Cultural Fellows

Major: Film and Media BS'27
Involvement on Campus: Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Orientation Leader

As a student of Film and Media, Baran is passionate about working behind and in front of the camera. She wanted to study abroad to meet new people and broaden her range of experiences and opportunities. The most important thing she learned during her first semester was to give herself permission to make mistakes—and to learn from them. “Students are at FIT to better themselves, but sometimes, you must make mistakes to learn.”

Baran advises new international students to socialize: “Talking to students from different backgrounds can help a lot. New York can sometimes get lonely, and you never know when you’ll meet your future best friend or coworker.”

Some FIT support services Baran enjoys are the Library, Computer Lab, and Health Services. She encourages students to seek help when they need it. In her first year at FIT, she changed her major from Fashion Business Management to Film and Media, and the college made the transition easy and stress-free.

Baran is proud of her filmmaking accomplishments and the recognition she has received in the classroom. In her free time, she loves both cooking and watching cooking shows. Fun fact about her name: Baran means “rain” in Farsi!

Major: Advertising & Marketing Communications BS ‘26 
Involvement on Campus: Orientation Leader, Resident Assistant, Student Tour Guide, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Black Student Union

Bupe’s interest in studying abroad comes from a desire to gain exposure and to experience cultures outside of Africa. She felt that leaving home would be a chance to grow and evolve as an individual. Before arriving at FIT, she was concerned about making friends and the cultural differences between herself and American-born students. She advises incoming international students to practice patience, as they may encounter people who lack knowledge of their home countries and should be prepared to have those uncomfortable conversations.

Bupe is proud of her on-campus leadership positions; in addition to being a Cultural Fellow, she has also served as an Orientation Leader and is currently a Resident Assistant. FIT is her dream school, so she is grateful for the opportunity to give back in a way that goes beyond being a student. 

In her first semester, Bupe learned the importance of networking with her classmates and instructors—forming these relationships is vital to a successful school experience. Bupe’s favorite things about FIT are the Style Shop and, of course, her classmates! FIT students constantly inspire her, and she yearns to continue to be engaged and immersed in the FIT community. 

Outside of school, Bupe is an avid gamer and loves to critique and analyze films. She is also a certified nail artist!

Major: Fashion Business Management BS'26
Minor: Fashion Styling
Involvement on Campus: Secretary of Blush Magazine, Resident Assistant, Tutor

Before joining FIT, Callie earned her Associate’s degree at SUNY Korea in Incheon. Studying in two different countries has broadened her cultural perspective and served as a source of inspiration.

Callie, having never been to the U.S. before, was worried about adjusting to a new country.  She wondered if cultural differences would be hard to navigate and if she would be able to make friends. She adapted quickly during the first year, and found New York City fascinating, and people here to be friendly and welcoming. Her experiences motivated her to apply herself and work hard.

She encourages students to join clubs, take on leadership roles, and participate in class. Asking questions and staying engaged with professors helped her feel more connected. It’s easy to make a wide range of friends—FIT has a very diverse student body. 
She advises to make friends with people from your home country, but not to limit yourself. Take time to explore the city and soak in everything it has to offer. Focus on learning and growth rather than striving for the idea that perfection and progress matter most. 
This is a time and place to create memories, and making the most of your experience in the U.S.

What Callie loves most about FIT is the fashionable and creative nature of her classmates! Being surrounded by stylish, and driven students is a source of inspiration. 

One of her proudest moments so far has been styling and managing garments for Blush Magazine’s "Indulgence" issue and seeing her work featured online.

Callie’s favorite things about New York City are the community events, especially summertime movie premieres in parks, and kayaking in the rivers. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe and culture, making exploring the city all the more enjoyable. The energy here is truly amazing!

Major: Fashion Business Management BS'27
Involvement on Campus: Runway 27 Accessories Director and Model

Dieya moved to New York with ambitions to grow, explore new cultures, and pursue her passions. After earning an Associate’s degree in Fashion Design, she transitioned into Fashion Business Management, which better aligned with her evolving interests in strategy, innovation, and the business side of fashion.

