Isabel (Izzy) Stroth earned her B.S. in Retailing with a concentration in Fashion Merchandising and Digital Innovations in 2024. Since then, she has spent time living abroad in Florence, Italy, earning a master’s degree at world-renowned fashion school Polimoda.She recently took time to share her story.

What led you to choose USC and the Department of Retailing?

I’m originally from Atlanta, Georgia. When I toured the University of South Carolina during my senior year of high school, I immediately felt at home on campus — it had the perfect mix of community and opportunity. I chose to major in Retailing with a concentration in Fashion Merchandising because I’ve always loved fashion and wanted to understand the business and strategic side of the industry — from brand building to buying and merchandising.

Did you enjoy your major and feel it prepared you well for your next steps? Were there any USC faculty members who were especially helpful or influential?

Absolutely — I enjoyed every minute of my major. The professors at USC’s College of HRSM provided invaluable knowledge, encouragement, and real-world preparation that gave me confidence in my career path. The program’s internship and job experience requirements allowed me to gain hands-on experience in merchandising, buying, public relations, and retail management, which became the foundation for the work I do today.

Professor Jessica Chavis was especially influential in my journey. Thanks to her, I had the opportunity to work at The Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club twice — one of my favorite experiences during my four years at USC. The professionalism, teamwork, and attention to detail that experience required shaped how I approach every opportunity today. I highly recommend that any USC student take part in that incredible experience if they can.

What led to the decision to do your master’s at Polimoda?

I always knew I wanted to pursue a master’s degree and live abroad. Although I didn’t study abroad during my time at USC due to work commitments, I visited Florence while my roommates were studying there — and instantly fell in love with the city.

Polimoda Fashion School stood out as one of the top institutions in the world for fashion business and creativity, and once I learned about its global network and industry connections, it became an easy decision. Living in Florence for nine months was life-changing — the program was both academically rigorous and creatively inspiring. It was truly the best decision I’ve ever made.

You worked at Paris Fashion Week. How did that opportunity arise, and what was your role?

Polimoda often connects students with major industry opportunities through its global partnerships. This past summer, I applied to support Dries Van Noten as showroom support during Paris Fashion Week, and I was fortunate to be selected. I returned this October to work again with Dries Van Noten, this time as Global Visual Merchandising Assistant, helping prepare the collection for buyers and assisting with lookbook development.

Both experiences gave me a firsthand look into the creative and logistical sides of luxury fashion — and ultimately reaffirmed my passion for the industry.

What are your career goals now that you’ve completed your master’s degree?

I began my studies at Polimoda in February 2025 and graduated in September 2025. During that time, I gained incredible exposure to the global fashion landscape, worked alongside talented creatives and professionals, and built friendships from all over the world.

Now that I’ve graduated, my goal is to pursue a career in merchandising, buying, or public relations — ideally within a luxury fashion house or communications agency that values creativity, storytelling, and community. My ultimate aspiration is to help shape the way brands connect with people through thoughtful design and authentic narrative.