New Graduates

Buying & Merchandising AAS
Brand Director, Haddad Brands

Abbey Samet is a creative brand strategist and retail executive with deep experience across fashion, forecasting, and cultural insight. She most recently served as VP, Trend + Lifestyle Strategy at Saks Fifth Avenue, where she helped shape the brand’s seasonal storytelling and customer engagement approach. Prior to that, Abbey led The Tobe Report as Editorial Director, translating global cultural shifts into actionable insights for brands and retailers. At Macy’s Inc., she was Fashion Director and Head of Global Forecasting, spearheading high-impact collaborations, trend direction, and experiential initiatives that reached millions. With a career rooted in connecting people, products, and culture, Abbey brings a uniquely holistic perspective to lifestyle brand building.

Production Management, '22
Senior Product Manager, Ralph Lauren; founder, Five B. Studio

Alana Yoffee is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology (Class of 2022), where she earned a degree in Production Management with minors in Economics, International Politics, Ethics and Sustainability, along with a certificate in Patternmaking. She currently works at Ralph Lauren in Product Management (Product Development/Production) for Women’s Polo and Lauren handbags, belts, and small leather goods. Her professional background includes roles at leading brands such as J.Crew, Madewell, Walmart, and Marchesa.

Beyond her corporate work, Alana is the founder of Five B. Studio, a sewing education company that brings hands-on sewing classes to NYC elementary and middle schools, as well as private lessons in her Bushwick, Brooklyn studio. Deeply passionate about education, she is dedicated to preserving the craft of sewing and inspiring creativity in children from all backgrounds.

Fashion Business Management
Product Development Assistant, The NES Group

My name is Alexis De Pasquale and I’m from Stony Brook, NY with a background in history and art history from Howard University. I furthered my education and enrolled in the Fashion Business Management program at FIT and now enjoy my work in product development in bridge and fine jewelry. I fast-tracked my time at FIT, but I had many opportunities that were formative for my career. The first being my internship that turned into a temporary role at Lafayette 148 where I first became involved in accessories. The second being my last semester when I entered the PETE Prize competition for innovative entrepreneurs in the fashion industry, where I finished as a semi-finalist. This competition provided me with resources and confidence in pursuing the creative side of the industry resulting in starting my own clothing solutions company. I’m grateful for the community and opportunities FIT continues to provide from students and alumni alike.

Fashion Business Management
Senior Customer Success Manager, EDITED

Hi, I'm Amy. I graduated from FIT in 2017 with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management and have spent my career at the intersection of fashion, e-commerce, and technology. My experience spans customer-facing sales, account management, merchandising, and planning roles, with a focus on driving growth in the online retail space. My resume includes roles at Haddad Brands, the licensee for Nike and Levi's children's clothing, Old Navy, Thirdlove, and currently EDITED, a retail intelligence company where I work with clients to understand assortment and pricing opportunities. I'm currently building a consulting company, wearnext, ai, that helps retailers leverage AI to streamline workflows and deliver a stronger, more personalized e-commerce experience. 

Menswear Design and Marketing AAS
Founder/Owner, Gotham Comedy Club; Producer, Dream Car Restorations

Chris Mazzilli is a comedy club impresario and former stand-up comedian, a TV producer and show host, an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a nationally-acclaimed car restoration expert on Chevrolet Corvettes and other muscle cars. In addition to his role as a co-owner of Gotham Comedy Club—a venue for legendary comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Gaffigan, Sebastian Maniscalco, and the late Robin Williams. 

Advertising and Marketing Communications
Operating Associate, Balyasny Asset Management

Christie Unger is an Operating Associate on the Growth Equity team at Balyasny Asset Management, a $22 billion global hedge fund. There, she is responsible for the fund’s strategy and investment operations. Christie is also a volunteer mentor with ATLAS Fellows, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping hardworking, under-resourced students pursue careers in finance through mentorship and support. She earned her B.S. in Advertising and Marketing Communications, with a minor in Economics, from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2020. This fall, Christie will begin pursuing her MBA at Columbia Business School. In her free time, she volunteers with the Central Park Conservancy and enjoys spending time near the ocean. 

