The Senior Portfolio Review Day is integrated into the Otis Annual Exhibition, a Senior Show scheduled during the second week of May after the graduating class has completed their design portfolios and the Scholarship Benefit Show. Industry recruiters are invited to attend the event to provide invaluable feedback on the Senior class’ portfolio books. It is an ideal opportunity for upcoming graduates to explore career options available at a variety of organizations, perform first interviews, and apply for entry-level jobs in their field.
The Annual Exhibition gives students, and sometimes alumni, an opportunity to meet with prospective employers on campus. Industry professionals can offer critique on résumés and cover letters, engage with students to develop stronger networking skills, and give more details about their expectations in terms of work experience and technical skills needed.
The 2019 Portfolio Review Day hosted brands like Global Brands, Halston, Revolve, PacSun, Hurley, Paige Denim, Tadashi, St. John Knits, among many others. 94% of recent graduates secured design positions within six months from receiving their degree. The 2020 and 2021 Virtual Annual Exhibitions were presented online, to observe COVID-19 public health restrictions.
Portfolio Presentation
Graduates who are working as professionals in the fashion industry give back to their Alma Mater by showing the design and development process of their own portfolios to graduating Seniors. Alumnae Amanda Cox (class of 2018, Asst. Designer at REVOLVE, pictured above), Aja Komine (class of 2018, Asst. Designer at Guess?), Yoo Mee Kang (class of 2018, Asst. Designer at AG Jeans) and Julia Park (class of 2019, Asst. Designer at A.L.C.) shared what constitutes a strong presentation and prepare them for Portfolio Review Day.
Yoo Mee Kang (class of 2018, Asst. Designer at AG Jeans) Julia Park (class of 2019, Asst. Designer at A.L.C.) Aja Komine (class of 2018, Asst. Designer at Guess?)
Portfolio Review Day
Tapestry (Coach/Kate Spade) one on one portfolio review-virtual session on Zoom.
Theory | Helmut Lang
Theory | Helmut Lang Portfolio Review
Corporate recruiters, Jacqueline Vullo and Jillian Prejean, flew in to review Senior portfolios, and to give a presentation on the New York based contemporary sportswear label.
Internship Fair
The 2018 Portfolio Review Day hosted brands like Global Brands, Halston, Revolve, PacSun, Hurley, Paige Denim, Tadashi, St. John Knits, among many others. 60% of recent graduates secured design positions within two months from receiving their degree.
Portfolio Day - May 2018