NYC Students Leverage Fashion Week for Career Growth Opportunities

New York Fashion Week (NYFW) concluded last month, but for college students in the city, the event marks the beginning of new opportunities rather than an end. The glitz and glamour of the week serve as a launchpad for aspiring professionals eager to enter the fashion industry. For many, it is a chance not only to witness high fashion up close but also to gain practical experience, network, and take significant steps toward their future careers.

This year, we spoke with three students from New York colleges who are already applying the lessons learned during Fashion Week to propel their ambitions. Their experiences highlight the diverse paths students can carve out in one of the world’s most competitive creative environments.

Matt Barsallo: From Campus to Catwalk

At Long Island University, Matt Barsallo, a graphic design student, has developed his skills behind the camera and computer screen. He initially built connections while creating graphics for the LIU men’s soccer team, a skill set that eventually led him to NYFW.

Barsallo’s journey began when he attended a clothing release party for Perspective Saints, where he met the company’s founder, Anthony. “After the release party, I mentioned my design work, and it turned into a collaboration for Fashion Week,” Barsallo explained.

He contributed graphics to the brand’s showcase, blending his interests in photography and design. “Photography helps me connect with people. I introduce myself as a graphic designer while doing photography work,” he noted.

Barsallo values the networking opportunities presented by Fashion Week. “Everyone comes here,” he said, mentioning new contacts from across the country. He is now set to work on a video project for the Afghan Cup, further expanding his portfolio while continuing his work with LIU soccer.

Desmond Samms: Launching a Brand

While Barsallo leveraged connections, Desmond Samms from St. John’s University took a bold step by launching his own fashion show. A marketing student from Los Angeles, Samms founded his brand, TAGD, and made his NYFW debut this year.

The inspiration for his show emerged unexpectedly after attending a pop-up event for another brand. “Seeing that experience motivated me to create something in Manhattan,” he shared. Shortly after, he received an invitation to participate in the “Under Pressure” fashion show on September 20 in Chelsea.

“I always say the smallest opportunities lead to the greatest blessings,” Samms emphasized. His debut showcased the GAMEDAY collection, which has garnered significant excitement. “I think I was one of the youngest brand owners there,” he remarked, noting the positive reactions from attendees.

Samms credits New York for teaching him resilience and self-promotion. “You gotta be your own biggest supporter,” he stated, as he prepares to expand his brand’s reach.

Chloe LaBel: Finding a New Path

For some students, Fashion Week clarifies their aspirations. Chloe LaBel, a student at the Fashion Institute of Technology, has seen both sides of the event. With experience as an intern and now as a freelance worker, she has gained insight into the New York fashion scene.

Working with The Hilton Group, a fashion public relations company, LaBel was responsible for checking in guests and guiding them during the shows. “This year, I was more involved on-site and got to direct some of the interns,” she explained.

While her experience reaffirmed her passion for art and history, it also opened her eyes to the world of event planning. “I learned a lot about event planning, which I found unexpectedly enjoyable,” LaBel said.

Now serving as co-president of FIT’s Student Activities Board, LaBel plans to maintain her connections from Fashion Week. “My supervisors have been amazing mentors, always supportive of my career exploration,” she added.

The experiences of Barsallo, Samms, and LaBel illustrate how New York Fashion Week serves as more than just a showcase of high fashion. For students, it is an essential stepping stone in their professional journeys, providing unique opportunities to learn, network, and grow. As they move forward, these young creatives are shaping their futures in an industry defined by innovation and ambition.