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 found out you had received a Licensing International Foundation Scholarship?
It was such an unforgettable moment! I was at the Museum of Natural History with my aunt and cousins who were visiting me in New York. When I saw the email, I was in total shock. I was thrilled and incredibly happy, but I had to contain my excitement because we were in a quiet gallery. I remember turning to my aunt and whispering, “I got it!” and we all shared the moment together. Later that evening, they took me out for dinner to celebrate. It was such a meaningful experience to be surrounded by family and to feel so supported.

How has the Scholarship Program helped jumpstart or further your career?
The scholarship has been a turning point in my academic and professional journey. While the financial support definitely helped ease the burden of living and studying in a new country, it meant so much more than that. It gave me and my family a sense of pride and reassurance that I was on the right path. Since then, I’ve had the chance to engage with professionals at global companies like Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Swarovski, and Fendi—opportunities I never would have imagined when I first moved here. It’s helped me build confidence, expand my network, and take bold steps in my career development.

Did this scholarship make you rethink your career goals?
Yes, it absolutely did. As a Consumer Analytics student, licensing isn’t part of my core curriculum, but receiving this scholarship inspired me to explore it more deeply. I joined Licensing International as a student member and began researching the licensing industry on my own by reading case studies, attending webinars, and even having discussions with friends in licensing courses. I realized that licensing is a fascinating field where I can apply my analytical mindset to understand consumer trends, forecast demand, and evaluate brand extension strategies. It gave me a whole new perspective on the type of roles I could pursue in the fashion and brand space. 

How have you grown professionally or personally from this experience?
This experience gave me a huge boost in confidence at a time when I needed it most. I had just moved to New York less than a year ago, and adjusting to a new city, school, and culture was exciting but also overwhelming. Being selected for the scholarship helped me feel recognized and validated. Since then, I’ve taken more initiative, spoken up more in group settings, and carried myself with a stronger sense of pride in who I am and what I’m working toward. It’s helped me grow not just professionally, but personally too.

What advice would you give to current college students who are thinking of applying to the 2025 Scholarship Program?
Don’t give up—seriously. I actually applied for the scholarship in the fall and wasn’t selected. But I didn’t let that stop me. When I saw that the spring application was open, I decided to try again—this time more prepared and confident. And it worked out! So my biggest advice is to be persistent and not take rejection personally. If you’re passionate about the industry and willing to put in the effort, keep going. The opportunities that come from it are truly worth it.

Looking ahead, what are your next steps or aspirations?
I’m very excited to take the next steps toward building a career in licensing. Right now, I’m looking for opportunities—especially internships—that will give me exposure to licensing strategy, brand partnerships, and product development. My goal is to work at the intersection of consumer insights and brand growth, helping companies make smart, data-driven decisions about their licensing programs. Long-term, I hope to work with a global brand where I can contribute to building partnerships that expand the reach and impact of a brand in a meaningful way.

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, eCommerce, 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. Additionally, our upcoming Hall of Fame and Rising Star Awards event in NYC in December is a fundraiser for the Scholarship Fund. Register for the event now—even the smallest donation can make an impact in our community.