Sophie Costello BA (Hons) Fashion Buying and Merchandising
![Sophie Costello](https://degreeshow.mmu.ac.uk/2023/images/avatars/b26802e76b85402a7a3d394336313b46.jpg)
Much like many other fashion students, I discovered the career of fashion buying at a young age through watching Rachel Green on Friends. Since then, my love for fashion has only grown, and MMU have been amazing in helping me transform my passions into a dream career.
I joined the Manchester Fashion Institute in 2019 not knowing what to expect and looking back I have loved every second of it!
Completing a merchandising placement year at N Brown opened my eyes to the vast opportunities that the fashion industry has. One thing I love about MFI's Buying and Merchandising degree is that it does not limit you to either Buying or Merchandising, but provides you will the skills and knowledge to secure the job that is right for you, whatever that may be.
MFI have been amazing in educating us on the environmental and ethical impacts of the fashion industry, and what is happening currently to combat this. As I am passionate about sustainable, transparent fashion, I knew I wanted to create something for my Final Major Project which positively contributed towards the circular economy. This is what motivated me to create Hangr, a secondhand resale and swap community.
Not only have MMU allowed me to build vast subject knowledge, commercial awareness and business acumen, this course has grown my confidence more than I could've possibly imagined. The support from all of my lecturers and tutors has allowed me to excel academically and also grow as an individual outside of my studies. I am nothing like the shy, introverted first-year student that I was 4 years ago, and for that I cannot thank MMU enough!
I am so excited to enter the fashion industry and continue my journey as a MMU graduate.