From Passion to Profession: Embracing Fashion and the Great Outdoors at BTECH
Meet Sarah Anderson, a driven student currently pursuing her dreams in the Fashion Merchandising and Development program at Bridgerland Technical College (BTECH). Originally from the twin cities of Minnesota, Sarah spent six adventurous years in Duluth before finding her way to Logan. With a love for pineapple pizza and an unwavering belief in “the more pineapple, the better,” Sarah’s journey to BTECH was guided by financial considerations and the valuable recommendation of her Utah State University (USU) advisor.
Passions Unleashed:
When she’s not immersed in her studies, Sarah finds solace in the great outdoors. From rock climbing and hiking to canoeing and camping, she embraces any opportunity to connect with nature. Recently, sewing has become one of her favorite hobbies, both inside and outside of school. The Fashion Merchandising and Development program at BTECH seamlessly integrates with her passions, as Sarah aspires to create outdoor gear designed specifically for women. Her goal is to empower more women to experience the joys of the outdoors comfortably and safely.
Unforgettable Experiences:
A unique aspect of Sarah’s journey is her summer spent working in Yellowstone National Park. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, she embarked on unforgettable adventures, hiking, camping, and encountering fascinating wildlife like bison, bears, and moose. Inspired by her time in nature, Sarah’s dream job is to work for Patagonia as a designer for soft goods, including clothing and backpacks. She admires Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability and resonates with its values.
A Bright Future:
After her time at BTECH, Sarah has her sights set on Utah State University, where she plans to complete a bachelor’s program in outdoor product design and development. This advanced degree will equip her with the skills and knowledge necessary to bring her creative visions to life.
Advice for Fellow Students:
Sarah’s advice for future students is to embrace the uniqueness of their educational journey. Not all paths follow a traditional trajectory, and that’s perfectly fine. To those considering the Fashion Merchandising and Development program at BTECH, she encourages reaching out to the program’s dedicated instructors, Hailey and Caroline. They are passionate about their students’ success and eager to support them in their pursuits. Sarah emphasizes that the program offers a remarkable experience and a nurturing environment for growth.
Highlights and Aspirations:
Throughout her time at BTECH, Sarah has cherished the hands-on opportunities afforded by the Fashion Merchandising and Development program. From designing stage sets for the Fall fashion show to creating eight garments for the upcoming Spring fashion show, she has honed her skills and learned invaluable lessons. Her set for the Spring fashion show, themed “April Showers Bring May Flowers,” will feature four rainwater-inspired looks and four floral-themed ensembles. These creations will significantly contribute to her portfolio, essential for admission into upper-division courses at Utah State University.
Embracing Change and Empowering Women:
Sarah’s journey has taken her on an unexpected path, but one that perfectly aligns with her love for the outdoors and creative spirit. She aims to bridge the gap in outdoor gear designed for women, catering to diverse body types and ensuring comfort and safety in every adventure. BTECH has been an exceptional choice for Sarah, offering flexibility, supportive instructors, and a curriculum that aligns with her outdoor-oriented focus.
Closing Thoughts:
Sarah’s enthusiasm for her chosen field and dedication to empowering women in the outdoors shines through her story. With BTECH as her launching pad, she is well on her way to making a significant impact in the world of fashion and outdoor gear design. Her questions were answered even before her first day of class, and her journey