Fashion Design MFA
Designer and Founder, CLARA SON

South Korea born menswear designer Clara Son is a founder and fashion designer. She studied BFA fashion design program at Parsons The New School for Design, and finished her MFA fashion design program at Fashion Institute of Technology afterwards, and was named a Fashion Trust US finalist in 2024. Clara focuses on a meticulously crafted menswear brand that draws inspiration from profound life experiences. Its collections embody a timeless essence that combines captivating stories with enduring style. With a strong focus on deep emotions, these collections vividly portray the transformative journey through life’s challenges, turning them into captivating narratives that go beyond fashion. Operating as a continuous aesthetic experience, the brand’s offerings surpass seasonal limitations, seamlessly blending unconventional elements with a balanced blend of classic influences. Embracing constant evolution, Clara Son stays true to its core principles: the artful articulation of potent narratives through unwavering visual authenticity.

Fashion Buying and Merchandising
TV & Personal Fashion Stylist

Darshan Gress is a premier fashion stylist, costume designer, and personal style expert with over 25 years of experience transforming wardrobes both on-screen and off. As a personal stylist, Darshan works with high-profile executives and professionals through her signature service, The Style Foundation. She believes clothes should tell your story -helping clients align their appearance with who they truly are, creating wardrobes that feel authentic and confidence-building. In entertainment, Darshan oversees the wardrobe departments, and styles the host and judges, for award-winning shows on Netflix, Hulu, NBC, and Bravo, styling influential personalities.  Her work extends to advertising campaigns and editorial projects.

Currently dividing her time between NYC and Los Angeles, Darshan is a member of both 892-Costume Design Guild in CA and 829-United Scenic Artists in NY. She is a graduate of The Fashion Institute of Technology.

International Trade & Marketing
Co-founder, COVRY EYEWEAR

Florence Shin co-founded COVRY, a forward-thinking eyewear brand that’s redefining the eyewear industry with an emphasis on comfort, fit, and inclusivity. After years of working in fashion, Florence launched Covry with a mission to create eyewear that empowers individuals to feel confident and seen.

Driven by a passion for community and authenticity, Florence leads Covry with a focus on innovation and inclusivity. Under her leadership, Covry has become a trusted name in eyewear, recognized for its commitment to quality and its genuine connection to its customers. Florence’s work continues to inspire others to embrace their individuality, and she is dedicated to building a brand that champions representation.

Fashion Merchandising Management
Human Resources Coordinator, Northwell Health

Hi! My name is Jaclyn Bossen, and I graduated from FIT with a Bachelor's in Fashion Merchandising Management. After graduating college, I worked for The Doneger Group as a Merchandising Strategist in menswear and accessories, and boy's apparel. I worked with retailers to provide strategic merchandising intel, analyzed competitive landscapes, presented market research forecasts, and proposed emerging product and trend opportunities.  

Presently, I work for Northwell Health in Human Resources, specializing in onboarding. I am also an ambassador and committee member at the Katz Women's Health Institute, where I participate in fundraising and raise awareness of women's health needs and research. FIT laid the groundwork for me in my professional career by developing strong business acumen, always thinking creatively and with an innovation-first mindset, and continually networking and building relationships, all of which have aided in my success thus far.  Congratulations to the class of 2025! I look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish! 

Advertising & Marketing Communications
VIP Ticketing Coordinator, 237 Global

Greetings, soon-to-be graduates! I majored in Advertising & Marketing Communications & graduated from FIT in 2022. I began my career in the fashion industry working as a Celebrity Stylist Assistant - working with clients such as Hugh Jackman, Paul Rudd, and James Corden. As time went on, I realized my true passion was to work in the music industry. As a bilateral cochlear implant user, the way I hear and connect to music is very unique and has always helped me through challenging times. During my senior year at FIT, I interned for the publicist of Dua Lipa, ZAYN, Rita Ora, and more. During this time, I gained a lot of experience in Publicity & Communications for high profile artists. This sparked my interest in learning about all that the industry has to offer. After graduation, I became a Personal Assistant before I arrived to my current role at 237 Global. I am currently a VIP Ticketing Coordinator - working with venues, artist teams and ticketing partners to oversee VIP Ticketing operations & counts for all clients. Some of our current clients include Lainey Wilson, Green Day, Shawn Mendes, Lionel Richie, Keshi and more. Stay true to yourself and be enthusiastic about what drives you. I look forward to connecting with you all!

