Hi! My name is Hailey Smith, and I am a Junior at Kent State University working on a bachelor of arts degree in Fashion Design. Despite being diagnosed with POTS syndrome, I've been able to keep on track with graduation while also working part-time at Polo Ralph Lauren. My target market is designing women's western wear! The picture above is a garment I made for one of my final projects last semester. My senior year, I have the opportunity to attend the Kent State NYC Fashion Studio. The program lasts for four months, and I'd have a chance to explore different design facilities, meet celebrity designers, and have backstage passes to fashion shows that non-students wouldn't be able to experience. There's so much more to this program, and if you are interested in knowing more, please take a look at this website:

https://www.kent.edu/fashion/NYCFashion/about . All in all, this would be an excellent opportunity for me and would be fantastic to put on my resume upon graduation. The resources available to me there would also greatly benefit my final portfolio. I am asking for $2,000 to cover the deposit fee to take this trip in Fall 2022. This fee pretty much covers everything minus food and housing, which I will have covered before that semester. The fee is due this month to the university, and right now, it is not in my budget as a student considering my other expenses. I would be so thankful if I could have assistance covering the cost, and any bit helps! I appreciate you all taking the time to read my story.