Full name: Nicole Birch
Program: Fashion Business Management
Grad Year: 2009
Current Position: Store Owner – Studio Eleven in Orillia
What is your favourite Seneca memory?
One of my favourite memories from Seneca would be running the Seneca boutique with my classmates. I found it so fun, very hands-on, this class gave each individual different responsibility. I also always hoped to own my own store so I enjoyed this very much!
If you could give one piece of advice to a student completing the same program as you, what would it be?
To be patient when it comes to finding a position after you’ve finished the program. The retail industry can be tough, but amazing! You will always have to start off small in an entry-level position, but do everything you can to gain any experience.
How has your career evolved?
After I graduated from Seneca, I started working in the buying industry first as an assistant then as a buyer. I have worked for a few different major retailers like Zellers, Joe Fresh and Jones of New York.
After a company closure, I re-evaluated what I wanted to do next which was owning a clothing store. One thing that really attracted me to the Fashion Business Management program is the entrepreneurial aspect along with fashion. Since April 2017 I have been a store owner!
How did your Seneca program help you get to where you are now/your current career?
This program has helped me immensely! I knew from day one I was going to be in the retail industry if it was either in a head office or on my own. This program has shown & helped with everything from buying, visual merchandising, entrepreneurship to business plans.
