Fashion Institute of Technology
New York, NY, USA

Reviews

Fashion Institute of Technology

Tina from Quincy, MA

a past student here
41 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Did learn a lot
The teachers are all well experienced and have been in the industry for a minimum of ten years before teaching. They all held high positions related to the fashion industry so they bring their knowledge into the classroom. They give hands-on activities that occur to best prepare you before entering the real-world.
Did enjoy being here
Fashion Institute of Technology is located in the heart of Manhattan. The entire city is your playground. There is never a dull moment.
Bang for the buck
Fashion Institute of Technology is considered one of the top fashion schools in the world but because of its affiliation with SUNY they are able to keep their tuition cost low. The cost of school a semester is about $11,000 for tuition and room and board!
Tips for prospective students
Prepare yourself, this school is competitive and everyone is your competition.
Great for these types of students
If you know you love fashion there is no other place you should be than right here.

Nicole from Somerset, NJ

a current student here
19 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors have so much background and really make it interesting so you want to learn.
Am enjoying being here
New York City is just one of my favorite places and the atmosphere really puts you in the right mood to be determined to succeed.
Bang for the buck
The teachers really go all the way for the students. They want everyone to go above and beyond. Even a simple English class goes the extra mile.
Tips for prospective students
good grades is a must and you have to be really determined.
Great for these types of students
creative, outgoing, determined. People here are really into art and creativity and it's just a good atmosphere to be around people that are all into the same thing.

Talisa from Hialeah, FL

a current student here
14 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I took fashion design classes in high school so for me my first semester what a breeze and i did very well in all my classes. What i loved about being in FIT was the fact that so much time is dedicated to each aspect of fashion design; draping, fashion illustration, pattern making, sewing, and photoshop or in your freshmen year model drawing and life drawing. So you really learn very well in each area which is great. Also there are a lot of pretty awesome professors who really make the experience very different for each person attending the school.
Am enjoying being here
New York is no doubt the best place to go to for fashion design besides Europe but there is always study abroad programs which FIT is great at advertising about. The campus is right in the middle of everything literally! its on 27th st which is only a couple blocks away from time square on 42nd st and all the fashion stores where you can buy pretty much any fabric or trim etc that you may need for classes. There is also the Fashion bookstore and the Fashion Design store in the same street as the campus but usually i find the prices to be higher in those stores. Overall i think its a great school a lot of different kinds of people and is rated very high in NYC so when saying you graduated from there is a plus.
Bang for the buck
I give this a 3 star because unless you are paying in state tuition i think FIT can get pretty expensive especially when living on campus. I paid like close to $30,000 for my first year only. Mind you the first year in FIT you aren't allowed to really apply for any FIT scholarships. The only time you can apply for an FIT scholarship is when you are in your second semester for upcoming school years. I was lucky to receive the FIT scholarship based on my GPA and academic achievement so thats gonna make this upcoming year a whole lot easier for me. So work hard because it literally pays off.
Tips for prospective students
I would say just relax and don't be nervous because the first semester is a little lighter than the second and its a new place and a lot of adjustment. Don't go crazy with tons of classes but don't slack off either if you can squeeze 3 liberals with your major classes do it! because second semester is waayyy more challenging at least if you are going into fashion design i would suggest to make the effort to cram up some liberals your first semester that way you can have a little more relax time in your second semester. trust me! i just finished my second semester with 6 classes and 7 classes in my first semester so its totally possible and i'm in fashion design. If you work hard your first year it will open doors for scholarships offered through the school. Oh and if you are person you doesn't really get much financial aid make sure to go to a councilor and the academic advisor for your major as soon as possible to talk about your options because if you don't take the initiative to look for where you can receive extra help no one will tell you and the deadlines will pass.
Great for these types of students
I think if you are a hardworking person and love what you are doing you will have no problem here. Also sorry girls there really aren't too many straight guys at this school lol the majority of people are girls and most of the guys are gay. But the atmosphere at FIT is awesome very cool laid back people who simply love what they are doing. Very creative and Innovative. the atmosphere and friendliness of FIT is what made me choose this school versus Parsons so If you like to be somewhere where people love and work hard for what they study but are still down to earth and laid back then this is the perfect school for you. :)