Before arriving at FIT, Dieya was most concerned about navigating life in a new country without her family, but she discovered that her adaptability and willingness to step outside her comfort zone helped. One of the most valuable lessons she learned in the first semester was to trust herself, even in moments of uncertainty.

She encourages new students to stay open to change and prioritize building connections: Meet new people, make friends, make plans, and you’ll figure out who you want to surround yourself with. Throughout her time at FIT, Dieya has learned the importance of empathy and patience, especially when working with people from different backgrounds and perspectives. 

Outside the classroom, Dieya enjoys playing tennis, trying new dishes, experimenting with recipes, and catching up with friends back home on video calls. Back home, she volunteers at animal shelters and homes for people with disabilities.

Fun facts about Dieya: she can do 10 push-ups, and strike up a conversation with just about anyone!

Major: Advertising and Marketing Communications BS'27
Minor: Economics 
Involvement on Campus: Resident Assistant, Presidential Scholars, Baker Scholars, Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society 

Dinachi was motivated to study abroad to experience a change in environment and personal growth, and has found New York to be the right place. She'll be furthering her international studies in 2026 while doing a semester in Paris through FIT’s study abroad programs.

During her first semester, Dinachi learned the value of stepping outside her comfort zone and embracing networking. She realized that talent only gets noticed when you’re willing to speak up and showcase it.
Her advice to new students is to get out and explore as much as possible—the more you experience the city, the quicker you’ll find your bearings and discover your favorite spots to eat, shop, and enjoy yourself.

At FIT, Dinachi feels a freedom and a push to explore her creativity. She never feels out of place, and there’s always something to do on campus. Dinachi is deeply involved in the FIT community.

She has gotten support on campus from many departments, including the Counseling Center, Career & Internship Services, and the Academic Skills Center. Dinachi especially recommends the free massages, acupuncture, and skin analysis offered by Health Services. 

Major: Communication Design AAS'26
Involvement on Campus: Runway 27 Graphic Design Chair 

Emilia was drawn to studying abroad by New York City's vibrant art scene. She was impressed by the art and design programs available in the City, believing that they offer a perspective that you can’t find anywhere else. 

Before starting at FIT, Emilia’s biggest concern was not being able to express her true self in English. Speaking in Spanish, her first language, made her feel more comfortable and confident, especially when speaking about her passions. She was afraid that the language barrier would keep her from connecting with others and from showing who she truly is. 

Emilia’s advice for incoming international students is not to worry about what others may think. Arriving in a new country with a different language, culture, and traditions can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t mean you have to change who you are to fit in. She encourages students to take pride in where they come from—your accent, style, and background are all part of what makes you unique. Cultural diversity is something to celebrate, and it’s one of the qualities that make FIT such a vibrant and inspiring community. Emilia also suggests living on campus during your first year if possible, as it’s a great way to meet new people and ease the stress of securing housing while adjusting to life in a new country.

Emilia is proud to have been elected Graphic Design Chair for Runway 27. Seeing her designs become part of the club’s visual identity and receiving positive feedback from her peers made the experience especially rewarding. Outside of class, Emilia enjoys working out, exploring street photography, and going out for matcha.

Major: Advertising and Marketing Communications AAS'26
Community Service: New York Cares

Evie’s desire to study abroad was shaped by her family's emphasis on importance of international education. She chose New York City for its fast-paced energy, which contrasted with the more relaxed lifestyle she experienced growing up in Malaysia. Being in the City has allowed her to connect with companies she never imagined she’d have the opportunity to work with.

Before beginning her studies, Evie had concerns about safety and the challenges of living independently for the first time. She began by exploring the city and taking the subway with friends first, which made solo excursions easier. Her first semester was also her first time living with roommates, which meant learning how to set boundaries and coexist with people you may not vibe with.

In addition to professional opportunities, Evie loves the sheer number of people she encounters in New York City. Multiple languages, cultures, and foods can be found within a few blocks. Ask her for recommendations of nearby Asian food spots! In her free time, Evie enjoys visiting museums, practicing Pilates, journaling, and cooking.

