Why did you decide to enroll in Vogue Winter Break?

I decided to enroll in Vogue Winter Break to better understand myself and my passions. I was ultimately seeking to discover whether I truly want to pursue a career in fashion.

At the beginning of the program, I found myself torn: should I study biochemistry, a field I’ve prepared myself for throughout three years of high school, or should I follow my genuine passion for fashion?

When I discovered Vogue Winter Break, I immediately knew that it would be the perfect opportunity to broaden my perspective and build relationships with students from around the world. Little did I know, an even greater surprise was waiting for me.

What significance does studying in New York City hold for you, and what was the most interesting thing you learned or experienced during your time there?

I participated in Vogue Winter Break during my exchange year. Having grown up in Jakarta, Indonesia, New York felt strangely familiar. It’s a place where people from all over the world gather to chase their dreams.

Every day after class, I set out to cross items off my bucket list. I visited Times Square and Rockefeller Center, went shopping in SoHo, explored The Met and took peaceful walks through Central Park.

One day, I ordered an Uber and unexpectedly met a driver who spoke my native language, Indonesian. After nearly five months of speaking only my second language, the feeling was indescribable. It was a heartwarming, beautiful moment and I labeled it the best day of the program.

This program opened so many doors to endless opportunities. Most importantly, it taught me how a simple conversation between human beings can turn into one of the most significant turning points in your life.

Describe your favorite day of the program. Where did you go and who did you meet?

It is difficult to choose just one favorite day, but days three and four were undoubtedly the highlights for me.

On day three, I met Sache Taylor, Special Events Director at Vogue, and she answered our questions with complete transparency. Her insider perspective gave me a true sense of how the fashion industry operates.

On day four, we visited the Condé Nast offices. Walking those halls felt surreal, like a scene straight out of The Devil Wears Prada. It was there that my ambition truly sparked and I set a goal for myself: “One day, I will make my path here; I will work at Condé Nast.”

Can you describe your final project?

For my final project, I worked with my teammates Dahin, Kayleen and Ella, to develop a wedding shoe brand called Aetrix. We focused on building a brand specifically for young brides who appreciate beauty in the smallest details. Aetrix is a customization-based brand that features lace as its iconic, signature fabric.

What were some of the most valuable skills you gained from working on your final project?

The final project was a huge learning curve for me. Honestly, it wasn’t always easy.

I had to learn how to actually navigate the moments when everyone has a different idea, and you have to somehow find a single path forward as a team. I realized that in the fashion industry, you’re always going to face that tension.

It’s a delicate balance of respecting everyone else’s perspective while still having the guts to maintain your own stance. I learned that sometimes, being flexible is exactly what is needed to create something that everyone is actually proud of.

Beyond the teamwork, I got deep into the technical side of things, like building a customer profile for our brand. We obsessed over the details of our target audience and why lace would be our signature.

I learned that a great project isn’t just a random creative idea, it’s about understanding exactly who you’re talking to and knowing how to listen to the people you’re working with.

How did your experience at Vogue Winter Break influence your perspective on your future studies or career path?

I have always felt torn between science and fashion, between what felt like a safe path and my true passion. This program helped me realize that I don’t have to choose.

Through the academic team and insights into sustainable fashion, I discovered that science and fashion are deeply interconnected. Science provides the “how,” such as the biochemistry of sustainable dyes, while fashion provides the “why.”

My heart is no longer divided; I am choosing to pursue fashion, using my analytical mind to fuel my creative soul. I am leaving New York with the courage to chase a dream that is finally, undeniably, mine.

What is your advice for future Vogue Winter Break students?

My advice to future students is to embrace the uncertainty. It is perfectly okay if you don’t know exactly what you want to do yet. This program is the foundation that will help you find out.

Don’t be afraid to have big ambitions. Let them be the fuel that drives you toward your goals.

Most importantly, remember that fashion is about more than just clothes; it is about human stories and the genuine connections you make with people from all over the world. Trust the process, find your voice and be the bridge between your different interests.