Hayley

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
FIT is the college for you if: You are ready to compete with thousands of other people just like you, You are (relatively) organized (even relatively is better than not at all. If you're the latter, this is not your best option), and You're not one to 'sit on your laurels' and wait for things to come to you. Sometimes, they really do! And that's great, but you can't count on it. Most people here juggle full-time jobs and social lives that directly connect to their 20 credit hours of classes each week.
Tips for prospective students
If you're not organized, I don't know if you'll make it out alive. FIT will not remind you that you should have taken that class last semester, FIT will not check to make sure you're eating properly or are getting enough sleep. You'll probably wake up after 4 years and ask- 'Did I just go to college at FIT?' unless you take initiative and are proactive. If you want to get a fashion internship -likely one of the most competitive kinds- you will be the one writing and revising your resume for 3 hours. You will be the one contacting (what seems like) hundreds of companies that fit your liking. As for friends, they will be made, but don't expect something of a Greek Life to provide you with a life-long brother or sisterhood. FIT is technically a technical school- meaning the folks here are in it to win it, to give 110% at all times, and not to 'screw around' and have a standard University lifestyle of debauchery for the first two years. If you do try to take that route, it will be made quite evident to you when you're interviewing for your first job and they ask you What else did you do when you were in College?.
Academic Rigor
Of course, there are some 'cool' professors who let you slide on homework, or give an exam that is evidently easy to pass. But as for the rest, your 3 hours of class is really just a meeting to talk about everything else that is relevant to it during the week. Projects can take weeks, Papers cannot be written overnight (If you thought your Jane Eyre thesis was a doozy a 2am - try to construct your senior Interior Design 3-D showcase thesis), and rarely are quizzes common sense, unless you were born a marketing guru. In which case, that's kind of weird, and you should have been an executive at the age of 13.
Dorm Life
DRY-CAMPUS. Did you hear that? That means nothing, at all, even if you're 27 and living in the dorms (yes that does happen). No empty bottles that you put christmas lights in, no this isn't a marijuana bowl-i made it in pottery class. There are always a few activities going on, be it free Marc Jacobs condoms and cookies in the Lounge, or a floor mixer where everyone drinks lemonade and tries to socialize. My best advice is to join the facebook groups that emerge around the time you're accepted, and find a few people that you think you'd like to be friends with. Don't be shy! It's college, people are weird and only getting weirder, so it's nice to be yourself and find other people who will grow to love you for it. I used that facebook group to find my roommates that first year, and I turned out to love them all. We're all still friends, and I have no idea where I'd be today if I chose to be randomized into the lottery and matched up with people who may not share my interests at all.
Food and Dining
FIT tries really hard. We have a cool burger bar, more cereal than you can shake a stick at, some organic things, and a sushi bar. If you have a meal plan, you are obligated to eat here everyday. If you live in the Nagler dorm, you are obligated to have a meal plan. I think the caf is nice for the snack options and copious amounts of coffee, but I don't know if I could really bring myself to eat here everyday. There is a declining balance also offered (which I think is the best option), where you pay $500 at the beginning of the semester and use it at your leisure all the way through. You're not 'forced' to have 3 square meals here everyday like a meal plan, and you can pick and choose what suits you at the time.
What to do for fun
It's NYC! What isn't fun? The first year of college, about 10 promoters will add you on facebook and lure you to a Meatpacking District club with free entry + drinks all night. This, is a smart thing for them to do, as almost everyone jumps on the opportunity. Play it cool and don't jump off a roof later that evening, and this is a nice option for when you're broke, but still want to go out at night and appear that you are not. There is a hot yoga studio around the block, a few Gyms, an H&M dangerously nearby, hundreds of moderately priced cafés and Madison Square Garden. Honestly, your options are endless. Chelsea hosts gallery openings every Thursday, which is always a good time. You could get a pizza from Rosa's across the street, or you could try to meet with the Moroccan Consulate General. Your options are practically limitless.
Bang for the buck
If you're a NY state resident, your tuition is pennies on the dollar compared to almost any other school. In-state tuition is less than $5,000 each YEAR. If you're international or out-of state, expect around $25,000, because that will include your dorming as well. There are so many payment options too, which makes those dreary zero's a little less severe to cope with.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
FIT is a fashion school, and attracts a lot of interesting cultures. There are jewish only clubs, black student union clubs, fashion merchandising clubs where you actually run the Style Shop (a little boutique of FIT students' handmade items). Also, because FIT is very come-as-you-are sexual orientation-wise, we host the Miss FIT pageant every spring: A Drag Fashion show that sells out the entire auditorium within 48 hours. Also, let it be known that FIT is one block wide, between 7th and 8th avenue on 27th street. Everything you need is within one street block, and 8 stories high. Some other NYC schools like Pratt and Parsons have their campuses scattered around the city, which makes for a daily commute just to talk with an advisor.
Great for these types of students
LGBTQ, Hard-Workers, Smart-Workers, Fashion Interested, Fashion Gurus, Social People, The Tech-Savvy, Artists, Anyone who wants a great network of people surrounding them at all times, City-lovers, Anyone who wants to leave suburbia for a bright future.
Campus Safety
It's New York City. Little do most people know, it also happens to be one of the safest cities in the entire country. Big city + Condensed area = Security everywhere. FIT makes it a point to check everyone's student badge at every entrance to the building, even if they've seen you go in an out all day 10 times. Be smart (AKA, don't leave your belongings just lying around, that's just common sense) and you will be an NYC super-survivor. Assure your mothers and fathers that it's not a scary place, and take them to a Broadway show when they visit.

