The Licensing International Foundation’s mission focuses on the next generation of licensing leaders, awarding students from around the world who are interested in a career in brand licensing at all stages of their educational journey.

What was your reaction when you first found out you had received a Licensing International Foundation Scholarship?
My first reaction when finding out I received the Licensing International Foundation Scholarship was immense gratitude. I woke up on Friday morning and routinely checked my email. When I saw an email from Maria with the subject line regarding the scholarship, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. I was super nervous to open it, but as soon as I read that I had won, I was immediately overwhelmed with joy. With the stress of finals right before, it was a moment of pure happiness and validation, knowing that my hard work and dedication had been recognized.

What did receiving this scholarship mean to you?
Receiving this scholarship meant everything to me because it was the final piece of aid I needed to graduate debt-free—a huge accomplishment, especially since I am the first person in my family to graduate from college. Initially, I knew that transferring to a private school in New York City would be financially challenging, but I was determined to do everything I could to apply myself and make it happen. This scholarship represents not just financial support, but also the recognition of my hard work and the realization of a dream that seemed impossible at times.

How has the Scholarship Program helped jumpstart or further your career?
This Scholarship Program has been instrumental in jumpstarting my career by providing not only financial support but also a boost in confidence and recognition within the industry. It also gave me the freedom to focus more on my internship and educational goals in my last semester of college rather than worrying about financial constraints.

Did this scholarship make you rethink your career goals?
I have always aspired to become a buyer for a retail company, but this scholarship sparked a deeper interest in licensing. While writing my essay about Barbie, I realized just how quintessential licensing is and how deeply it influences so many aspects of our lives. This experience broadened my perspective and made me consider how I might incorporate licensing into my career path, whether through a buying role that involves licensed products or perhaps even exploring opportunities directly within the licensing industry.

How have you grown professionally and personally from this experience?
Professionally, this experience has given me the confidence and validation to pursue my career aspirations more assertively. It has also introduced me to the licensing industry in a way I hadn’t anticipated, broadening my understanding of the field and how it intersects with retail buying. Personally, this scholarship has been a source of immense pride and motivation. It has also deepened my appreciation for the organizations that help us achieve our goals, and it has inspired me to give back and support others in their journeys whenever possible.

What advice would you give to current college students who are thinking of applying to the 2024 Scholarship Program?
I would advise current college students to ALWAYS apply themselves and seize every opportunity that comes their way. You never know what doors might open until you take that chance. For me, I learned about the Licensing International Foundation Scholarship through a webinar offered by my school. If I hadn’t participated, I might have missed out on an opportunity that positively affected my senior year. I would also say to stay proactive and don’t hesitate to apply—even if you’re unsure of the outcome.

Looking ahead, what are your next steps or aspirations?
Looking ahead, my immediate goal is to secure an Assistant Buyer position where I can apply the skills and knowledge I’ve gained through my education in Fashion Merchandising and my internships in retail buying. In the long term, I aspire to grow within the buying department, eventually taking on more strategic responsibilities like leading a team or managing a specific department.

As part of our mission to inspire the next generation of talent globally while advancing the understanding of licensing in society, Licensing International’s Scholarship Program grants scholarships to deserving individuals around the world who are interested in a career in brand licensing. Scholarships are available for students at all stages of their educational journey seeking degrees in business, marketing, design, engineering, entrepreneurial studies, e-commerce, and other brand licensing industry-related programs, and will be made directly to the institution to cover educational expenses.  Support the next generation of brand licensing professionals with a donation to the Licensing International Scholarship Fund. Even the smallest donation can make an impact in our community.