Major: Advertising and Marketing Communications BS ’25
Involvement on Campus: Runway27 PR chair

Heini is a passionate traveler who participated in student exchange programs throughout Europe during her elementary and high school years. Her interest in exploring new places and cultures led her to pursue studies in the U.S. Before arriving at FIT, she was worried about making friends. Finding people you click with may seem difficult at first, but it does eventually happen. Heini quickly found out how beautiful, diverse, and creative the people are here. Heini’s favorite things about living in NYC are the food and the overall atmosphere in the city. Neighborhoods have different vibes, and her favorite is the West Village.

The most important things Heini learned in her first semester? That she is competing against herself and shouldn’t overthink things too much. Making it through her first year without feeling overwhelmed has been a journey for her. She advises new international students to step out of their comfort zone occasionally: “You never know what opportunities you might encounter through FIT or elsewhere.”

Outside of school, Heini enjoys exploring NYC and its parks, trying new restaurants, reading, thrifting, working out, singing, and playing video games. 

Major: Jewelry Design AAS'26 
Community Service: Tech Support and Dance Teams at New Covenant Christian Ministries

Jenissi’s passion for Jewelry Design and her goal of earning a degree in the field inspired her to study abroad in New York. She believes the city offers opportunities for every type of career—and with determination and a compelling story, almost anything is possible.

Before arriving at FIT, she worried about adapting to a new environment. Once on campus, she quickly realized that building connections with teachers and peers was essential—and became a top priority during her first semester.
Her advice to incoming international students? Stay true to yourself. In a world full of diverse perspectives, authenticity is your greatest strength.

She has taken advantage of FIT’s support services, including International Student Services, the Library, and the Computer Lab. What she loves most about FIT is that all members of the college community have space and supportive environment for everyone to thrive.

Jenissi is a huge nature lover who spends much of her free time caring for animals and plants. It is the source of her current artistic inspiration! Her favorite foods include chapati, injera, and Chinese cuisine. A fun fact about her is that she often shops for shoes in the children’s section of most stores.

Major: Fashion Design BFA ’27

Jiwon is an energetic person excited to resume her role as a Cultural Fellow! After completing her AAS, she worked for a year in her field before returning to FIT. She is an experienced international student, having studied abroad alone in the Philippines and Japan since the age of 11. After experiencing culture shock at a young age, she shared her knowledge by mentoring Vietnamese students in Korea. After studying Japanese Literature and Education at universities in Korea and Japan, Jiwon wanted to study in the U.S. to find greater creative and professional opportunities. 

She was initially concerned about how language barriers might affect her classroom and social experiences on campus. Living and going to school in the U.S. has led to both positive and negative experiences. Jiwon advises international students faced with difficulties to remember their own determination and courage that lead to their decision to study abroad. Jiwon loves the diversity of the people in New York, which serves as a source of inspiration for her.

Major: Fashion Design BFA'26

Jose is truly a global citizen. Before calling New York City his home, he lived in Bolivia, Spain, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates. He dreamed of studying fashion design since age twelve, and with New York being one of the world's fashion capitals, FIT felt like the perfect place.

Before starting at FIT, Jose was worried about whether he’d succeed in his chosen major. Fashion Design was unlike anything he studied in high school, and he was unsure if he could keep up; But with practice and plenty of trial and error, he adapted and thrived.
During his first semester, Jose learned the importance of being open to making connections with people, and making friends along the way. He initially felt shy and intimidated by his classmates, thinking they were more experienced, but it turned out that everyone was figuring things out together, and suddenly, the whole experience felt much less daunting.
He advises new international students to be open-minded and curious. It’s easy to feel homesick and stick to what’s familiar, but New York City is full of creativity, culture, and people from all over the world, so try new things and get to know the people around you—it makes a huge difference!

What Jose loves most about FIT is how authentically people express themselves through fashion, makeup, jewelry, and more. The creativity is contagious, reminding him that fashion has no boundaries. In his free time, he loves exploring the city's art galleries with friends—each one offers something completely unique, and provides inspiration. He is also an avid doll collector— the rare 1970s Blythe is his next conquest!

Major: Fashion Business Management AAS'26
Community Service: Volunteer for NYC food banks and sustainability-focused clothing drives

Kash lived on three continents before turning 21, so her accent is a total mashup—sometimes even she gets confused! She chose to study abroad to push herself out of her comfort zone and experience fashion at a global level while living in an iconic fashion capital.