maya from plattsburgh, ny

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
fit is by far the #1 school for anything in fashion industry. it's located in the heart of nyc and on fashion ave. the staff is incredible and the classes are interesting.
Tips for prospective students
i you are planning to attend fit, my advice for you is to explore nyc as much as possible. meeting new people and networking is so important! get yourself out there. connect!
What to do for fun
manhattan is your campus. there are so many places to visit. i suggest saving your money and exploring all of the incredible places to eat.
Bang for the buck
fit in my opinion, is a must for anyone looking to be apart of the fashion industry.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
we have a dye garden on our roof which is cool because the textile students can make their own colors
Great for these types of students
fit is meant for creative and determined people
Clubs and Activities
fitmsa is great for networking and meeting industry professionals
Greek Life
none
Campus Safety
incredibly safe

Michelle Smith

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
i would rate fit, 9 out of 10. fit offers endless opportunities that allow students to get involved in the fashion industry in college.
all of the professors and faculty are serious about every students success. last but not least, fashion institute provides the foundation you need to entire your profession.
Tips for prospective students
1. make sure you visit before deciding, it is an art school, not a typical university.
2. before committing to fit, make sure you feel extremely confident and interested in the major you have selected.
3. be current in whats going in the real world and the fashion world (new york times, wwd)
Academic Rigor
fit professors hold high standards for their students. most of the professors at fit are working in their field and have 20+ years of experience, so they have high expectations. students have intense core classes with liberal art classes as well. an fit student must be organized and have good time management to succeed academically .
Dorm Life
there is one all girl dorm (nagler hall), a co-ed dorm (suite style), and alumni hall that is also suite style. living on campus is extremely efficient for students because they are right across the street from fit.
Food and Dining
the meal plans options are flexible, however the food itself is limiting. not too much of an issue (due to suite style dorms), but the selection of food is small. however, there is a starbucks located within the cafeteria.
What to do for fun
it's new york city, there is plenty of fun! you are living in the heart of chelsea, right between the village and time square! you can walk on the high line and experience the city from above, you can walk to chelsea market and enjoy bakeries, shops, and restaurants. shopping is all around you and night life is always buzzing.
Bang for the buck
fit gives you the connections and networking to get anywhere in the industry. considering fit is a state school, the tuition (in state and out of state) is fairly inexpensive when comparing it to schools such as lim and parsons school of design.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
the fit museum is attached to the school and allows students to see amazing fashion exhibits. also, the library at the school is extremely impressive in textile and fashion information.
Great for these types of students
creative
outgoing
very fashion oriented
bloggers
business oriented
artistic
passionate
Clubs and Activities
merchandising society (allows you to meet guest speakers, learn how to run a small business, and provides internship opportunities)
athletics- tennis, dance team, table tennis, track and field, ect.
Greek Life
none
Campus Safety
one of the most secure college campuses in the country. there are two security guards at every entrance of fit and at every dorm. student or faculty id must be shown to enter any building at any time.

W.V. from Brooklyn, NY

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
As an art and design student, it was nice to experience professional artists teaching us the ropes on how to better our artistic styles. You'll be able to learn a lot from these professors which would allow you to further express your creativity to the world.
Am enjoying being here
Through EOP, I have managed to involve myself in a circle where I can have assistance in reaching my goals. Since I'm shy and couldn't really open up to strangers, it's difficult to interact with others, but all in all, it's a very busy, but good experience.
Bang for the buck
Living in NYC, tuition is low for in-state students, so financial woes are non-existent.
Tips for prospective students
Whatever you're doing, make sure you're good at it.

