Graduate school can be a transformative experience, especially for creative professionals looking to advance in the fashion industry. For many students, the right master’s program becomes a catalyst for long-term career growth and professional clarity. That was the case for Jodi Frontino, a 2024 graduate of Kent State University’s Master of Fashion Industry Studies (MFIS) program.
Exploring the Fashion Industry Through an Interdisciplinary Lens
The MFIS degree is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the fashion industry by blending analytical skills, research methods, business knowledge, and creative problem-solving. During her time in the program, Jodi explored topics ranging from consumer behavior to industry-specific research practices, while gaining insight into how fashion operates within a global marketplace.
Turning a Personal Interest Into Meaningful Research
Jodi’s interest in fashion began well before graduate school. Growing up, she was drawn to off-price retail shopping—not just for the experience, but for the consumer behaviors behind it. This curiosity led her to focus her graduate research on off-price retail, a segment of the industry that has historically received limited scholarly attention. Through the MFIS program, she applied rigorous research methods to better understand consumer decision-making in this space.
Faculty Support and Research-Driven Learning
One of the defining aspects of Jodi’s experience in the MFIS program was the mentorship she received from faculty. She credits their guidance with helping her strengthen her research skills and apply academic theory to real-world fashion challenges. Access to faculty expertise and current industry research played a key role in her academic and professional development.
Balancing Graduate Studies With Life Outside the Classroom
Like many graduate students, Jodi faced the challenge of balancing academic responsibilities with personal life. She found success by treating her coursework like a structured workday, which helped her stay organized while still making time for friends and other commitments. This approach is one that many graduate students adopt as they navigate advanced study alongside everyday responsibilities.
Building Connections That Last Beyond Graduation
Looking back, Jodi says some of her most meaningful memories from the MFIS program came from the relationships she built with classmates and faculty. These connections, paired with the program’s rigorous curriculum, helped prepare her for the next stage of her career. Today, she applies her education as an assistant buyer at Burlington Stores, Inc.—a role she directly attributes to the skills and experiences gained during her graduate studies.
Why the Fashion Industry Studies MFIS Matters
Kent State’s Master of Fashion Industry Studies is an interdisciplinary graduate degree that prepares creative professionals to address real-world challenges in the fashion sector. The program blends critical, analytical, and communication skills with industry insights, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Graduates are well positioned for careers across the fashion industry — from buying and merchandising to brand development, market research, and beyond.
Whether you’re passionate about consumer behavior, interested in sustainable practices, or looking to lead in a global fashion context, the MFIS curriculum provides a foundation that supports both career growth and deeper industry understanding.
Ready to take the next step in your fashion career?
Explore the fully online Master of Fashion Industry Studies (MFIS) program at Kent State Online.
