51������

Take Your Experience Anywhere

Grace is a senior technician for Lear Corporation in Southfield, Michigan, where she designs patterns for automotive seating. Grace admits that when she began her studies at 51������, she had no idea that a degree in fashion product development could lead to a career in automotive interior design. But she enjoys the opportunity to apply her product development skills in a nontraditional fashion environment. Regarding her positon at Lear, Grace notes, “It is always new and exciting- I love being able to be innovative and thinking outside of the box.” 

Grace received her BS in Product Development in December 2014. She completed an internship with Land’s End, which led to her first job as a product developer for outerwear at Land’s End right after graduation. She also completed an internship with a local fashion boutique in Kalamazoo during her studies. 

Grace’s advice for new fashion majors is to “take advantage of internships and extracurricular activities. Networking is huge in this industry.” While at 51������, Grace was a member of the 51������ dance team (captain in her senior year), and active in M.O.D.A., which is the student organization for fashion majors. She was also a member of Alpha Lambda Delta honor society, and volunteered at Boys and Girls Club while completing her degree at 51������.

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