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(ITAA) Conference is the largest and most prestigious professional organization for scholars, educators and students in the fashion industry.

In 2024, students of the Master of Fashion Industry Studies (MFIS) program at Kent State and School of Fashion faculty showcased 18 presentations at the esteemed conference in Long Beach, California. These presentations included various models, including oral presentations, pecha kucha, design exhibition, and posters.

Jihyun Kim Vick, Ph.D., graduate program coordinator and professor at the School of Fashion, prepares future leaders in the global fashion industry through experiences like the ITAA Conference.

"Professional conferences, such as the ITAA's annual conference, are essential for graduate students to attend since they offer networking opportunities, exposure to current research and pedagogical endeavors, and skill development. By presenting their work at conferences, our MFIS students gain confidence, improve communication skills, and receive valuable feedback. These experiences are critical for academic and professional development, allowing our students to remain competitive and well-prepared for future chances in academia, industry, or other fields,” said Vick.

The MFIS program is ranked as the #5 Best Fashion Graduate Program in the U.S.*, and sets students up for success in the fast-paced world of fashion. This real-world experience is an integral part of the graduate program and invaluable experience for these emerging professionals in the industry.

Congratulations to Our M.F.I.S. Students and Their Faculty Mentors

Oral Presentations

“Deconstructing Gender: The Impact of Gendered Clothing Labels on Male Identifying Gen Z Consumers’ Clothing Choices”
Phoebe Carlton, Gargi Bhaduri, Ph.D.

Poster Presentations

“The Influence of Diversity in Fashion Ads on Underrepresented Consumers: Exploring Body and Ethnic Representation in the Fashion Industry”
Taylor Mends, Kim Hahn, Ph.D.

“Understanding the Success Factors Behind South Korean Emerging Designer Brands: A Comprehensive Case Study”
Dayoung (Emily) Park, Ja Young Hwang, Kim Hahn, Ph.D.

“Examining the Influence of Ideal Body Types in Social Media Influencer Advertising: Impacts on Adult Male Consumer Behavior”
Kylee Payne, Jihyun Kim-Vick, Ph.D.

“Garment Therapy: Understanding the Therapeutic Connections Between Garment Choice and Management Behavior and Mental Health”
Joy Mairura, Jihyun Kim-Vick, Ph.D.

“Sustainability Education: Exploring How Apparel Brands Teach Consumers”
Ana Beatriz Bianchi Fittipaldi, Gargi Bhaduri, Ph.D.

“Effects of Personal Values, Proximity of Clothing to Self, and Self-Esteem on Attitude Toward an Intention to Purchase Pre-Loved Luxury Goods: From Gen Z Perspectives”
Donya Darvish, Jihyun Kim-Vick, Ph.D.

“Male Consumer Perception of Apparel Quality in an Era of Sustainable Fashion Industry”
Ana Beatriz Bianchi Fittipaldi, Jihyun Kim-Vick, Ph.D.

Scholarships & Awards

Robert C. Hillestad Fellowship: Outstanding Student in the Study of Historic Textiles or Costume Award
Elaine Yuen, MFIS 2021

��è����Ƶ the Master of Fashion Industry Studies

The Master of Fashion Industry Studies is designed to set you up for success in the fast-paced world of fashion. It is the only one of its kind in the US. You’ll have the opportunity to explore how your creativity fits into the real world through a hands-on learning experience. Gain an advanced insight into the commercial side of fashion, find innovative ways to tackle industry challenges, and hone your design and merchandising skills.

It is important that your Master’s is geared towards your own career goals. That is why we enable you to choose an individualized learning path. Through nine credits in diverse areas of Fashion Design and Merchandising and three credits in coursework of your choice, you can follow your own interests and passions within the fashion industry. During the program, you’ll work on projects with local, regional, national and/or international fashion companies to gain real world, industry experience.

*Source: College Choice