Name: Abigail Adjei
Major: Management
Graduation Year: 2013
Hometown: Accra, Ghana
HC: Congratulations on graduating, Abi! What are you going to miss the most about Bryant?
AA: Even though we complain and groan about how much work we have to do, we should be fortunate for living in a shielded environment where we don’t have to worry about climbing the corporate ladder and paying rent. I know we hate all the work now, but one day I’m going to look back and say “I miss those days when someone just told me what to do, I did it, and then handed it in.”
HC: Looking back, do you feel different now as opposed to when you were a freshman? If so, how?
AA: In all actuality I did not expect to know what career I wanted to pursue but knowing exactly what I want to do is so refreshing and exciting. I have a lot of confidence and a great network of professionals and friends that I can rely on!
HC: Any postgrad plans in store for you?
AA: I am going back to Ghana to work with my dad and finally getting the chance to regroup with charity workers I used to work with in high school.
HC: This interview wouldn’t be complete without asking you about your amazing fashion sense! Where do you get your inspiration from? Can we steal your wardrobe?
AA: Aww that’s so sweet! My fashion sense is inspired by my Ashanti (a region in Ghana) background and three Ashanti women in my life – my mom and my two older sisters. Till this day, young and old people still wear traditional vibrant Ashanti fabric. Unlike in America where you shop at retail stores, in Ghana we go out in search of that one unique Ashanti fabric and go to a seamstress to get clothes custom made. Women in Ghana love dressing up and standing out – the only way to do that is to take risks and try bold things. That’s the root of my inspiration for fashion–I love bold colors, mixing western influences with African influences, and trying new things! Oh and please steal my wardrobe, seriously I’m moving back to Ghana and I don’t know where to put all my clothes, but I’m definitely not dragging it back with me.
HC: Do you see yourself working in the fashion industry someday?
AA: Absolutely! I’ve worked in both high fashion and street fashion during my four years at Bryant. I did that purposefully to get a feel for different aspects of life and culture that influence an individual’s sartorial choices. With the knowledge I’ve garnered through that, I would love to own my store one day!
HC: We wish you the best of luck on all your future endeavors! Any final remarks before you leave Bryant?
AA: Network, network, network! I know we hear it ALL the time but when you’re looking for a job or for sound professional advice, there are certain professors at Bryant who will prove to be invaluable mentors for you.