Fashion Business Management
Senior Buyer - Shoes, CHANEL

Kiana Brooks is a luxury fashion buyer based in New York City, currently working at the Chanel corporate headquarters in NYC as the Senior Shoe Buyer for North America. In 2022, Kiana was featured in Essence Magazine as one of six contemporaries disrupting the fashion industry, highlighting her efforts to increase representation for minority groups on the business side of fashion in particular. With a Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Business Management from the Fashion Institute of Technology, her career spans key roles at Gucci, Christian Dior Couture, and CHANEL.

Advertising & Marketing Communications
Director of Brand Partnerships, goop

Lauren Ceravolo is a passionate advertising and marketing leader specializing in the international luxury markets. Lauren brings over 15 years of experience working for the world’s largest brands on both the client and publishing sides of the business. She oversees luxury brand partnerships at the lifestyle brand, goop. Prior to goop, Lauren was the International Fashion Director at Hearst Magazines for ELLE and Harper’s BAZAAR, and Partnerships Director at VICE Media Group.

Lauren began her career on the brand side, leading marketing and PR efforts for PRADA, Valentino and Tumi. She transitioned into publishing/sales, bringing an invaluable perspective in understanding client needs and delivering standout results. Lauren is a graduate of FIT with a concentration in Advertising and Marketing Communications. She serves as the head of her department’s internship program at goop and is a board member on The Children’s Rare Disorders Fund.

International Trade & Marketing
Founder and CEO, Laurenti New York

Lauren Petrovic is the founder of Laurenti New York, a bespoke fine jewelry brand dedicated to craftsmanship, sustainability, and timeless design. A proud alumna of the Fashion Institute of Technology, Lauren combines a deep respect for tradition with an entrepreneurial drive to innovate and reimagine the future of luxury. As the host of the Responsible Luxury podcast, she shines a light on leaders who are shaping a more transparent, ethical, and purpose-driven industry.

Beyond Laurenti New York, Lauren is building ventures that bridge fine jewelry and technology, creating new ways to bring transparency, access, and opportunity to the diamond and jewelry space. She believes the next generation of creators and entrepreneurs have the power to reimagine industries – and is committed to building a luxury world where authenticity, impact, and lasting value lead the way.

Graphic Design
Senior Art Director, Samsung - CHEIL

To sum it all up, over the years I’ve realized that I’m not the typical designer. And no, I’m not about to tell you something cringe worthy like, “I think outside the box” or how “exceptionally uncommon I am”. On any given day I design, illustrate, manage projects, manage other talent, speak with clients, art direct, mentor other designers or students, constructing marketing strategy, organizing files and sometimes I’m the IT department fixing metaphorical technical fires. With that being said, my passion goes beyond design and I invest a lot of work and time into any project I am working on. A healthy workplace is a collective of collaborative synergy and engagement.

Visual Presentation and Exhibition Design; Home Products Development
Founder, Lyle Gallery

Lin Tyrpien is a New York–based creative director and curator, and the founder of Lyle Gallery—a multidisciplinary exhibition space spotlighting emerging voices in art and design. Since launching Lyle, her curatorial work has been featured in Marie Claire, Sight Unseen, and Hyperallergic. Her background spans creative direction, exhibition design, and brand storytelling, with past roles at Ralph Lauren, Christie’s, IDEO, and several early-stage startups. Through Lyle and her broader practice, she is committed to centering women, nonbinary, and queer artists across creative disciplines—using thoughtful curation and unexpected formats to challenge traditional structures of visibility and value.

Cosmetics & Fragrance Marketing
Editorial Assistant, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit

I began my journey with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit as a college sophomore, joining the team as an intern before transitioning into a full-time role after graduation. Over the past four years, I’ve grown within the brand, gaining hands-on experience across both production and editorial. Outside of my work at SI, I’ve cultivated a passion for wardrobe styling, assisting my colleague Margot- with whom I also recently co-founded swimwear brand, Vesey.