Before arriving at FIT, she was most concerned about making friends and adjusting to the city's super-fast pace. But during her first semester, she learned that everyone’s a bit lost, no matter how confident they look, and it’s okay to ask for help.
Kash advises incoming international students to avoid self-isolation. She encourages them to get out, join clubs, talk to people, and explore the city—you might be surprised by how welcoming it can be once you open up. She loves the incredible creative energy on campus, where every hallway, classroom, and project buzzes with talent and ideas.

Kash’s favorite thing about New York City is its diversity—you can walk a single block and hear five languages, smell ten different cuisines, and see endless fashion styles. Kash’s proudest FIT moment was being selected to present a trend forecast to industry guests. Outside of class, you’ll find her sketching fashion looks, thrifting, and people-watching in parks, always with an iced coffee in hand.

Major: Fashion Design BFA '27
Minor: Multi-Sensory Branding
Involvement on Campus: Indian Cultural Society, BollyMove Dance Team

Manya is both an international student and an FIT study abroad student! She began her first year of Fashion Design studies with the FIT in Florence program at Polimoda in Italy. Studying in the cradle of Renaissance was an unforgettable experience.

Manya was initially really concerned about whether she’d be able to fit in and make genuine friends. She was glad to have campus events and fairs that encourage students to take a break from their class schedules, have fun, and build new connections. She loves how diverse, vibrant, and fun the FIT community is, and a wide range of classes offered—even a Social Sciences course about Bollywood!
Manya advises new international students to stay open to all experiences, whether they’re good or bad. Every new moment is a chance to grow and adapt to life in a new country. 

She recommends FIT’s Health Services, where the on-campus nutritionist counseled her on adjusting to American food, and where she received the first aid after being stung by a wasp on her first day!

One of Manya’s proudest moments at FIT was placing third in her first design contest on campus, organized by Stetson company. It was a real challenge balancing her coursework and the contest, and it was rewarding to have her work pay off. Outside of school, Manya loves people-watching during her coffee runs, sketching, and playing “The Last of Us”.

Major: Illustration BFA'26
Minor: Creative Technology
Involvement on Campus: Student Activities Board

Masha has a strong sense of adventure and dreams of one day riding a motorcycle across the United States. This spirit of exploration, combined with a desire for expanded educational opportunities, inspired her to study abroad. She is an experienced international student, having attended both middle and high school in New York State before enrolling at FIT.

One of the things Masha loves most about FIT is that the campus occupies a single city block, which fosters a sense of a close-knit community. It feels like a second home, where you constantly run into friends and classmates. Naturally friendly and outgoing, Masha enjoys meeting new people—she encourages incoming international students not to hesitate to say hello!
The best tip that Masha gives to incoming international students is to attend as many FIT events as possible—they’re always fun and a great way to make friends. She particularly likes events hosted by the ISS Office, which focus on building connections with students who share similar experiences.

FIT student support services she recommends include the Tutoring Center, Writing & Speaking Studio, PrintFX, Library, Health Services, and the Food Pantry. 

When she’s not on West 27th Street, Masha enjoys spending time on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Brooklyn’s Greenpoint, and especially Coney Island, where she feels connected to its vibrant Russian-speaking community. In her free time, she loves knitting, DJing, biking, and drawing with her sister while listening to music.

Major: Fashion Design BFA'27

For Mirela, New York City is a place of opportunities in and outside the classroom. Traveling abroad and choosing to study at FIT was the right fit to make her dreams and ambitions a reality. Before starting, however, she was unsure how she’d adjust to the city’s fast pace or whether her chosen major would be right for her.

She learned to balance NYC’s energy, and find the time to slow down and take care of her mental health. She has a deep love for Fashion Design, and can’t imagine herself studying anything else. Mirela believes in the importance of self-care –push yourself too hard, and you might forget that you need to take care of yourself. It’s okay to put your well-being first!
She advises incoming international students to be open and connect with others. Everyone is adjusting just like you, and those connections make a big difference.

What she values most about FIT is the community—being surrounded by creative, passionate students from all over the world who constantly inspire her with their ideas and talents. 

