Syracuse University Class of 2010 alumnus Sara Armet joined LCF Fashion Design Spring Semester abroad in 2009. 15 years later she returned to London and shared her fond memories of her time at UAL.
How was studying abroad in London? What is your favourite thing about the city?
Living in London was the highlight of my college experience and the gift of a lifetime. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to study abroad to do it: go to a different country, be immersed in the culture, the places, the people. It teaches you how to be your own person. It helped build my confidence and establish my taste level.
My favourite thing about the city was the fashion and the shopping. It was 15 years ago, but I tie all my memories to my outfits. There were two items of clothing that purchased in London. The first was a hula-hoop dress from CyberDog in Camden Town, this futuristic clubwear store. That was an iconic look in my personal archive; it represents being young and experiencing the nightlife in London with all my friends. The second article of clothing was a sequin pair of hot pants from Topshop. I still have them and wore them recently! I would have never bought either of these pieces in the US, but they were quirky and fun.
London remains the destination that I look to for trends.
What is your favourite memory of your time studying abroad?
The highlight of the abroad experience was a trip to Paris that we participated in over spring break. It was fabulous. Seeing the contrast between Paris and London, you got a taste of the two great capitals of fashion. I remember going to see the Louis Vuitton Museum, a Sonia Rykiel exhibit, and the vintage markets. LCF did an amazing job curating this itinerary.
What did you enjoy most about your classes?
There was a teacher here, Carolyn, who taught a cultural studies course. Once or twice a week she would take us to places, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Tate.
The classes encouraged our creativity. Before I came to London, I always enjoyed writing, but at UAL the professors encouraged us all to keep journals. That journal is one of my most prised possessions today. It makes me cringe, but also makes me smile.
I spoke at our semester’s graduation where I read one of my journal entries called ‘High Tea with a Real English Gentleman’. It was about an afternoon that I was running around making deliveries during my internship and I got stuck in the rain! I was on Savile Row and the gentleman I was returning suiting to looked at me and said, “It looks like you are stuck with me now. Oh well, we’ll have to have tea”. I sat there in an oversized armchair, sipping my peppermint tea, and he asked me questions about myself. It was moments like this that left an impression.
Can you tell us about a project you were particularly excited about?
I had an internship with a public relations firm when I was in London. To be in the real world, interact with the locals, and learn new skill sets was a valuable experience.
Why did you choose UAL Study Abroad?
Syracuse University had a partnership with London College of Fashion. My Syracuse University professor, Karen Bakke, encouraged me to apply for the programme.
What is the most valuable thing you learnt from the experience?
There was an amazing library at the London College of Fashion Oxford Street campus. I discovered a book about the Antwerp Six. I learned about Martin Margiela, Dries Van Noten, and Ann Demeulemeester who remain some of my favourite designers. I developed a love for the avant-garde living in London.
How did your study abroad experience help with your later endeavours?
When I arrived in London there was a specialty store, Liberty of London, that I was fixated on. I had a love of stores at the age of twenty. Reflecting on my endeavours since, my entire career has been laser focused on stores.
Is there anything you want to share with future study abroad students/ future applicants?
Make the most of it! Travel often, take time exploring all the different neighbourhoods, seeing sights, trying new foods, visiting the stores. Also, keep a journal.
Would you recommend the experience at UAL?
Absolutely. If I could do it again, I would!