Advertising & Marketing Communications
Operations Manager, The Seven

Mackenzie Harding is a 2024 graduate of the Jay & Patty Baker School of Business at FIT, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Advertising & Marketing Communications with a minor in Film & Media. She currently works as the Operations Manager for The Seven, a fine jewelry retailer located in Manhattan, Sag Harbor, and Palm Beach.

While at FIT, Mackenzie found a passion for leadership. She served as President of the Black Student Union, Vice President of the Residence Hall Association, and Secretary of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Student Government Association. Some of her best memories were spending time on the 7th floor of Dubinsky with the Department of Student Life as an Orientation Leader and hosting off-campus events as a Bumble Brand Ambassador. 

Fashion Design
Designer

As designer and creative director at Morilee, Gardner has played an instrumental role in growing the brand into a global leader in bridal, prom, quinceañera, and special-occasion fashion, helping make Morilee—and Gardner herself—an essential part of life’s most celebrated moments. Gardner ended her 40-year tenure at Morilee in the second quarter of 2024.

She was an early advocate of designing for women of all body types. Gardner’s superior designs, crafted from unique fabrics, make women all over the world feel unique and beautiful. Using a hands-on, disciplined approach, Gardner specializes in working with lace, embroidery, and intricate beading, combining modern trends with timeless detail to create pieces that are both luxurious and accessible to a diverse range of consumers.

Business Merchandise Management AAS
Project Development Manager, Burton Snowboards

I began my career with a love of action sports and fashion merchandising. I went on shortly after graduating FIT to work for the leading global snowboard brand, Burton snowboards. This journey provided me the opportunity to enhance my experience in product merchandising, development, sales management, and overseas vender management.  Over the course of 20+ years I built high-performing teams, optimized processes, and drove revenue growth across diverse market segments.

Starting in merchandising, I quickly developed a keen eye for consumer trends, assortment planning, and vendor relations.  This foundation naturally transitioned into product development, where I led cross-functional teams to bring innovative, customer-centric products to market—on time and within budget. In sales management, I have successfully over saw regional and top national accounts, implemented strategic sales initiatives, and cultivated strong client relationships that have translated into consistent long term growth partnerships.

Today, my focus is continuing merchandising support for Burton.  I am also a working mother of two wonderful teenage daughters and am
enjoying my time reconnecting my love of fashion, merchandising and the arts.  

Advertising and Marketing Communications
Editor, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit; Founder of Vesey Swim; Stylist

I began working at Sports Illustrated Swimsuit as an intern while in school at FIT and then became full time when I graduated in 2020. I am now the fashion editor there and work across many different departments. Three years ago I launched my styling business where I work with celeb and non-celeb clients on everything from red carpets to daily wardrobe. I recently launched Vesey with my good friend and colleague, Liz Wentworth, a fellow FIT alum. Vesey is a resort wear brand and we are so excited/ in the trenches of building and learning this brand. 

Fashion Merchandising Management
VP of Content at ShopTalk

Marielle Bobo is an award-winning creative executive and publishing veteran with 25 years of experience shaping iconic brands in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle media. As Vice President of Content at Shoptalk, the global conference driving the future of retail, she curates programming for over 10,000 executives across fashion, beauty, tech, and e-commerce innovation.

Previously, she served as Editor-in-Chief and SVP of Programming at EBONY, leading the brand’s digital transformation and revitalizing marquee events like EBONY Power 100. She was also the Founding Editorial Director at Ayesha Curry’s Sweet July and Executive Fashion Director at Essence, where she influenced global fashion and championed Black creatives.

Marielle’s expertise extends to TV and film, with appearances in the award-winning docuseries Supreme Models (Netflix) and Time of Essence (OWN). A passionate advocate for inclusive storytelling, she contributed to the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s upcoming 2025 Costume Institute exhibit, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style — the first of its kind to spotlight Black identity and fashion.

She continues to drive impact through her advisory roles with the Fashion Institute of Technology and RAISEfashion. A passionate advocate for diverse storytelling within underrepresented communities, she drives initiatives that champion Black creatives, including Michelle Obama's Reach Higher Fashion Education Workshop, and she serves on the Alumni Advisory Council at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Advertising & Marketing Communications
Founder, MB Consulting

Marybeth Schmitt is the founder of MB Consulting, a brand communications and partnerships practice based in New York City. A seasoned marketing and storytelling strategist, Schmitt has held senior leadership roles at H&M, Tommy Hilfiger, kate spade, Gucci, and KCD, leading global brand and campaign initiatives. She began her editorial career as a fashion editor at Elle and market editor at Allure, working alongside icons like Polly Mellen.