The FIT student support services Mirela recommends are the Library, Career & Internship Services, Counseling Center, and Health Services. In her free time, Mirela enjoys going for walks, searching for the best coffee, vintage clothes, getting ice cream with friends, and soaking up the sun in a local park.

Major: Advertising and Marketing Communications BS ’27
Involvement on Campus: Resident Assistant, Runway27

Natalie moved to the U.S. at age 16. Her decision was driven by a desire for independence and personal development, in addition to her career ambitions. Immersing herself in a new country’s culture as a teen allowed her to expand her horizons, face new challenges, and learn valuable life skills that have shaped her academic journey and growth as a person. She feels her exposure to European, Asian, and American cultures has equipped her to bridge cultural gaps, foster inclusivity, and be a source of support among those she meets. 

During Natalie’s first semester at FIT, she learned that she’s not missing out on anything and that opportunities come and go: “It’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough because others seem to be accomplishing so much. It’s important to remember to take care of yourself and trust that the right opportunities will come your way.” She advises new students to be unafraid to ask for help. Whether dealing with culture shock, classroom challenges, or personal issues, reaching out to others can be invaluable. Chances are, they’ve faced similar struggles and can offer guidance. It’s easy to feel alone and overwhelmed in a big city like New York, but FIT has excellent resources to support anyone in need. Some of Natalie’s favorite support services are the Counseling Center, Health Services, Library, and Career and Internship Services.

Natalie loves the community involvement at FIT. The campus embraces and celebrates a variety of cultures, allowing students to learn about different customs and traditions. Her favorite thing about New York City is that she is never bored. There’s always an event, pop-up, or new place to visit. She loves being able to spontaneously explore, no need to plan ahead. Outside of school, Natalie spends time discovering new restaurants and taking long walks in city parks.

Major: Fashion Design BFA '27
Involvement on Campus: Student Lab Monitor

Nok Man chose to study abroad in New York City because he believed the city’s rich history in art, culture, and fashion would help him grow both personally and professionally as a designer. Before coming to FIT, he was concerned about finding a sense of community, especially due to cultural differences. However, he quickly discovered what would become his favorite thing about FIT: a campus filled with people from all backgrounds who are friendly, open, and eager to support one another. What he loves most about FIT is its diversity—each student brings a unique story, and while everyone is driven to succeed as a creator, the environment remains collaborative and supportive rather than competitive.

During his first semester at FIT, Nok Man learned that designing takes time and care, and that staying focused is essential to bringing creative ideas to life as intended. He encourages new international students to get involved as much as possible—talking to people, attending events, and taking on an on-campus job—all of it can help ease the transition.
He also recommends taking full advantage of FIT’s support services, especially the Library, the Museum at FIT, Public Safety, Health Services, the Computer Lab, and International Student Services.

Outside of school, Nok Man enjoys hanging out with friends and finding new cheap eateries and Japanese food. He loves to sew and draw and is passionate about discovering new music, attending concerts, and tracking every record he’s listened to!

Major: Technical Design BS ’26
Minor: Fashion History, Theory and Culture, 3D Design 
Involvement on Campus: Resident Assistant 

Phoebe began her Fashion Design studies for her associate’s degree in New York City and completed her final year in Italy at the FIT in Florence program at Polimoda. Her interest in studying abroad comes from a desire to leave the safety of home and experience a new school, city, and people.

Before coming to FIT, she was most concerned about everyday matters, such as setting up a bank account and phone plan in a new country and finding supplies for her new home. Her advice to new international students is to ask for help. This may seem obvious, but it can be difficult. There are many things to figure out when arriving in NYC, and getting recommendations is helpful, so there’s less decision fatigue. Students, staff, and Cultural Fellows are here to help!

Phoebe’s favorite part of FIT is being surrounded by unique artistic people who make the environment fun and entertaining. Her proudest moment was being awarded both the Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice awards for her AAS capstone project in Florence. In her free time, Phoebe enjoys picnicking, visiting yarn and fabric stores, knitting, scrapbooking, and cooking for friends. 

