The apparel industry is ever-changing. Therefore, it is important to experience the industry first-hand as University of Arkansas student, CarLonda Sandidge, did on the 2016 AMPD Study Tour in China. CarLonda Sandidge is a major in Apparel Merchandising and Product Development in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences.
“My program included visiting apparel-focused universities and companies on an international level. I heard presentations about the inner-workings of these companies, as well as the career opportunities that are available to me, if I so choose,” said Sandidge. “I also heard from apparel design professors and students who spoke about their past research and design projects. Lastly, I had the opportunity to visit historic cultural sites including the Great Wall of China.”
Sandidge was able to see how the classes she has taken during her college career will be applied on the job.
“My experience showed how the information that I learned from my past classes are applied on the job, especially on an international level. For example, my Quality Assessment of Apparel class gave me a better understanding of the quality testing processes for apparel, shoes, and textiles,” said Sandidge. “I saw all of this first-hand when I visited the textile mill, apparel factory, and the shoe laboratory in China.”
During her tour of China, Sandidge had the opportunity to experience personal growth as well.
“I believe my experience has made me a better person,” said Sandidge. “I learned to appreciate my home country. I also have a better understanding and a great amount of respect for foreigners who visit America without knowing how to speak English. Lastly, I feel comfortable with safely venturing out of my comfort zone to visit unfamiliar places or try unfamiliar things.”
After the tour, she was able to reflect on her experience and set goals for her career path.
“My international experience has influenced my decision in choosing a career that allows me to work abroad,” said Sandidge. “I had such an exciting experience that I would like to go as far as to live and work in a foreign country, particularly China. Since I am interested in sourcing and sustainability in the apparel industry, I believe that China would be a great place to start my career.”
Sandidge promotes study abroad opportunities by urging others to take the chance and experience something new.
She said, “Participating in the international program was the greatest experience of my life. I highly suggest that if you have the opportunity to participate in one, then do it, because it will have such a positive effect on you and your future. There is so much to see our side of the United States, so why not take every opportunity that you can to experience it?”