This fall semester is an exciting one for returning student Sam Fedyk. With TCFDA certificate courses - Fashion Design, Illustration, Creative Design, Pattern Making & Assembly - under his belt, he is currently enrolled in 3-year Diploma Program in Fashion Design & Creative Arts.

Born and raised in Vancouver, Sam grew up involved in organized sports and played hockey his whole life. When not at the rink, he likes hanging out with friends, biking, and going to the beach for a swim. On his creative side, he has always enjoyed making music and clothing.

We spoke with Sam after a project presentation to learn more about navigating his education and future career choices.

In the beginning, why did you decide to apply at The Cut for your education?

Initially, I didn't think about going straight into fashion school from high school as I looked more in the direction of music production. However, fashion has always been a big part of my life and my expression. I later considered fashion school more after taking a summer sewing class at The Cut. I then decided to continue with The Cut with my parents' encouraging me because they knew I was interested in fashion design after meeting with Robbie (Admissions).

How do you feel you have grown while attending The Cut?

I feel I have grown a lot. Personally, people know me either as the quietest or the loudest person in the room. However, nobody really knows me as a creative or serious person. At The Cut, they've pushed my creative side, supporting me to share my ideas no matter what. Since coming to the school, they've only pushed me further to share my ideas, never being judgmental, and always giving constructive feedback.

My confidence to share my work has gone up. I have found my lane and am pursuing something I'm really passionate about.

What skills are you looking forward to learning this semester?

So far, I've gotten the basics down of designing and making clothes while developing my personal brand style along the way. This semester, I want to take those skills, solidify who I am as a brand, and target my audience and expand.

What is it about fashion that gets you excited for your future?

When thinking about my goals in fashion, I want to connect with people; so, I look forward most to connecting with similar consumers.

What are your plans upon graduating?

So far, nothing is set in stone. As far as I know, when I graduate, I want to apply to a bigger school outside of Vancouver, such as Parsons, to get a degree. I want to live somewhere else for a little while, too.

What excites you the most about 2021?

Coming off of a great summer, the opportunity for growth in 2021 really excites me. This upcoming year, I'm going in with a whole new set of skills. In the past year, at the Cut, I've learned the basic skills to start my own line. So, we'll see what that holds!