ASU leads student to Paris, and a degree in fashion business management
Karen Joy Chavez. Photo by Camille Misty.
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
Karen Joy Chavez transferred to ASU because they wanted a place where they could pursue all of their passions. What they found was a new career path in a field they already loved.
“As a visual artist at heart, I always loved expressions of creativity,” said Chavez, who graduates this fall from ASU FIDM with a fashion business management degree. “I see fashion as a way for people to express parts of themselves, their values and what they are passionate about. Having grown up in the Philippines for some time, which has a culture that partakes in handmade fashion, accessories and art, made me curious about other processes and impact of such work. Seeing that, I wanted to be hands-on in the creation of wearable pieces.”
Chavez, who uses they/them pronouns, moved to Los Angeles and earned their associate degree in fashion design from FIDM, before ASU announced the expansion of its fashion program to Los Angeles, becoming ASU FIDM. After completing their associate degree online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Chavez transferred to ASU as an Arizona-based student.
“I chose ASU because I wanted the experience of a traditional four-year college that offered several minors and one that had students of all majors and backgrounds,” they said. “I love that ASU encourages people of any major to join interest-related clubs and events to explore as undergraduates.”
As a student at ASU, Chavez was able to continue exploring the fashion industry while also minoring in French, with a focus on language and literature, from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. They even got to study abroad in Paris, thanks in part to receiving the Summer Go Global Grant award.
“The program experience was very hands-on and engaging.” they said. “I was able to have a firsthand look at Paris' fashion scene through access to museum exhibits, histories behind fashion and architecture movements, and more exclusive settings such as Louis Vuitton and Hermes' production areas. Interacting in French outside the classroom with French locals was a bit daunting, but a huge learning experience for me for sure.”
Chavez said something they learned as an ASU FIDM student that changed their perspective was that there are plenty of opportunities in the fashion industry, especially in sustainability, tech, AI and supply chain.
“Learning the fashion industry’s supply chain cycle and business practices mainly inspired my decision to pursue fashion business management, as I was curious and passionate about learning the technical side of fashion,” they said. “Because of this, I got to explore other avenues in the industry, and what I potentially see myself doing in the future.”
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: It wasn’t just one, but three. I was one among the many students Miss Jennifer Boonlorn taught in her first semester as an adjunct professor at ASU, which I remember fondly. She, along with Professor Danielle Testa, taught us the skills and etiquette needed for the industry long beyond the classroom. Last but not least, Professor Galina Mihaleva taught me to never lose sight of creativity no matter where you are, as you can use it in times you may least expect.
Q: What has been one of your favorite projects or courses while a student at ASU FIDM and why?
A: My favorite courses were Merchandising Essentials with Professor Boonlorn with her teaching style, as she introduced the skills we needed to know in the industry in a less overwhelming manner. With her class, I also got to explore opportunities and where I would want to specialize in fashion. I also loved all the French courses I have taken with Professor Minardi for my French minor. They were all very informative and engaging to be a part of.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
A: This sounds cliché, but to make the most out of your college experience, since there are so many things to explore in college, and I believe in the saying about trying something at least once. Whether that be a course you really wanted to take, a new activity or organization you wanted to join, or just putting yourself out there in spaces that spark your interest — since what you learn now might be something that reappears later again in the future.
Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?
A: My favorite spot on campus is the Alumni Lawn between Old Main and Durham Hall. It is a very nice and peaceful spot, especially during the colder months.
Q: What are your plans after graduation and what do you hope to do in your career?
A: To try more new activities I wanted to do, and being open to career opportunities in fashion businesses. My ultimate goal is to become a buyer or be in apparel production development.
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: To reduce global textile waste by reusing fibers from overstock and clothing waste.
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