Senior psychology major Natalie Kocab took one last big initiative before she graduates. As an extremely involved member of this campus, and a budding fashionista, Natalie jumped at the chance to bring the international brand boohoo.com to the states, more specifically, this campus. She has committed herself to raising awareness about the brand, and now she sits down to talk with Her Campus about how she hopes to spread the word about this shopping destination. Boohoo’s main competitors are sites like Asos, Tobi, and Nasty Gal, but with the price points of Forever 21 and top-notch quality, Natalie assures us that this site is the next best thing.
HC: What are you involved with on campus?
NK: On campus I am involved Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization which builds homes for qualifying families in need of a better place to live. I am also involved with the UMD psychology research lab where I am in charge of aiding in the experimental process as well as organizing and filing data reports. Occasionally I volunteer at the Maryland Food Co-Op. I am a big supported of the co-op because they value organic, fair trade produce and solidarity. They also offer many vegan and gluten-free options, which I think is very important on such a large college campus with little access to healthier food alternatives.
HC: How did you find out about Boohoo.com?
NK: While I was studying in London I saw boohoo’s advertisements around the city. So, when I found out they were offering internship opportunities to students at U.S. colleges I was really excited.
HC: What are you doing for Boohoo.com?
NK: Currently I am in the process of planning a fashion show at UMD featuring night-out apparel from boohoo.com. The event is going to take place on November 18th (so mark your calendars!) I am also constantly updating our social media handles to make sure everyone who is following us is aware of the latest discount codes and seasonal trends.
HC: What are your responsibilities as PR/Event manager for boohoo.com?
NK: My responsibilities are to coordinate and execute promotional events on campus; develop promotional tactics to spread awareness about the brand; distribute promotional materials and codes provided by boohoo; and last but not least, work with my Social Media partner, Libby, to work Maryland’s boohoo Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.
HC: What has planning the fashion show entailed?
NK: Planning the show has been an exciting new challenge for me. I am new to event planning of any kind so I have tried to be as organized as possible. It has entailed me doing a lot of research; writing up numerous budget plans, revising them, and writing them up again. I recruited my friends as models and hand-selected outfits that they will be wearing during the show. I booked a dj, brainstormed about event logistics, and cooperated with the UMD Her Campus team to book the room and plan the layout of the event space. I also designed and helped execute posters for the event. The planning is not over yet!
HC: Who is the boohoo girl?
NK: The boohoo girl is someone who is trendy but does not take fashion too seriously. She is someone who is spontaneous, quirky, and likes to have fun.
HC: Why do you think boohoo will be successful on this campus?
NK: boohoo will be successful because the clothes are perfect for college students in that they are affordable, high quality, and easily wearable. boohoo has clothing options available for any occasion!
HC: What’s your favorite perk about the internship?
NK: The fashion! I love getting exclusive access to the look books that feature the newest trends for each season. I also love my role as PR/Event planner because it allows me to take on a leadership role in planning various campus promotional events.
HC: How would you describe your style?
NK: My style ranges from laid-back bohemian to classy and feminine, without being overly girly. My style changes depending on my mood – I could never choose to have just one type of personal style.
HC: What does it mean to be a trendsetter?
NK: To me a trendsetter is someone who pushes her personal style boundaries. I try to embody being a trendsetter by getting out of my own comfort zone and trying out new trends, even though sometimes I am initially nervous to do so.
HC: Who are your fashion role models?
NK: My main fashion role models are Blake Lively, Kate Moss, Shay Mitchell, and Miranda Kerr.
HC: What’s your favorite place on campus?
NK: The outdoor sitting area just outside of the Bio-Psychology and Bio-Research building.
HC: Favorite Fall Activity?
NK: Baking! I love to bake and fall lets me incorporate seasonal fruits such as apples and pumpkins into my creations. I love Thanksgiving – I always make a mean sweet potato casserole and pumpkin cake role.
HC: What are you most excited for this semester?
NK: The fashion show I am executing!
HC: If had to wear the same thing everyday, what would it be?
NK: Black skinny jeans, gold flats, and a simple & feminine silk button-down.
HC: What advice do you have for a freshman reading this Q&A?
NK: Your style is likely to change; don’t be afraid to experiment and be true to yourself! That being said, your mind is also likely to change about who or what you want to be when you are done with school. Don’t limit yourself to one option based on what others tell you is the best path to take. Let yourself be whom you want to be and success will follow.
Do you think you’re a boohoo girl? Well get shopping and spread the word at boohoo.com!