Exceptional Summer Pre-College Fashion & Design Program for High Schoolers on Columbia University Campus

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College Fashion & Design Program for High Schoolers on Columbia University Campus

The Fashion & Design Programme offers an in-depth, creatively driven introduction to the global fashion industry for students aged 15–18. The programme explores fashion as both an artistic discipline and a technical, commercial industry, combining historical context, design theory, practical craftsmanship, and emerging technologies.

Through a blend of academic study, hands-on workshops, and real-world industry exposure in New York, students gain insight into how fashion concepts are developed, produced, protected, and brought to market. The programme is ideal for students considering future study or careers in fashion design, creative industries, or related fields.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

The programme follows a project-based, university-style learning model, encouraging students to actively apply theory through creative practice. Students are supported to:

• Develop original design concepts grounded in research

• Experiment with materials, techniques, and technologies

• Reflect critically on cultural, ethical, and commercial influences

Teaching balances structured academic exploration with creative freedom, allowing students to build confidence while refining both artistic and technical skills.

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Core Academic Content

Introduction to Fashion Exploration & Design Theory

Students begin by exploring the foundations of fashion and design, focusing on:

• Core design principles and visual language

• The history of fashion trends and movements

• The relationship between culture, identity, and style

• Research methods used in fashion and design studies

This module establishes the theoretical framework for understanding fashion as an evolving creative discipline.

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Fashion History & Evolution

This module examines the historical development of fashion, covering:

• Key periods, styles, and cultural influences

• Iconic designers and transformative moments in fashion history

• How historical contexts continue to shape contemporary design

Through case studies and cultural analysis, students gain a deeper appreciation of fashion’s global and historical significance.

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The Art and Craft of Garment Construction

Students engage in hands-on workshops focused on the technical processes behind clothing production. Topics include:

• Pattern drafting and garment structure

• Sewing techniques and construction methods

• Translating design sketches into wearable pieces

This module highlights the balance between creativity and precision required in professional fashion design.

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Fashion Design Workshop

Working alongside costume and design professionals, students:

• Examine historical garments and design elements

• Create original fashion sketches

• Explore the relationship between fashion, art, and history

The workshop provides a unique opportunity to learn directly from practitioners in a collaborative studio environment.

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Fashion Technology & Materials Science

This forward-looking module explores innovation within the fashion industry, including:

• Smart textiles and wearable technology

• Sustainable and experimental materials

• Digital design tools and virtual prototyping

Students examine how advances in materials science and technology are reshaping fashion aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

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Fashion Ethics & Sustainability

Students explore the ethical responsibilities of the fashion industry, focusing on:

• Supply chain transparency and labour rights

• Environmental impact and sustainability practices

• Legal and regulatory frameworks affecting ethical fashion

Case studies of leading fashion brands encourage critical discussion around responsible design and production.

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Fashion Copyright & Intellectual Property

This module introduces the legal dimensions of fashion, examining:

• Copyright and intellectual property protection

• Ownership of designs, fabrics, and creative concepts

• Landmark legal cases within the fashion industry

Students gain practical insight into safeguarding original work and navigating legal challenges in creative industries.

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Industry Exposure & Practical Experience

Industry Visits & Creative Exploration

Students participate in visits to fashion institutions, studios, exhibitions, and creative workshops across New York, allowing them to:

• Observe professional design environments

• Understand industry workflows and creative processes

• Explore the intersection of fashion, business, and technology

A highlight includes exposure to institutions such as the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), offering insight into fashion education and industry innovation.

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Real-World Design Project

A central feature of the programme, the Real-World Design Project challenges students to:

• Develop a clothing collection inspired by historical influences or technological innovation

• Progress through conceptualisation, design exploration, and virtual prototyping

• Produce a digital fashion portfolio showcasing their creative vision

This project allows students to integrate theory, practice, and experimentation into a cohesive body of work.

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Professional Development

Students receive structured guidance on future pathways through:

• Guest talks and expert panel discussions

• Workshops on portfolio development and design presentation

• Individualised feedback and creative coaching

This component helps students understand career opportunities across fashion design, technology, sustainability, and creative leadership.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Optional preparatory tasks or reading may be provided before the programme begins. These activities are designed to support early engagement and help students make the most of studio-based learning from the outset.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Have a strong interest in fashion, design, or creative industries

• Enjoy hands-on creative work and visual exploration

• Are curious about sustainability, technology, and cultural trends

• Want early exposure to industry-informed, university-style study

No prior fashion training is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundation in fashion theory, history, and design practice

• Experience with creative, project-based learning

• A digital fashion portfolio showcasing original work

• Greater clarity about academic and career pathways in fashion and design

Where You’ll Be Staying 🏙️

Participants will stay at Barnard College, part of Columbia University, located in the heart of Manhattan.

This prestigious setting offers students an authentic Ivy League experience, surrounded by the cultural and intellectual energy of New York City. From iconic landmarks to vibrant neighbourhoods, students enjoy easy access to world-class museums, theatres, and historic sites, all just steps from their residence.

Accommodation includes modern, comfortable rooms with shared facilities, Wi-Fi access, and 24/7 on-site security. Male and female students are housed separately, ensuring a safe and well-supervised environment. The residential setting fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging collaboration, independence, and lasting friendships.

Location: Barnard College, Columbia University

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Will I Be Sharing a Bedroom? 🛏️

• All bedrooms are twin occupancy, allocated at random by the university

• Shared bathroom facilities are provided, typically at a ratio of one bathroom per four participants

• All accommodation and bathroom areas are separated by gender

Can I Stay in a Room Next to My Friend? 🛏️

We always do our best to accommodate rooming requests; however, we are unable to guarantee specific room placements.

