I have a lot of interest in designing and styling garments but at the same time, I feel that the fashion industry is not applicable to everything as my family roots are from Uttar Pradesh Kanpur so a conundrum occurs eventually. I look forward to proving to my family how fashion designing can open pathways to excellence and success with my focus. I want them to view this career option with something that holds great opportunities for the youth and prevent them from imposing their mainstream idea of a good career on their kids.’ Also, I feel it is our responsibility to change the rigid notion about how a girl should dress up based on their class or religion.

Despite my orientation towards styling my dad too tried to prevent me from dressing up in a certain way that involved body fit or short dresses. His rationale behind the notion was that it’s a privilege exercised by those who have achieved something in the field of fashion designing. He wanted me to do B A and then b ed. and I was adamant about doing something that always interested me. I did my research for finding the best colleges and landed up with JD as my preference for the assurance I felt from their team for providing a platform where I can prove myself. I attended an open house with my dad where we were educated about what would learn in this whole journey in JD. Which helped my dad understand the creative fields and the growth it has to offer. I enrolled at JD and started exploring my potential. I participated in teachers day, Diwali function, I became miss Freshers with my talent. I’ve worked hard and will continue to do till I reach for stars. My college also gave this wonderful platform to showcase our work which TFA which helps us in learning the different stages of how we prepare our installation and garments, also we learn teamwork how to present work .. I’ve learned a lot in this short time. I am becoming more confident in my expressions as my JD Journey unfolds.

• Jigisha Awasthi (@beautifulbydefault )