Fullerton College’s fashion design and merchandising department is a historic mix of artistry, creation and innovation that prepares students for successful careers in the field. Overseen by Professor of Fashion, Renee Young, the department has shaped students into successful alumni who have embarked on their dream careers. This feature explores the story of four alumni that have found success in the fashion program and truly made communal impacts.
Taylor Castro’s journey through Fullerton College’s fashion design and merchandising program led to her career as a product developer for PSD Underwear, where she brings creative visions to life. From translating designs for factory production to working as the mind behind finished products that many wear, Castro proudly attributes her success to Fullerton College.
Before embarking on her career at PSD Underwear, the fashion program helped her secure an internship at Manhattan Beachwear that instilled a sense of confidence and technical skills as leader of Quality Control Fittings.
“If it wasn’t for Professor Young, the fashion department staff and my fellow fashion-hungry classmates, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” said Castro. “For that, I will be forever thankful.”
Mario Santiago (‘21) also found his robust career as a technical designer and stylist for Kellwood Apparel Company. A crucial role in the industry, Santiago is in charge of ensuring clothing patterns are ready to go into production. His process includes receiving and adjusting patterns from fashion designers, all while managing fittings that require technical expertise, attention to detail and perception. A collaborative effort, his designs have made their way into well-renowned companies, such as Target, Macy’s, Zara, Adidas and Costco.
“I believe everything I know is from Fullerton College. I won the fashion scholarship, and this fashion department has a comprehensive program that helps students succeed in their future careers. I cannot be more thankful for that.” said Santiago.
RJ Santiago is a senior footwear designer specializing in CMF (Color, Material and Finish) at Skechers. An avid researcher of trend analysis, Santiago’s work is both domestic and international. Knowledge of sales data, consumer behavior and global fashion movements are what drive him to build strong products that resonate with customers. He is also a creator that focuses on concept development and visualization through strategy and creation – a foundation that Fullerton College helped establish.
Santiago embraces his unique journey at Fullerton College. As an international student and the only male in many of his classes, he developed resilience, adaptability and an understanding of the fashion industry’s rewarding challenges.
“I had always dreamed of becoming a footwear designer, and the professors at Fullerton College gave me the opportunity and encouragement to pursue that path,” said Santiago. “They helped mold my perspective and pushed me to think creatively while also preparing me for the realities of working in a competitive field.”
For Samantha Flores fashion became an outlet to serve underrepresented populations. Today, she is a career pathways coordinator for the Office of Early College Initiatives at Long Beach City College. Flores found a mentor in Professor Young during her time in the fashion program. When the program helped her land a paid internship with Kiyonna Clothing in Anaheim, she continued to serve her community as an undergraduate fashion tutor at Fullerton College’s tutoring center.
“From this opportunity, I found my calling for working with disenfranchised and underrepresented students of color,” said Flores. “I am eternally grateful for Fullerton College’s student support services Transfer Achievement Program, Extended Opportunity Programs Services and above all, Professor Young for nudging me along.”
When Young mentored her students, she would invite industry professionals from diverse companies to examine students’ brand and collection projects. She also made sure to have fashion design professionals speak at orientations and field trips exploring fashion companies in an effort to garner excitement and motivation.
“Our classes were structured so that students use pathways to build from the first class to the next one by the semester,” said Young. “After students passed their classes, I introduced them to companies in the fashion industry that were looking for interns.”
Under the Division of Technology and Engineering, the fashion design and merchandising program instills confidence and career preparation for students through hands-on experience and theory-based education. The program also includes a wide selection of associate degrees and certificates designed to meet students’ unique educational goals and needs.
Learn more about the fashion design and merchandising program at the Fullerton College Career Technical Education website.