Chezzrae Parker
Associate of Arts in Fashion Design & Product Development '24
What inspired you to pursue your degree and major?
Discovering my talent was the first step to knowing I could go far in my field and really make something of it and the route I took to pursue Fashion Design and Product Development at Wade made it super easy. The fact that the talent was mine and given to me had always inspired me, but I needed the push to actually pursue it. Fashion could mean anything but when you use it to make a difference it means everything. In pursuing a walk with Christ first, I realized that I could dream again and this dream was actually a reality when I researched the best school (I didn’t know it at the time). Failed choices with past schools have landed me here at Wade. I couldn’t be more fulfilled anywhere else!
What is your career goal?
To have my degree in Fashion, leave an iconic mark in the fashion industry, be an expert in my field, run an international manufacturing company, make a career out of clothing the homeless, travel for trade shows, fashion shows, etc.
How is Wade helping you to pursue your career goals?
Whether it’s a charity event, a family get-together, or whether I’m at work I represent my school well. I’m able to bring a mixture of my talent alongside all of the industry knowledge that I have now and overflow of because of Wade. Wade is a big portion and important part of my life.
What are some of your most memorable moments so far while a student at Wade College?
My most memorable moment so far was meeting the creator of NYFW, Fern Mallis, who is very humble and such a sweet person. Other memorable moments are from all the impactful volunteer opportunities that landed me in one of the highest skyscrapers in downtown Dallas. Also, I attended and competed in fashion shows with colleagues at the World Trade Center and did internships where I was able to purchase wholesale for the first time.
What has been your favorite class so far?
Photoshop has been my favorite class so far because I now know how to create a digital pattern that way when I’m ready to create a fashion brand with a specific print I’m able to do so. Also with Photoshop, I’m able to create, design and illustrate croquis, and also edit anything I want! It has helped me achieve many goals. I can put together anything in Photoshop from a zipper to a dress!
What do you enjoy most about your Wade College experience?
What I enjoy most is knowing that every second I spend on campus at Wade I’m being productive towards my entrepreneur goals.
What advice would you give to a brand-new student?
I would advise brand-new students to work hard, be themselves, and be the best!
What do you love about Wade College most?
Wade College wastes no time and puts their students first and they see a need and make it happen. I love the new lounge we have and the new Future Business Owners Association Club that we now have as well for students like myself who want their own business.
What do you think makes Wade College different than other colleges and universities?
What makes Wade different than any other college and university is the system in place designed to help you graduate and finish to obtain your degree. Teaching industry-related techniques at the corporate level. Also, the staff is so patient and works with each student carefully!
Anything else you'd like to share?
I could not have gotten this far without my awesome professors!!🙂