The Kent State School of Fashion Master of Fashion Industry Studies program offers unique opportunities for students seeking deeper insights into the fashion industry, blending marketable skills across disciplines for a well-rounded experience. Hear from one of the M.F.I.S. program's 2024 graduates, Jodi Frontino, who was able to share her experiences in this program and how it ultimately led to her job as assistant buyer with Burlington.
"The M.F.I.S. program is strong due to its well-rounded coursework. In addition to learning about the ins and outs of the fashion industry, students are taught aspects of business and entrepreneurship, research methods and various design methods as well as other areas of discipline."
Tell me about your research interests and why it is important to you.
Growing up, I spent a lot of time shopping at off-price retailers. I found it thrilling to search for unique pieces of clothing that were both affordable and stylish. The time that I spent in these stores over the years inspired me to focus my research on consumer behavior within the realm of off-price retail. Despite the fact that many others enjoy looking for treasure at such retailers, very little research focuses on the topic. Thus, I wanted to further academia to help better off-price retailers with my research during my time at Kent State.
Why is Kent State’s Master of Fashion Industry Studies the best place for you to do this research?
Kent State’s School of Fashion is the best place to conduct such research due to the support that students receive from faculty, as well as the resources available to students. The experienced and knowledgeable faculty help students every step of the way throughout the research process, and push students to become stronger researchers. Additionally, students are surrounded with various research to ease the research process and provide up to date information on their research interests.
What advice would you give to students looking at the M.F.I.S. program at Kent State?
Understand the program’s offerings and ensure that it aligns with your long-term goals. If you’re not sure, reach out to faculty members that can help you take the correct courses to align with said goals.
How do you manage the demands of your M.F.I.S. program and practicum and still have a personal life?
I always treated my coursework like a standard nine-to-five job. Between classes and independent coursework, I kept a strict schedule of beginning my work/classes at nine and ending at five. Sure, some days were longer and some shorter. However, this schedule allowed my evenings to be free to spend time with friends or do any other extracurricular activities. Work/life balance is so important in graduate school!
When you look back at your education experience in the School of Fashion, what will you always remember?
I’ll always remember the relationships that I built with both the faculty of the School of Fashion as well as my classmates. By the time that I completed my degree, I felt as though these people were family.
What makes Kent a great city to live and learn?
Kent is a great city for students to live and learn due to the vibrant community that makes it up. The city is bustling with college students that keep the area lively, and the many local businesses makes it a unique and exciting environment. Many of these small businesses make great places to study or meet up with friends, and there’s plenty of nature to surround yourself in when you need a break from the books. Overall, Kent is a wonderful and supportive community.
What are you doing now?
I’m an assistant buyer in the moderate woven tops department for Burlington Stores, Inc.! I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for M.F.I.S.