Lauren Wong is one example of how philanthropic support in the College of Human Environmental Sciences program continues to help elevate our students’ experience during their time at the Capstone. Lauren is a sophomore from Houston majoring in apparel and textiles with a concentration in fashion retailing and very involved across campus. She is an active member in the Student Fashion Association where she serves on the executive board as secretary and head of graphics, a member of the National Retail Federation Student Association, the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society and the CHES Council for Engagement and Outreach.
Lauren’s academic achievements include making the Dean’s list her first semester and the President’s list the following spring. She credits her success on the many resources and guidance the college has provided for her. Her classes have helped channel her childhood passions and are preparing her to achieve her dream of working in the fashion industry at the corporate level. She says, “CHES [is providing] me with the skills, resources, and confidence to assert myself to opportunities in the industry and I am looking forward to my educational and professional future!”
Her journey, however, might have been different were it not for forward-thinking donors. With help from the college, Lauren was able to secure financial support to assist with travel expenses and attend the National Retail Federation Conference in New York City, where she got to meet industry leaders and ultimately secured an internship for the summer. Such funding support for student experiential learning opportunities would not be possible without the generous donors who value the positive impact immersive experiences, like this provided.
Additionally, as the recipient of the Caitlin Brady Costello Endowed Scholarship, Lauren was able to purchase needed textbooks, online materials, and other resources to support her academic goals. This financial support enables her to participate more fully in extra-curricular activities that enhance her learning.
“Without gifts and scholarships from generous donors, I would not be able to consider options such as travel for work or professional development,” says Wong. “[Their] financial support allows me to grow confidently in my skills and ambitions in and outside the classroom.”
