My interest in fashion begin at age 14. I began by making jewelry. From there I progressed to clothing. I would sketch the ideas I saw in my mind. I made a few of them, but mostly sketched. At age 18, when I  graduated, I wanted to attend CCAD; but I did not have a portfolio, so I figured oh well, I guess I will not be doing that. But I never stopped sketching. 

     I pursued a career in Medical Laboratory Tech-      nology, and worked in the field for three years. After three years and life circumstances, I decided not to continue. An opportunity came, and I decided to attend Barbizon School of Fashion Merchandising. I attended for almost two years but was unable to complete my final semester. I then decided to get my certificate in Data Entry. After receiving my certificate, I worked as a data entry operator through a temporary job service. I continued to sketch. Soon after, I was sent to the state of Ohio on a temporary job assignment. After a few months there, I was hired as an intermittent. After a year, I was hired as a permanent  employee. I never stopped sketching and I never gave up on my dream.

    In 2005 I had the opportunity to attend the con-  tinuing education classes at the school I had always long to attend, CCAD. I figured I could get the skills I needed to do a portfolio with hopes of one day enrolling as a full-time student. I was determined to make it happen. However, I was not able to continue; so I continued to work at my job with the state of Ohio, always desiring to return.

     When it was time to retire, people asked me, what   are you going to do? After some thought and careful consideration, I decided to return to school to get my degree in fashion design. I still did not know what I needed for a portfolio, so I decided to check things out. 

     Growing up, I knew I had a creative edge, so I had been creating other things over the years. Turns out, that it paid off, I could incorporate these items into my portfolio to make up the 20 required items needed for submission. I was also able to take a figure drawing class at CCAD, the semester before my portfolio was due, to refresh my skills and use those submittals for my portfolio as well. It was a success. I now had all I needed for a portfolio except six drawings, which I completed and was able to submit  my portfolio. I was accepted and the fulfillment of my dream began. It was a great journey! 

     CCAD has given me everything I need to help me become a successful designer. I have been introduced to various skills, techniques and technology that will help me express the ideas I once only sketched, in a presentable form. 

     Over the years I had envisioned fabrics for my garments that I never saw in the store, and figured I would need to make my fabric first, before producing the garment. CCAD has given me the knowledge and skill to make that happen by introducing me to surface design techniques and print software. I have also received the knowledge and skill of pattern making and illustration to help bring my designs to life.  I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to attend a school with a curriculum that had every  thing I needed, to help make my dream come true. It wasn’t  a road without challenges, but it was a journey worth taking.