Jessica from NC

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
FIT is located in NYC, the prime location for students who are interested in the fashion industry. At this school you're given many opportunities to meet professionals in whichever industry you are going into. All of the teachers have had at least seven years of experience in their field of study in order to work there.
Tips for prospective students
This school forces you to grow up fast and prepares you for real world work experience. When you apply make sure you know which major you want to spend the next couple of years on. It is hard to switch majors because you have to reapply to the school.
Academic Rigor
Depending on your major the academic rigor may be different. Business students have a lot of reading and writing while design students put a lot of hours into their projects. The rigor depends on your past experience and knowledge.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is recommended for at least a semester. It gives you the opportunity to meet many different kinds of people. There is always some type of event going on where you can get free food and prizes or just have the chance to make a new friend.
Food and Dining
The food in the dining hall is decent. You have the choice to pick from stuff on a grill, deli, sushi, home cooked meals station, pizzeria, salad station and a global station. The menus changes at most of the stations daily. There is also a Starbucks that is located in the dining hall.
What to do for fun
The school is located in the heart of NYC so you're steps away from tons of attractions. If you don't feel like walking getting around is easy since the 1 subway line is located right by campus. There are also tons of parks to go to on a nice day.
Bang for the buck
FIT is a state university so you are getting a great education at one of the top fashion schools for a good price.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Be on the lookout when the weather is nice there is always something going on in the Breezeway (Flea Markets and performers). Also make sure you go to the Block Party at the end of the year. There is free food and attractions, last year there was a zip-line that went down 27th street.
Great for these types of students
FIT is great for students who really have a passion for their major. Don't worry not everyone is as obsessed with fashion as you would think. FIT loves students who are original and creative.
Clubs and Activities
There is a club for almost everything! And if you want to start a new club its super easy to do.
Greek Life
There is no Greek life, which is kind of disappointing.
Campus Safety
Campus Safety is one of their top priorities at FIT. Security guards walk up and down the street at all hours. In order to enter any building you need to flash your ID and sign in all guests.

Kedrick from New York, NY

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The Fashion Institute of Technology isn't solely based on the studying of fashion. Inspiration comes from a variety of sources, from your peers, to the New York City skyline. Lastly the opportunities are endless.
Tips for prospective students
Live
Laugh
Learn
and study hard lol
Academic Rigor
Being in NYC and going to a fashion school, the instructor's expect the very best from you. Many of them are trained professionals who have, or are still working in the industry. Stay on top of your academic's and don't get caught up in the lifestyle.
Dorm Life
Coming from my stand point, the male to female ratio is ridiculous. For every 20 girls there is 1 boy. Which this is a knife that cuts both ways, because 99.8% of the male population is gay !
The dorms are located right on campus, smack dabbed in the middle of the Chelsea District/ Fashion District, with the view of Times Square right down the block.
Food and Dining
Eww .. the food is tasty on some days, but everyone misses home cook meals.
What to do for fun
EXPLORE ! HAVE FUN ! You're in NYC for a reason.
Bang for the buck
It's pricey, especially for out of state students. Let's just say if your roommate is from the Bronx, and you're all the way from Arizona, expect to be paying 3x the amount he is.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Chelsea Piers, enough said. I'll tell you the tradition when you get here ;)
Great for these types of students
Artist's
Visionaries
Die-Hard fashioner's
weirdo's
Individuals
Dreamers
Clubs and Activities
The various amount of club and activities will help you out in the future with various amount of tasks.
Greek Life
What Greek Life? lol
Campus Safety
Rated the 8th safest school in the nation, and number 1 in New York City. Do I need to tell more ?

Mario from Brooklyn, NY

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
This a great State University school. The both Art and School of design and their Business school train you with hands on experience. The teachers I have had are all practicing experienced artists that have taught at other prestige colleges.
Tips for prospective students
Stay on top of your assignments and deadlines. Try to develop mentoring relationships with your teachers and advisors. Always push it to the furthest you can with all of your projects.
Academic Rigor
This is a challenging school. Fine Arts is very competitive and the teachers expect that of this department. You are in Fine Arts with thousands of other artists from other school so the department at FIT trains you vigorously.
Dorm Life
The dorms here are small but they are in Manhattan. There is no better place to live.
Food and Dining
The cafeteria here has funny hours but you are in the center of the universe. You can always find a bite in the immediate area.
What to do for fun
There are always gallery opening every Thursday in Chelsea. This is great way to meet other artists and form a sense of reference to the art world. The school offers many clubs and activities to suit all people. I personally like to take advantage of their open gym hours.
Bang for the buck
This is a state university. For in-state students this is a great affordable school to attend. The education here is a steal for the tuition money.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The great hall is a great place to find isolated study time.
Great for these types of students
If you are a hands on individual that is not afraid of a challenge or failure. If your passion is fashion then you will be inspired by most students here.
Clubs and Activities
The Urban Studio and Art Collective clubs stand out in the Fine Arts department. They offer a lot more in other majors which are excellent ways to develop a student community.
Campus Safety
You must have your ID at all times. The security people are really on top of that and enforce the rules to the fullest extent. I feel pretty safe once inside the campus.