Philine
Gehrmann

Can you tell us about your Masters project?
“My MA International Fashion Management course inspired me to look at the issue of ethics and sustainability in the fashion industry. I´ve always been interested in the fashion industry but I would say that I had an idealised picture of it and did not see the negatives aspects.

“During our first term, a British high-street fashion brand gave a guest lecture on ethics and sustainability in the company´s supply chain and the challenges they faced. Inspired by their insight, my thesis will now focus on the question of how cultural differences influence and complicate the negotiation and implementation of Western ethical standards within the supply chain of the fashion and textile industry.”

What do you enjoy most about your course at NTU?
“The course gives me a thorough overview of the fashion industry, and its characteristics and practices. I personally enjoy the combination of academic and practical work and the opportunity to gain industry insights through guest lectures, company visits and projects with well-known fashion brands.

“Besides that, I really appreciate how students at NTU are able to participate in the University´s decision-making processes and how our opinion is valued, heard and matters to staff. I have also enjoyed taking advantage of the wide range of opportunities the University has to offer through attending inaugurated lectures, workshops, research projects, societies, and sports activities.”

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“I chose NTU because of the uniqueness of the course and its industry links, along with the national recognition for the University´s teaching methods and high student satisfaction. Studying MA International Fashion Management at NTU has provided me with both the academic and practical knowledge necessary to pursue my career aspirations within the industry. This, combined with living and studying in a different cultural environment, has further enriched my experience and personal development.”

How do you find the course staff?
“The course staff are definitely well chosen – our lecturers have industry knowledge, experience and are well-connected in the fashion industry. Everyone is very friendly, sympathetic and highly motivated to support and give you the best experience while studying at NTU.”

What do you think about the facilities available to you?
“I am very pleased with NTU´s facilities. The library is a modern and comfortable place to study in, with a special study area for postgraduate students, plenty of workspaces, and computers equipped with the Adobe programs. Whenever I need a coffee or study break, I can choose from several cafes around campus. The library´s rooftop terrace is a great place for a sunny afternoon.”

As an international student, what do you like about studying and living in Nottingham?
“I really like Nottingham’s diverse and exciting nightlife, with all its great cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs to choose from. Some of them are hidden in little alleys, or down in the caves of Nottingham, and you will always find somewhere with great live music.”

Have you been on any class trips?  
“We went on a study trip to Paris and Antwerp, which was a great opportunity to explore the retail environment of two very different European cities. Besides going on a guided fashion tour in both cities, we also visited the Lidewij Edelkoort trend-forecasting studio, Première Vision in Paris, and the MoMu fashion museum in Antwerp. My personal highlights were the Yves Saint Laurent museum in Paris and the small, independent designer boutiques in Antwerp.”

Why would you recommend your course to someone thinking of studying it?
“I’d recommend the MA International Fashion Management course at NTU as it will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed in the fashion industry, while giving you the freedom to focus on your individual passion.”

How do you think the course, and having a postgraduate qualification, will help you to progress your career?
“I think that the course will help me on an academic as well as personal level. Studying a Masters course abroad is an adventure that has taught me a lot about myself and helped me to develop my personal strengths and skills. Academically, the course provides me with a network, industry knowledge, and research skills that help me deepen my knowledge in specific areas I am most passionate about.”

How did you find out about NTU before you applied?
“I found out about NTU´s MA International Fashion Management course on a webpage about Europe´s top fashion universities. An NTU student, whom I met while studying in Spain, then told me everything I needed to know about the University, including services offered and life in Nottingham. This made my decision to come to Nottingham easy.”