Camryn Rabideau
Hometown: Burrillville, Rhode Island
Degree Program: Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Design
Anticipated Graduation Year: 2013
Why did you choose TMD?
TMD unexpectedly fell into my lap as the perfect major. I wanted something exciting and fresh, where I could express both my creativity and passion for writing. Pair that with my love of clothing and glamour and the result is a very happy TMD major.
What inspired you to pursue this career path?
There was no earth-shattering, bright-light epiphany. There was just an understated moment browsing the course catalog when I realized I should be in TMD. I said to myself, "Oh, why didn't I think of that before?" as if it was the clearest choice in the world.
Why did you choose URI?
Originally, I didn't choose URI. My freshman year I attended Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire. However, I knew very quickly what they offered wasn't what I was looking for. I needed a creative, diverse environment where I could be inspired through interaction with interesting and vivacious people from all walks of life. That's what brought me back to my home state, and it was one of the best decisions I've made.
What has been the best part of your studies at URI?
I particularly thrive on the flexibility the TMD program offers in terms of professional electives. We are required to take at least 9 credits in another department (I chose journalism!) to further increase our final marketability. I love being able to take classes outside that major that widen my skill base!
What's been the best part of your whole experience at URI?
I can't pinpoint one best part of my college experience. The whole experience itself is what has made my time here enjoyable. The people, classes, and opportunities, all mixed together, are what make up an ideal collegiate adventure.
What has surprised you most about URI?
The personal investment of my professors has been URI's most pleasant surprise. More than once, I've had a professor say to me, "I'd love the chance to sit down and talk about your future with you." This level of personal interest isn't supposed to exist at "big schools," but I was thrilled to falsify that myth.
What do you think of the faculty at URI?
The faculty in my major are wonderful; there's simply no other word to describe them. Each professor brings his or her own unique experiences into the classroom. Whichever direction I want to take my degree, there's a faculty member who has been there. I feel comfortable approaching our professors, even ones who I've never had in class.
What do you consider the biggest strengths of your particular program at URI?
The size of the TMD department is quite perfect. There are not so many students that you become another face in Edwards Auditorium. The staff learn, and remember, your name. However, the program is not so small that you won't meet new people each semester. Meeting new people means encountering new ideas, ambitions, and points of view.
What kind of internships, experiential learning opportunities, or real-life experiences have you had?
My sophomore year I worked as a back-stage intern at the StyleWeek Providence fashion shows. My job was to dress models and assist the designers in the hectic rush before each show. Every night for a week, this internship gave me the adrenaline rush that I want from my career; it cultivated my newly blossomed desire to work in the industry. This past semester, I was the teaching assistant for TMD 240, The Development of Contemporary Fashion. My role was to provide the extra guidance that students are sometimes nervous to ask a professor for. Working with Dr. Welters, I learned a lot about myself, my peers, and the overall ambition of URI students.
What's your "Big Idea"?
I want to be the next Anna Wintor. I've set my eyes on the field of fashion publications, and that's where I want to leave my mark. I want to be right in the middle of the frenzy - shaping, twisting, dancing along with the whirlwind that is 21st century fashion! I want to be part of the next big movement, whatever it may be. Fashion changes every day, and I'd love to be able to capture it from a loft in NYC and write it down for future generations to relish.
What would you say to someone undecided about where to go to school for your particular major/program?
Don't be distracted by what everyone else thinks. Don't let someone else tell you that the "dream" is to go to Central St. Martins. Is it right for you? You shouldn't rule out schools that aren't "brand name" until you check them out for yourself. There are gems out there, but they're hidden well!
