Róisín MacGinley-White is a BA (Hons) Fashion Marketing student. Originally set on studying Politics, Roisin had a change of heart and applied for her Fashion Marketing course through Clearing. In this blog, she explains how easy it was to go through the Clearing process and shares what she loves about her course.

Course: BA (Hons) Fashion Marketing

Tell us a bit about yourself, why you chose to study your course and what interests you the most about the subject area? 

I am a 20 year-old from Brighton going into my final year of BA (Hons) Fashion Marketing at Leeds Beckett. Fashion is one of the most important aspects of my life. It provides me with confidence, joy and a meaningful way to connect with others. Ethical and sustainable fashion is a huge passion for me as fashion is a massive part of my identity, and I make a point of sourcing all my clothes second hand or from ethical stores. 

Fashion is one of the most polluting industries, so it’s important we learn to make fashion have a positive impact on the world and environment. I also love to understand the role of culture and social structures in fashion. This has a massive influence on my photography, which is a large part of the pathway I’ve chosen on my course.

Talk us through your experience of applying for your course through Clearing – how did you find the process? 

Originally, I had planned on studying Politics with Quantitative Methods at Manchester University but after taking a gap year I decided to change tack to fashion. I visited my cousin in Leeds and got a feel for the vibrant student atmosphere of the city. I attended the Leeds Beckett Open Day and was impressed by the facilities and the knowledge of the fashion lecturers. I decided that this was the right university for me. 

What have been the highlights of your course?

As I was originally going to study Politics, it was incredibly important to me that I would study fashion whilst considering the cultural and social context. The Contextual Studies modules have allowed me to explore my interest in colonialism, feminism and how subcultures have influenced fashion trends. 

Fashion photography is a major passion of mine, so a massive highlight of the course has been creating fashion shoots for the Visual Communications modules. The best thing about my course is how it balances relevant marketing and historical theory with practical creative modules. 

What would you say to someone who is considering applying for a course through Clearing?

Definitely do it! You will be spending the next three years at university, it’s so important that you are studying something you will enjoy in a place where you will be happy. The process is so simple and so rewarding. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

What are your plans for the future upon graduation?

Studying at Leeds Beckett has introduced me to so many career opportunities. Through the university I was able to land the role of Digital Marketing Manager of a premium menswear store.  I have also been running the Leeds School of Arts social media accounts. 

I hope to build on this work experience and combine it with my passion for sustainability, to have a future career in sustainable fashion. I would love to be part of an exciting, sustainable, and ethical future for fashion.