Summer School 2024 is just around the corner!

The Fashion Minority Report (FMR) summer school programme stands as a transformative experience for aspiring fashion creatives. For many young talents, it’s a stepping stone and a journey of self-discovery and professional growth. We talked to one of our previous summer school students, Saathvika Pitchuka, who navigated the FMR summer school, explored her motivations, the skills she gained, and how this unique programme influenced her path towards a future in fashion. So if you’ve heard of summer school but haven’t fully decided whether to apply yet, below are all the reasons you should, straight from Saathvika themself!

What motivated you to enrol in the Fashion Minority Report summer school programme?

I wanted to experience Fashion Design before university as I didn’t know if it was the right choice for me. I’d always wanted to study fashion design my whole life but was incredibly discouraged by my father, who said it was too competitive and wanted me to study Engineering instead. I was really curious to see what would be taught in the FMR summer school programme and what I would learn both about design and myself.

Was there anything you learnt that stuck with you?

I learnt to be spontaneous and not overthink when designing, which was a struggle for me during Art and Design in school. I also discovered how creative Fashion Marketing could be, as I initially thought it would be more business-oriented and less creative. More importantly, I learnt a lot about myself, particularly the importance of confidence and having a distinct sense of self to fuel my individuality.

What was your favourite task to complete during the programme?

I had never created a mood-board, particularly in such a short time before, as I had never studied any fashion design before. This was really enjoyable and allowed me to think of ideas on the spot. Presenting ideas allowed me to learn to be confident, and if not, to fake it till you make it!

How did the experience and learnings from the summer school influence your application to Marangoni?

Experiencing Fashion Marketing influenced my application to Istituto Marangoni as I chose to do a Fashion Design and Marketing BA degree. I wouldn’t have chosen the Marketing pathway if I hadn’t attended the FMR summer school programme, so I’m really happy and grateful for the programme.

What would you say to those thinking about applying?

I enjoyed the FMR summer school programme immensely and had the most wonderful time, making friends with lovely people, one of whom I am still close with after these two years! The summer school definitely prepared me mentally to know what I should expect in terms of skills and mindset. 

Opening my mind up to new career pathways by introducing me to Fashion Marketing was an important impact for me as I made a huge choice for my studies I wouldn’t have otherwise. I am forever grateful for the experience, so if you’re thinking of applying, it can really help make connections, develop your skills, and you can learn new ones.

The Fashion Minority Report summer school programme is more than an educational initiative; it’s a catalyst for personal and professional transformation. Through engaging projects, unexpected discoveries in your own creativity, and the development of confidence, Saathvika Pitchuka’s story exemplifies the profound impact such a programme can have.

If you are interested in taking part, you can find more information about our programme here, or follow us on Instagram to keep up to date.