What year did you graduate the program?  

I graduated from the program in June of 2023

What different jobs have you had since graduating from AD&D?

I worked at K9 Voyagers from September 2023 to December 2023 and then was hired at Nordstrom as an Assistant Designer in January 2024

What specific skills did you learn in school that helped you prepare for your job?

Some specific skills I learned from school that helped me prepare for my job was understanding color theory and the importance of color during the different seasons (ex: Fall & Winter), Understanding different techniques and problem solving skills in pattern making, Understanding the importance of construction skills and how thread, fabric, and tension matter when creating a garment, Creating presentations and sketching in Microsoft applications (Word & PowerPoint) and Adobe (Illustrator & Photoshop), and how important deadlines are within the fashion industry.

What is your current job title and what are your responsibilities?

Assistant Designer at Nordstrom’s corporate office in Seattle. Responsibilities include:

- Sketching, designing, and choosing colors for the garments

- Setting up rooms for buyers to come and buy the garments

- Fitting garments for the season/previous seasons

- Trend research for upcoming silhouettes, colors, and events that captivate customers

- Working closely with technical designers, merchants, product developers, and so many other roles

- Train interns and meet with anyone that is interested in a designer role

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself moving on with my talents and building up my brand Anik Atelier and fully indulging into the business aspect of fashion, doing runway shows all across the country, and having a store front in more than one place.

Which designer/s are really inspiring you these days?

The designers that I am currently inspired by are Jacquemus, Alaia, Hanifa, Laquan smith, Loewe and so many more brands. 

What was your favorite aspect of the AD&D program?

My favorite aspect of the program was getting to be around so many other creative individuals who was inspired and dedicated to the same things as me. The connections I made with the teachers and students really helped me to understand teamwork and growth as a young upcoming designer who has bright plans for her future. 

What advice would you offer students currently enrolled in the program?

The advice I would give to the students that are currently enrolled in the program and the ones to come is that it’s ok to make mistakes learn from them and use the mistake as an opportunity to grow. It’s important to meet deadlines and organize your work effectively so that you don’t feel overwhelmed or fall behind. Walk into the studio with your head held high knowing that you will learn something new that will help your future endeavors. Last but not least it’s ok to want to go the simple route and it’s also ok to want to do more just make sure you’re having fun while doing it!

Is there anything you'd like to add about the AD&D program?

I have nothing to add but I’d like to say Thank you to Scott, Ondine, and Tanya for being such great teachers and always inspiring me to learn more and helping me when I may have needed help in their subjects. It’s amazing to know that the program is still going strong and I’m happy to be and Alumni

Where can people find your work on social media?

People can find my work on Instagram @atelieranik or on Donnikajackson.com