Major: International Trade and Marketing BS ’26
Minor: Creative Entrepreneurship
Involvement on Campus: The Style Shop, Merchandising Society, KWave Dance

Riva is an ambitious entrepreneur who, in search of independence and self-awareness, chose to study abroad in the U.S. She joined FIT after studying in Los Angeles. Living on her own in a different part of the world has taught Riva some necessary life lessons and enriched her academic education. 

Riva’s favorite thing about FIT is being surrounded by creative people! She loves seeing everyone’s sense of style, which encourages her to express her own individuality. During her first semester here, she learned how important it is to speak up in class. “Don’t be afraid to raise your hand and speak up in class and club meetings. You can make yourself known and also get those participation points!”

She advises new international students to join clubs and get involved on campus. It’s a great way to make many friends, and getting involved will look great on your resume. She also advocates using support services such as the Library, Career and Internship Services, Health Services, and International Student Services.

Riva’s proudest FIT moment was performing in the K-pop troupe KWave Dance for a crowd of over 100 people. The sold-out show, with cheers and standing ovations, made her feel like a star!
Outside of school, Riva enjoys dancing, cafe-hopping, and vintage shopping. 

Major: Fashion Business Management BS '26

Before joining FIT, Rosie attended SUNY Korea in Incheon, where she earned her Associate’s degree. She reasoned that studying in the U.S. would enhance her creative and professional skills and broaden her opportunities, so she decided to continue her education at FIT to pursue her Bachelor’s degree.

Initially, Rosie was nervous about how college life in the U.S. would compare to her experience in home country. During her first semester, she learned the importance of managing her time efficiently to balance classes, homework, and personal life. One of the most significant lessons she learned early on was the value of being proactive. Her advice to new international students? Don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out to others—a simple conversation can lead to helpful insights and new connections.

What Rosie loves most about FIT is being surrounded by people who share similar dreams, lifestyles, and hobbies. Her favorite neighborhood in New York City is SoHo, where there’s always something new happening, and there is a diverse food scene to explore.

Major: Advertising and Marketing Communications BS ’26
Involvement on Campus: Presidential Scholars 

Shannina is truly a global citizen, having grown up in five countries on three continents! Because of this, she knew she wanted to continue to immerse herself in different cultures and experiences. In addition to wanting educational opportunities related to her passions, she wished to be in a place where she could find professional opportunities and network with people. New York, for her, was the best place for this—the city is always bustling with new learning opportunities. 

Independence was one of the most important things Shannina experienced during her first semester. It’s important to be unafraid of being alone and to not depend on others too much. However, it’s also important to know when you need help and not be afraid to ask for it. 

Shannina advises international students to take advantage of the resources available in New York City and at FIT. “You’ve already sacrificed a great deal to be here to become closer to your dreams, so make sure to make the most out of your time at FIT. Don’t be afraid to talk to professors, use FIT’s student support services, or try something new!” Some of her favorite support services are the Writing and Speaking Studio, Career and Internship Services, Library, International Student Services, and Health Services.

The city surprises Shannina every day. When she’s not out exploring, she enjoys having picnics in the park with friends, trying new food, playing guitar, crocheting, and knitting. 

Major: Advertising and Marketing Communications BS'27
Minors: French Language, International Politics
Involvement on Campus: Blush Magazine, Residence Hall Association

Sydney chose to study abroad to expand her worldview and challenge herself, proving that she is capable of overcoming any obstacle. Before arriving at FIT, Sydney was most concerned about making friends in a completely new environment. During her first semester, she learned the importance of embracing change and staying open-minded. 

What she loves most about FIT are the students—the most passionate, hardworking, and driven people she has ever met. Everyone at FIT is a changemaker, and she feels fortunate to call them her friends and classmates.

In her free time, she enjoys exploring new parts of the city with an iced chai latte in hand or walking through Central Park on the weekends to visit The Met, where she likes to sketch the artworks. She also enjoys painting, drawing, cooking, working out, and thrifting.
Fun fact: she has a twin brother! 

Major: Fashion Design AAS '26
Involvement on Campus: Runway 27

Tam had known since ninth grade that she wanted to study abroad to learn about different cultures and to challenge herself to live independently. This experience has expanded her worldview, opened her mind to new perspectives, and helped her grow as a person.

