UA Students Experience Fashion, Gain Skills

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Several University of Alabama students recently had an opportunity to put their skills to the test while experiencing the world of high-end fashion during Fashion Week New Orleans.

For four action-packed days, nine members of UA’s Meeting Professionals International student group helped with venue preparation and guest check-in, managed all of the behind-the-curtain work, including the models and designers during outfit changes, and assisted in the VIP areas. The students did everything from assemble gift bags to work with the media. They also had an opportunity to mingle with models, photographers, designers and others during Fashion Week NOLA’s Kick Off Party and exclusive After Party.

The students not only gained valuable experience during the event, they were able to network with professionals in both the fashion and events planning fields.

“(The Kick Off party) alone is an extremely exciting event, and we feel especially privileged to be invited,” said UA advertising major Amy Shepard, Fashion Week NOLA student coordinator for the UA group.

Students who attended Fashion Week NOLA were Shepard, of Orlando; public relations major Lindsey Moltz, of Barrington, Ill.; apparel and textiles major Stephanie Nunez, of Winter Haven, Fla.; hospitality management major Paige Shell, of Marietta, Ga.; restaurant and hospitality management major Rachel Chandler, of Daphne; human environmental sciences major Shaquita Chapman, of Tuscaloosa; restaurant, hotel and meetings management major Victoria Gilbert, of Clay; public relations major Maghen Grice, of Dothan; and restaurant and hospitality management major Heather Lightsey, of Boaz.

UAMPI is a chapter of Meeting Professionals International at The University of Alabama. It provides students with opportunities to network, acquire high profile event industry experience, and stay connected with the trends within the event industry.