FIDM Students talk about how they chose their majors, what inspires them, and how FIDM is helping them achieve their career goals.
FIDM Merchandise Product Development Student
Madelynn Matichak
Merchandise Product Development Student Madelynn Matichak landed a six-month internship at Chanel in New York City. She works in the public relations department and assists with all editorial requests!
Tell us a little about yourself: I'm 20 years old and from Chicago. I moved to LA to attend FIDM and have now completed all of my classes towards my Merchandise Product Development degree and am currently interning with Chanel in New York City.
Tell us about your internship with Chanel: I'm interning full-time in the Fashion PR department, primarily for the Ready-to-Wear/Haute Couture Coordinator.
How did you get the internship? Networking. FIDM stressed the importance of networking from day one, and it's completely true. I put myself out there, made the right connections and went out of my comfort zone to consider internships that weren't just product development-related. While my background didn't include experience in public relations, I made it clear that I was willing to learn, and would do anything they needed done.
How did you respond when you found out you got it? I was ECSTATIC. For me, Chanel has always been my dream company, so my over-the-top excitement was only natural.
What are your responsibilities? I assist with all editorial requests, coordinating with Chanel Paris to receive and send out samples for all major publications. I keep track of all credits that go to print, maintaining monthly credit charts. Additionally, I've created trend reports and competitor analysis strategy presentations.
What do you like best about it? Having the opportunity to learn from, and to be a part of one of the top fashion houses in the world is a perk in itself. The PR fashion group at Chanel has really created an amazing learning experience and work environment for their interns.
How did you know FIDM was the right college for you? I originally had my heart set on moving to NYC right out of high school, however, after learning more about FIDM's Merchandise Product Development program I completely changed direction. Aside from having the major that I wanted, the Admissions Advisors played a key role in my desire to attend FIDM as well as the DEBUT Runway Show, which I attended prior to beginning school.
How did you decide on your major? I wanted a program that incorporated both design and business, and FIDM's Product Development major provided the perfect combination. I saw Product Development to be the major that would open the most doors for me in the future. It incorporated marketing, business, and design classes, as well as trend forecasting. I knew this major would be helpful whether I wanted to go into design, merchandising, product development, or entrepreneurship.
How do you feel FIDM prepared you for what you're doing now?
The primary way that FIDM prepared me for this internship is the responsibility and leadership skills it gave me. Finishing my A.A. at FIDM in 6 quarters was very intense and it forced me to be organized and perform well under pressure to meet deadlines.
What is your biggest goal right now? My biggest goal right now is finishing this 6-month internship with strong contacts and references. I have great relationships with my supervisors and I look forward to working with them in the future. I am also currently focusing on my next steps once this internship ends, which includes applying for my Bachelor's Degree in Marketing/PR.
Do you have a passion for the industry like Madelynn? Find out about FIDM's 20 creative majors.
