A Student's Guide to the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM)

I quite frequently get asked questions about my school, the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, also known as FIDM. Since this is a fashion school, and not like a traditional college, there are a whole lot more questions when entering, and less access to answers. I've been attending the school for over a year and a half now, and here are my honest answers to some of the frequently asked questions.

Is FIDM respected in the industry?
I guess I won't know for sure until I actually get into the industry, but honestly I don't see why it wouldn't be. The school might not have the alumni of FIT or Central St. Martins but I think FIDM holds it's own. Monique Lhuillier is a fairly recent graduate, and now she's one of the top designers in bridal and red carpet fashions. Randolph Duke has been huge in the industry for years, not to mention a slew of Project Runway contestants! From my research, I think the school has the most impressive alumni of an west coast fashion school.

Is FIDM hard to get into?
I'll just be flat out honest here and say, no! Basically if you make it obvious that this is the career path that you want the most and your check doesn't bounce, you're in. But that's not to say this isn't a quality school. They'll work you hard, you'll be loaded down with projects and homework, but it's not impossible to pass with great grades.

What should I expect during the admissions process?
Lots of calls from your admissions advisor, a project that relates to your major (which is pretty fun to create), an essay and a two hour interview before your ultimate "acceptance".