They say everything’s bigger in Texas – and that includes the dreams. This is especially true for UNC junior Madison Pfaff. Known for her big accessories and even bigger heart, the Texas native has already left her “Heelprint” on campus through her inimitable style and philanthropic efforts. Read on to find out the high heels this Tar Heel is trying to fill – in diversifying the fashion world and the realm of STEM.
Age: 19
Hometown: Lucas, Texas
Major: Computer Science, Mathematical Decision Sciences
Fashion icon: My best friend, Jordan Main
“Lucky” article of clothing: My rings
HC: You’re from the Lone Star state. What made you choose UNC?
MP: Besides loving the color of Carolina blue, I wanted to challenge myself and attend a university outside of my beloved Texas where I didn’t have the comfort of knowing even one person. I loved UNC because of the diversity of people and their pride in their passions and backgrounds, which really resonated with me when visiting colleges in high school.
HC: What organizations have you gotten involved with on and off campus?
MP: I am fortunate enough to have found so many different organizations here at Carolina. I am the Media and Communications Coordinator for the Scholars’ Latino Initiative, a mentoring program with UNC undergrads and exceptional Latino high school students. I work with middle school Latina students through SLIence and promote positive self-image and STEM fields. In addition to being an RA, I am also involved with TEDxUNC and Pearl Hacks. Another that I thoroughly enjoy is working with boohoo.com for their brand ambassador program.
HC: Talk to me about boohoo. How’d you get involved with their brand ambassador program and what are your responsibilities?
MP: I love working for boohoo! I actually found it through Her Campus’s Facebook promotions early last semester and decided to apply. I have the privilege of being the public relations or event manager where I have an awesome social media manager as a partner. My job is really to connect the campus to the brand through ways of weekly promotions to our event every semester –that’s the best part. Last semester, I hosted a “Work Your Flavor” Event, where students could come with friends, try on all of the latest boohoo favorites, and enjoy the night knowing they could be leaving with their favorite item! Super fun!
HC: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from the program thus far?
MP: The biggest lesson I’ve learned was how to show off boohoo’s many great styles for the many diverse individuals on campus. There is bound to be some trend or article of clothing that you will fall in love with it.
HC: How would you describe your personal style and how do you muster the energy to remain fabulous when finals are so close?
MP: I am a firm believer in “You dress well, you test well,” so you’ll most likely always see me dressed up in the bright patterns with layers of accessories even on exam week. Thanks to boohoo, I have a lot more confidence in trying out a variety of different styles and more enthusiasm too because I have so many awesome clothes in my closet!
HC: Do you think you’ll delve into fashion after you graduate? If not, what’s your passion?
MP: Fashion will always be a love of mine, but my main passion is promoting higher education and STEM subjects to Latino students.
To keep up with Madi and her forays in fashion and STEM education, follow her on Twitter at @madison_pfaff.