sharing this insight with you the reader!
Eva Thomas, University of Minnesota
What is your favorite part about being a mentee? My favorite thing about being a mentee is talking with someone who was in my shoes not too long ago and who has very similar goals to mine! It’s great to have Erika there for advice and guidance, especially as I’m nearing the end of my last semester in college.
What is one thing you have learned from your mentor? I have learned so many valuable things from Erika, but I think the most important thing she has taught me is to really go for your dreams and things will fall into place when the time is right.
Describe your mentor in three words. Funny. Helpful. Kind.
Erika Harwood, Writer at MTV News
What is your favorite part about being a mentor? Being able to meet someone who’s like-minded and wants to work in fashion.
What is one thing you have learned from your mentee? I should try to make my Instagram cooler (she never told me this per se, but hers is so much better than mine!)
Describe your mentee in three words. Stylish (though that’s probably a given). Hardworking. Funny.
Sam Yohannes, Ryerson University
What is your favorite part about being a mentee? Getting internship advice that applies across many fields from a CollegeFashionista alumna, who has gone through the post-grad job search and is now working in her field, has been invaluable and reassuring.
What is one thing you have learned from your mentor? Danielle taught me that having a range of responsibilities (i.e. social media mgmt., blogging, photography etc.) displayed on a resume is vital and can help set you apart from other candidates during the application process. Try your hand at a new task that may initially seem daunting—not only will it enhance the ‘experience’ and ‘skills’ sections of your CV, but you could end up liking and even excelling in it.
Describe your mentor in three words. Driven. Hardworking. Knowledgeable.
Danielle Nahan, PR Specialist
What is your favorite part about being a mentor? Neither of us are based in New York and desperately want to be. It is nice to have someone in a similar boat.
What is one thing you have learned from your mentee? This girl has an impressive resume. If you are looking for an intern, hire her. But really, it is great to hear about her determination and passion for the industry. She is proactive and it will take her places!
Describe your mentee in three words. Determined. Creative. Good-hearted.
Courtney Pelot, University of Wisconsin-Madison
What is your favorite part about being a mentee? I love being a mentee because this is such a unique experience to learn, gain insight and grow. Danielle and I have had a blast getting to know each other these past few weeks, and she’s proven to be helpful and supportive in multiple facets of my life, from school to job hunting and pageant prep.
What is one thing you have learned from your mentor? I’ve learned that everyone’s career path is different and that your first job might not be and doesn’t have to be your job forever.
Describe your mentor in three words. Supportive. Wise. Inspiring.
Danielle Smith, Wholesale Assistant Planner, Free People
What is your favorite part about being a mentor? I always feel so uplifted after speaking to Courtney. She is a beam of positive energy! She is so passionate and full of energy and excitement all the time—it is contagious!
What is one thing you have learned from your mentee? Courtney exemplifies what it is to be a go-getter. She has laser focus on the goals she is pursuing (such as becoming the next Miss Wisconsin!) and she truly gives all she has to the experience, knowing that the more she puts into it the more she will get out of it.
Describe your mentee in three words. Sincere. Vivacious. Driven.