Name: Francis Barriga
Major: Retail Merchandise Management
Year: Senior
Hometown: Lino Lakes, MN
HC: What made you decide to go to UW-Stout?
FB: I actually transferred in the middle of my freshman year to join the retail program. The retail program at Stout is really strong, and not many other schools have a strong retail program.
HC: What’s your favorite thing about Stout?
FB: I really love how everyone is so nice and friendly! It’s so easy to meet people, especially with all the different orgs on campus.
HC: How are you involved on campus?
FB: I am the President of the Stout Retail Association. I also am a Love Your Melon Campus Ambassador, and I’ve been a member of the Dance Ensemble.
HC: How did you decide to pursue a Retail Merchandising and Management major?
FB: I’ve always had an interest in the fashion industry. My dream is to open up my own fashion boutique and I knew that having this major would help me achieve that.
HC: What kind of things does the Stout Retail Association have planned for the year?
FB: We have so many fun events planned for this year! In October we will be doing a Minnesota trip, where we get to visit Valley Fair and get a “behind the scenes” tour and stay for Valley Scare. We also will be making a trip out to Chicago to visit a few retail corporate offices and get to know the city!
HC: What are your plans and aspirations for the future?
FB: My plan is to work in a retail corporate office for a few year as a buyer or product developer. Then once I’ve gained enough experience, I plan on opening up my own boutique in Minneapolis!
SPEED ROUND
Favorite Spot on Campus: The seats near the fireplace at the fireside café
Favorite Movie: Jurassic World
Favorite App: Pinterest
One Word Your Friends Use to Describe You: Crafty (thanks to Pinterest!)