Student Spotlight
Tatiana Francis
Business of Fashion Major
Tatiana Janee Francis is proof that success can come on your own timeline. The South Ozone Park, Queens, native took a nine-year break from education after losing her mother the same year she graduated high school. During that time, she worked multiple retail jobs, which sparked her interest in fashion and retail.
Despite a bout of imposter syndrome—"I didn’t know if I belonged in college after waiting so long"—she enrolled at Kingsborough Community College to follow her dream. “As the oldest of three siblings, I wanted to set a good example by pursuing something I love,” she shared. “My approach might have been unconventional, but I believe life is a marathon, not a sprint.” This January, Tatiana will graduate from college with an associate degree in the business of fashion, becoming the first in her immediate family to do so.
She chose Kingsborough because of its specialized fashion program and the opportunity it offered to make the most of her retail experience. “Having worked in retail for almost a decade, I've seen firsthand how customer behavior, seasonal demand, and even global economic factors impact inventory and sales strategies," she noted.
"On one hand, fashion is driven by trends, cultural shifts, and consumer desires—elements that require a deep understanding of design, style, and innovation. On the other hand, the business side involves managing supply chains, marketing strategies, pricing, and financial forecasting, which are essential to turning creative concepts into profitable products,” she explained. “KCC's program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the product process, as well as the business side of the industry. It ensures students learn how to operate an ethical and knowledgeable business, whether in a physical store or through e-commerce.”
It's the blend of creativity and strategic decision-making in the fashion business that Tatiana finds particularly intriguing. “The fast-paced nature of fashion, with its constant need to adapt to changing trends and markets, makes the business side of the industry both challenging and exciting. It's fascinating to observe how fashion brands, from luxury to fast fashion, navigate these dynamics, whether through collaborations, pricing tactics, or sustainability efforts. I love how decisions on the business side directly influence the overall consumer experience and brand identity. It's a perfect balance between art and commerce.”
Outside of the classroom, Tatiana assisted in facilitating the school’s fashion show, hosted interviews with authors for her fashion classes, and even made an appearance in a TV segment produced in KCC’s television studio.
She also participated in the College’s 3R’s Initiative (Reclaim, Reimagine, Repurpose), a program that allows students to hone what they’ve learned in the classroom by running an on-campus shop. “In addition to working on marketing strategies and setting up inventory for new designs, we learned how to transform vintage clothing into new and exciting pieces. We showcased our designs in the KCC Spring Fashion Show and sold them at the shop, donating the proceeds to a non-profit organization.”
In addition, she completed a merchandising internship with KITH at its Williamsburg headquarters. There, she worked closely with design and wholesale teams, managed samples, updated calendars, and organized apparel seasons. The experience enhanced her industry knowledge and affirmed her career goals of becoming a merchandiser or buyer.
Tatiana credits KCC's supportive community and resources for helping her stay on track, including the food pantry, computer loans, and shuttle service from the train station. She particularly values the encouragement of Business of Fashion Professor Michael Palladino, who she met on her first day on campus. “That encounter has shaped my journey immensely. He has encouraged me to participate in various events and has consistently believed in my voice and potential. I will always be grateful for his support and dedication to pushing his students to excel,” she said.
After graduating, Tatiana plans to transfer to City Tech to major in business and technology of fashion. To students just starting out, she advises, “It’s perfectly normal not to have a clear idea of what you want to pursue when you first start school. Focus on setting achievable goals for yourself and remember to be gentle with yourself if things don’t go as planned. Tutoring can be incredibly beneficial, so don’t hesitate to seek help. Believe in your potential; you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.”