During my four years of university life in the Institute of Textiles and Clothing (ITC), I experienced and learned a lot, especially in my third and fourth years. In Year 3, I gained an eye-opening experience through an exchange programme to London. Other than benefiting academically and personally, I explored the culture and beauty of different countries. After my London journey, I got the chance, after several rounds of interviews, to participate in the summer internship programme with Shiseido Hong Kong, which is a well-known, Tokyo-based multi-national cosmetic corporation. To my delight, my ability was recognised. I was assigned to the marketing group, where all of my colleagues were very friendly and willing to coach me. To give me the greatest possible exposure in the company and the industry, Shiseido is very resourceful and committed to training student interns through a series of training sessions, conferences and personal development programmes. In my final year, I was honoured to represent PolyU in the Future Retail Challenge of the World Retail Congress, held in Amsterdam. This opportunity gave me a bigger picture of the industry around the world and greatly boosted my self-confidence. My fourth year at the ITC was unforgettable, shining a light on my future career path.

LAM Ka Yee Charlie

I had a fruitful two years of study, admitted via the senior year intake, under the BA(Hons) Scheme in Fashion and Textiles (Fashion Technology). I learned about interesting topics such as weaving, knitting, dyeing and finishing. I enjoyed the practical classes most. I had the chance to produce fabric myself and build up a deeper understanding of fabric manufacturing principles. I was also lucky enough to serve as an intern at Luk’s Button Industrial Limited as an assistant in the Quality Assurance Department. I knew more about the industry after two months' stationing in the factory. My summer school experience at the Kyoto Institute of Technology was unforgettable. It broadened my horizons by allowing me to interact with international students and investigate traditional Japanese weaving craftsmanship. In my leisure time, I took part in some activities offered by PolyU with my friends, including mountaineering and a hand knitting workshop. Through these experiences, I explored new things and added value to my personal development. To conclude, I am glad to have been an ITC student. I grew, learned and met life-long friends here. I would highly recommend joining this programme if you are passionate about fashion and textiles; you will gain a lot of valuable experience here.

CHUNG Wing Yi Grace

Studying at the ITC was an amazing and unforgettable experience. During my four years of study, I learned about fashion sketching, garment construction, fashion marketing, fashion technology, etc. Apart from academic opportunities, the ITC provides various forms of off-campus learning exposure. One of my most memorable experiences was an academic exchange programme in New York City. I was exposed to the international fashion world by living in this vibrant foreign city for a semester and making friends from different countries. I even had the chance to become a dresser in New York Fashion Week. Having the chance to study overseas was truly a wonderful experience. It expanded my understanding of different cultures and reminded me to always keep an open mind.

ITC graduates are equipped with holistic technical skills and industry knowledge. I had two internship opportunities in my final year. They were quite challenging and demanding. I developed all-round skills that are required from the fashion industry, such as problem solving skills, inter-personal communication skills and a creative mind. My career path started with the skillsets and knowledge that I gained from the ITC and my internship experience.

I have had a strong interest in fashion design since I was a child. I was reluctant to apply to the ITC programme because of my immature drawing skills. However, I was eventually admitted to the programme, as the ITC welcomes everyone who is passionate about fashion. They value your intention and attitude towards fashion more than your technical skills at this early admission stage. As already mentioned, you will learn many more fundamental skills before you pick your specialism and enter the senior year. Last but not least, if you really have a strong interest in fashion, please do not hesitate to choose the ITC at PolyU.

FAN Kam Wai Isaac

Fashion involves not only fashion design, but also retail, marketing and technology, which demands comprehensive knowledge of textiles, technology, fashion and supply chains. I am studying fashion retail. The professors not only teach management skills and theories, but also emphasise critical thinking and independent problem-solving skills. Besides, the ITC supports and encourages me to extend my vision globally and enhance my fashion knowledge through opportunities for internships, overseas exchange, international competitions and expert sharing talks. These activities offer a practical and effective platform for me to build my skills. In summer 2019, I joined Lane Crawford China in Shanghai as student intern in the womenswear department. I gained perspective and work experience in a luxury brand. This was valuable to my career path. I enjoy my rich and colourful campus life. If you are ready to enter the fashion world, welcome to our family.

LI Lai Yee Ann