Olivia Martinez is a junior from Round Lake, Illinois. She is specializing in Fashion Design and Merchandising.
Why did you choose SIU? It was the only school that offered all three aspects (Design, Merchandising, and Styling) as majors of the field I wish to go into. They also work with other colleges on campus to achieve various minors and certifications. Most other schools either offer ONLY Merchandising, or ONLY Design. I want to be well-rounded and knowledgeable when I step out into the real world.
What inspired you to choose your area of study? I have loved fashion since before I can remember. I wanted to major in something I am both good at, and sincerely passionate about.
What achievement in your life are you most proud of? I am most proud of my dedication and passion for my major and career as a student. I strive for success and always try to make ambitious moves toward bettering my education and my future. It is so great to love what I do.
Why should someone consider donating to the College of Applied Sciences and Arts? We are a college of DIVERSITY. There is such an array of different majors and different people that all deserve respect, support, and the chance for greatness. We help students in all areas from Mortuary Science, to Dentistry, to Fire Safety Management, to Aviation, to Fashion Design and Merchandising and so much more.
Do you have a message you would like shared with a potential donor? Given Illinois’ current struggles, CASA and various majors within it struggle to stay afloat and be noticed in a school of so many opportunities. Any aid, of any kind, is amazingly generous and will be graciously appreciated to extents beyond what any one individual can imagine.
If you had $1,000 to donate to the College of Applied Sciences and Arts, what would you like to see that money benefit? I would have to stay loyal to my major due to the fact that I see the obstacles and challenges the program faces day in and day out. That money could aid in getting our program known and taken more seriously. It would aid in repairs for machines that are used EVERY day by various students every year. It would open doors for opportunities for our yearly fashion show displaying students’ hard work and dedication to what they love to do. The possibilities of the use of a donation are limitless.
You can support SIU College of Applied Sciences and Arts during SIU Day of Giving on Wednesday, March 1: https://siuday.siu.edu/giving-day/1003/department/1378