What it takes to get a Parsons Paris offer
One of the main QFIN pillars for our mission statement is equipping our members and event attendees with tangible skills and takeaways that they can then implement into the fashion industry. We strive to help students realize and pursue their dreams of further education or employment in the fashion industry. We aim to enlighten our members to the opportunities for study and work in fashion, and help to make their dreams a reality. Our membership is home to extremely talented, dedicated and hardworking individuals who are all destined for successful paths, no matter what career or industry they choose.
We are excited to announce that one of our most exquisite and dedicated members, Nicolette Kabitsis has been accepted to Parsons Paris for a Masters of History of Design and Curatorial Studies. I sat down with Nicky today to ask her a few questions about her experience and application to Parsons.
A: Why Parsons Paris? Specifically, why Paris over New York?
N: Anyone who appreciates art knows if you’re going to study art, you have to go at some point to the art capitals of the world, and while New York is a close second to this, its not Paris. If you’re going to study a Michelangelo, why not try to study as close to his works as possible? Luckily, the program I applied to, History of Design and Curatorial Studies, offers its program also in New York, meaning if i choose to spend one year of the two year program in Paris, and the second in New York, I can. Parsons Paris offers many programs different to the New York campus such as access to Paris Fashion Week, student VIP passes to all of Paris’ museums, and an opportunity to embed yourself in a new culture by participating in campus wine seminars and French classes. While I’m sure the New York campus offers other programs that are equally as exciting, New York will always be a hop, skip and a jump from Toronto, but Paris is a whole new world for someone like me, who has never even been. Overall, Parsons is the most prestigious art school, its known internationally and will skyrocket me towards reaching my goals by providing me with connections, experiences and overall a chance to study art first hand and not through a textbook
A: When did you start your application?
N: I began my application process a bit late in the term. I waited until December break after exams, and while a lot of my friends were out enjoying the break, I spent my days in the library researching every masters program I needed to and determining what I would need to do to get into my top choice, Paris Parsons. I composed each element of my application with a specific focus on showing how different I was as an applicant, and how my past experiences would benefit the campus as a whole. The application help many parts, including tangible submissions like my portfolio, a letter of interest, which was super similar to the Queen’s Personal Statement Essay, except in the Letter of Interest they specifically ask you to sell yourself. Within that letter I got to discuss my roles in the Vogue Charity Fashion Show, as well as why my first year GPA wasn’t as high as my later years. This letter is a chance to tell your side of things, and explain how you’ll still benefit the campus regardless of your adversities. About a month after I submit all materials for the application, I was asked to participate in a Skype interview with the head of the program I applied to. This Skype interview let me show my personality to the administrators, and show that my interest was real, and that I am eager to embed myself in the campus. The Skype interview was by far my favourite part of the application process as I got to hear the Administrator rave about the school, send me photos of hidden campus favourites and relate to my Letter of Interest by explaining how I could be involved in campus events similar to the Vogue Charity Fashion Show.
A: What sort of faculty support did you need?
N: Professor Jen Kennedy, who I’ve taken several courses under, wrote me one of the two reference letters I needed to supply. While I did not read the letter, I'm sure it was a large motivating factor behind my admission. Other than this letter, I got more of my support from my friends and family. Specifically, Greg Radisic encouraged me to apply, specifically saying, “So what if you don’t get in? The first step is to apply, and then take it from there.” Everyone knows once the applications are submitted, waiting for a response is the single most frustrating thing. During that time, I tried my best to bring up all my grades, working through the mindset of “If I don’t get in, ill resubmit my grades and ask for reconsideration.” In terms of support, a lot of it has to do with believing in yourself, and shooting your shot even if you don’t see it yet. Definitely reach out for help when you need it as well. I luckily have several friends who have graduated from New York Parsons and they supplied me with a lot of guidance towards the entire application process.
A: What sort of items did you include in your portfolio?
N: Honestly, a lot of my portfolio included works from my high school art classes, which i used to apply to Fine Art at Queen’s. To stand out, I attached some other subheadings within my portfolio like my graphic design and logo design for companies like One Shot and Carly’s Angels, as well as some of my own designs like a pair of vans I embroidered with roses, or some t-shirts i silkscreened. I also had a section for some of my photography, as well as my own modelling, which isn’t much. I also made sure my portfolio was aesthetic pleasing, and formatted well as that matters just as much as the material within it.
A: What advice would you give to other students from non fashion undergrads when applying to Parsons?
N: I would really urge students from non fashion degrees to just go for it. At the end of the day, you’re showing an interest in Parsons for a reason; you appreciate all things creative. So show them your creativity in your application. Show them your interest, and show them your motivation and your push for success. Prove to them, and yourself that you honestly can do anything you want to do if you focus on it. As well, look into what you can do to stay at the forefront of the admissions team’s mind. I constantly emailed the director of the Design and Curatorial Studies, asking for images of new campus finds, and constantly following up, ensuring he understood my interest in Parsons. Overall, I think applying to Parsons is the same as if you were to apply anywhere else. Do not let the elite aspect of any school determine your confidence in applying. So what if you don’t get in? You can always re-apply. There is something out there for everyone and if you know Parsons will help you get there, then prove to yourself and the Parsons admissions committee that they need you just as much as you need them.
Congratulations Nicky! We wish you the best of luck, whether it be at Parsons or any other endeavour. From the entire QFIN team, we are so proud of you.