Before starting at FIT, she was most concerned about whether she would fit in, but she was fortunate to meet friends who understood and supported her during the first year. During her first semester, she learned how easy it is to fall behind with a packed first-year schedule, realizing the importance of staying focused and working hard.

She loves FIT’s Midtown location, which makes it easy to get around the city, and as a Fashion Design student, she enjoys being just a seven-minute walk from the Garment District to source swatches for her projects. In New York City, she especially appreciates the freedom to explore the city without needing to drive.

She has utilized many FIT support services, including the Fitness Center, Health Services, Library, Public Safety, Computer Lab, and Tutor Center. 

Her advice to incoming international students is to learn to cook their favorite dishes from home—ask family members for recipes—because even though New York City offers cuisines from many cultures, they might not taste the same as they do at home. 
She loves Vietnamese dishes like Bun Bo Hue, Pho, Com Tam, and Goi Cuon, and enjoys hobbies such as crocheting, beading, and photography.  In her free time, she likes exploring the city or parks with her headphones on, capturing scenic photos. 

Major: Fashion Design BFA '27
Involvement on Campus: Student Tour Guide

When Tanisha first walked through the doors of FIT, she was ready for all-nighters, mountains of fabric, and last-minute critiques—but what really intimidated her? Talking to strangers. So she challenged herself to strike up conversations with as many people as she could. It turned out to be one of her best decisions. She found friends, mentors, and a community that has made this time unforgettable. 

Now a graduate of the Associate degree program and currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in Fashion Design, Tanisha has gained real industry experience through internships and hands-on creative exploration. For her, FIT has been a playground for creativity, where she’s done everything from sketching and jewelry-making to dancing in classrooms and reciting poetry between pattern-making classes.

Tanisha encourages new students to dive into every opportunity–attend every event you can, take way too many pictures, and try everything that sparks your curiosity. She believes that this chapter flies by faster than a 9 a.m. class when you’re running late!  Don’t be afraid to ask questions or take risks. Some of her best work came from asking, “What if I just… did this?”  

There’s more to her than sketchbooks and sewing machines: Tanisha is ambidextrous and can write with both hands. She can also fold a T-shirt in under two seconds! FIT has helped Tanisha discover her voice, her people, and a serious coffee habit. She’s excited for what’s ahead and hopes that every new student finds their own bold, beautiful path through FIT—just like she did.

Major: Fashion Design BFA ’26

Tanvi chose to study abroad because she wanted to gain a global perspective on the fashion industry and on life in general. She felt that New York City was the best place to do so. What she initially found most daunting about NYC is now her favorite part: the fast pace! She loves the way everyone in the city is so inspired and free-spirited. The bustling environment inspires her to work on herself and her career with passion and zest. 

Tanvi has a lot of great advice for new international students. First, time management, which she learned the importance of during her first semester. She feels it is one of the most essential parts of academic life, as it can take off the pressure and improve your work. Tanvi advises new students to keep an open mind—doing so will help a ton while you’re adjusting to life in the U.S. She also suggests that students utilize the great services FIT provides, such as the Academic Skills Tutoring Center and the Library, and participate in events organized by the college as much as possible. You can make amazing friends. (And get a lot of freebies!)

In her free time, Tanvi enjoys exploring the outdoors. Madison Square Park, the High Line, and Chelsea Piers are her favorite places near campus. Her hobbies include dancing, watching movies, yoga, and sketching. 

Major: Illustration MFA ’26

Yvette is an experienced international student, having completed her Illustration BFA in New York City before furthering her studies at FIT. She wished to study abroad in order to discover how art is viewed and appreciated by people around the world. She also feels the need to be in a diverse environment to develop her own point of view, and NYC is a perfect place for this. She loves that the diversity of the city means that there is a place here for everyone.

Yvette advises international students coming to NYC to master the subway system: It’s an interesting place to observe people and can save you time and money. At FIT, she encourages students to utilize support services like the Counseling Center, where you can get help managing the stress that goes along with being a college student in NYC. She also highly recommends visiting the The Museum at FIT, which offers exciting exhibits and is free!

Yvette is a huge foodie and can share tips on finding the best Asian food near campus. At home, she loves relaxing by baking reduced-sugar treats.