An FIT alumna, Schmitt launched her career at KCD, where she was mentored by Kezia Keeble and Paul Cavaco. Most recently, she served as Fractional Head of Brand Marketing & Special Projects at Dress for Success Worldwide, where she rebranded the organization’s largest campaign, launched a podcast, and contributed to a global brand refresh focused on advancing women’s economic empowerment.

Schmitt is a founding member of the FIT Alumni Advisory Board, a consultant with The Board, and a member of the WIE Suite, a private network of women leaders. She remains committed to purpose-driven work and mentoring the next generation of creative professionals.

Fashion Design
CEO, New York Embroidery Studio Inc.

I'm the CEO and founder of New York Embroidery Studio, where I’ve built a business rooted in craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep love for design. As a proud Fashion Institute of Technology alum, my education gave me the technical foundation and creative confidence to launch a career that’s taken me from hands-on workrooms to collaborations with some of the biggest names in fashion and entertainment. At NYES, I lead a team of incredibly skilled artisans, pushing the boundaries of embellishment, textile development, and American manufacturing. I’m passionate about keeping production local, mentoring young talent, and continuously evolving what’s possible in this industry.

International Trade & Marketing
Digital Media & Marketing Manager

Class of 2017. Currently working at Fendi as the Digital Marketing and Media Manager. Previously at Cartier & Ralph Lauren. I'm a luxury marketing specialist with experience across Fashion, Leather Goods, Watches, Fine Jewelry. Originally from New Delhi, India.

Fashion Merchandising Management
Manager of Accesories, Century 21; Founder and Designer of L.A.E.

After a successful career in Financial Services, Nicole took a leap of faith to follow her passion for fashion. She returned to school to study Fashion Merchandising at the Fashion Institute of Technology, laying the foundation for her new path. Since then, she has held Buying roles at some of the world’s most prestigious retailers and brands, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tory Burch. She now serves as the Head of Accessory Buying at Century 21. 

In addition to her corporate career, Nicole launched her own jewelry brand, L.A.E., in 2021, where she is both the Founder and Head Designer. L.A.E. is continuously building a community of women who admire the vintage jewelry inspired collection. 

Fashion Business Management
Founder of The Laundry Lab

Nicole grew up in New York and always knew she wanted to attend FIT. She got her start in retail at Cole Haan, and during her final semester, she interned at Giorgio Armani—an opportunity that led to a five-year career in Sales and Operations. She later joined a smaller apparel brand as a Sales Executive, before moving on to Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, where she spent several years in wholesale, selling to major retailers.

Drawing from her experience in sales, design & production, Nicole launched a brand of her own in the Home category—The Laundry Lab. Her first product, The Laundry Lab Bottle, is designed to make laundry day effortless for city dwellers and college students alike.

Fashion Design
Founder and Designer

I’m Rujuta Sheth, designer and the founder of my namesake brand, Rujuta Sheth. I’m passionate about creating clothing that feels as good as it looks — effortless, bold, and thoughtfully made. After studying at FIT, I set out to build a brand that celebrates individuality, craftsmanship, and the beauty of everyday life. Inspired by global textiles, rich color, and a love for comfort, my work focuses on timeless pieces designed to move with you and evolve with your life.

Fashion Design
Founder and Creative Director, Cealle Creative

My name is Tanya Scott, a native New Yorker and self-taught artist who has always loved being creative.

Cealle Creative Prints and Design is a direct to customer online boutique that offers silk scarf designs created from original artwork. Each scarf is packaged in a custom green box and is paired with a short story that brings our rich designs to life. 

I was inspired to develop Cealle one summer visiting my grandmother. One afternoon I decided to take a few still life images near my grandmothers home as well as a few of my grandmother. Around the same time I also started documenting stories my grandmother shared about growing up in Alabama. Once back in NY, I found myself going through pictures and replaying the stories my grandmother shared. It was in that moment in time, something magical happened. An idea formalized clearly, and Cealle was born!