In many cases, we can arrange neighbouring rooms if you and your friend are enrolled in the same subject and programme dates. Requests are considered on a best-effort basis and depend on availability at the time of allocation.

Can a Parent or Guardian Stay with Me? 👨‍👩‍�*

Parents or guardians are not permitted to live on-site during the programme.

Many families choose to stay privately in hotels or rented accommodation in the city. While we do not partner with accommodation providers, platforms such as Booking.com and TripAdvisor can be helpful for comparing options.

How Fluent Do I Need to Be in English? 🗣️

Our tutors are experienced in teaching undergraduate-level students from around the world and are highly supportive of participants whose first language is not English.

While students do not need to be native speakers, we recommend a minimum English proficiency level of B2 to ensure participants can fully engage with the academic content, discussions, and project-based learning throughout the programme.

This level allows students to follow lectures confidently, contribute to seminars, and benefit fully from the programme’s academic depth.

Small Class Sizes 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

Students benefit from an intimate and highly interactive learning environment, with just 7–10 students per class. This small-group setting allows tutors to provide personalised guidance, encourage active participation, and tailor discussions to each student’s interests and academic goals.

Smaller class sizes ensure every student’s voice is heard, fostering confidence, deeper understanding, and meaningful engagement throughout the programme.

UCAS Points Available �*

Strengthen your UK university application by earning 8 UCAS points through this summer programme.

Students may opt in for this opportunity during the application process, allowing them to gain official UCAS-recognised points—a valuable way to stand out in a competitive admissions landscape.

• Available as an optional add-on

• Open to students aged 14 and above at the time of the programme

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Guest Speakers from Previous Summers �*

Participants will hear from inspiring guest speakers from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds, offering insight beyond the classroom.

Suzanne Williams QPM

Former Senior Detective

An experienced hostage negotiator who has worked on some of the most high-profile and dangerous hostage situations worldwide, including negotiations in active war zones.

Jody Bragger

Ex-Military Officer & CEO of Midnight Runners

Former military officer and CEO of Midnight Runners, the world’s largest independent running community. He is also the founder of the Mogadishu Marathon, the country’s first since the outbreak of war.

Sarah Outen

Adventurer & Explorer

A British adventurer who has successfully circumnavigated the globe, overcoming extreme conditions and long periods of isolation in some of the world’s most remote environments.

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Backed by Academic Experts �*

Our programmes are shaped and validated by an Academic Advisory Panel made up of senior Fellows and Professors from world-leading universities, ensuring academic rigour, relevance, and credibility.

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A Day in the Life in New York �*

Weekdays: Career-Focused Learning & Professional Exposure

Morning: Breakfast & Preparation (07:30–09:30) ☀️

Students begin the day with breakfast, using the time to prepare for a focused schedule centred on career exploration and professional skill-building.

Late Morning: Project-Based Sessions (09:30–11:15) �*

Mornings are dedicated to project-based learning, where students work collaboratively on real-world challenges related to their chosen career field. Sessions emphasise problem-solving, teamwork, and practical application of ideas.

Midday: Lunch Break (11:15–13:15) 🍽️

A relaxed lunch break gives students time to recharge, socialise, and explore nearby cafés and eateries in New York.

Early Afternoon: Career Skills & Industry Exposure (13:15–14:15) �*

Afternoons often focus on career skills training, such as communication, leadership, and professional development. On selected days, students take part in industry visits, gaining first-hand insight into workplaces and professional environments.

Mid-Afternoon: Expert Workshops & 1:1 Support (14:30–16:45) �*

Students participate in expert-led workshops, project sessions, or receive 1:1 tutoring, allowing for personalised feedback, mentoring, and deeper engagement with their career interests.

Late Afternoon: Break (16:45–18:00) ☕

A scheduled break provides time to rest before evening activities.

Evening: Dinner (18:00–19:30) 🍽️

Students reconvene for dinner, offering time to relax, reflect on the day, and connect with peers.

Evening Programme: Social & City Experiences (19:30–21:00) �*

Evenings feature a varied programme of social, cultural, and professional activities, including guest speaker sessions, fireside chats, quiz nights, Dragons’ Den-style challenges, movie nights, and iconic New York experiences such as Times Square visits.

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Weekends: Full-Day Excursions & Iconic New York Experiences �*

Weekends are dedicated to full-day excursions, giving students the opportunity to explore New York beyond the classroom.

• Visits to iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan

• Exploring the Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO district

• Cultural sightseeing and city exploration with supervised free time

• Immersive experiences that connect career learning with real-world environments

These excursions offer a memorable change of pace while deepening students’ understanding of the city’s global influence.

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Final Days: Presentations & Celebration �*

As the programme concludes, students:

• Deliver project presentations, showcasing their ideas and professional growth

• Participate in a graduation celebration

• Enjoy a final night party, marking the end of an enriching and career-focused experience in New York

Do Participants Have Free Time? ⏰

Yes. Students have ample free time built into the programme.

• A two-hour lunch break each day to explore cafés, eateries, and picnic spots

• Additional scheduled free time for private study, sightseeing, relaxation, or socialising

If a participant wishes to schedule time away from the programme (for example, to visit family or friends), this can be arranged in advance.

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Can the Institution Accommodate Dietary Requirements? �*

Yes. All dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Breakfast and dinner are provided by experienced college catering teams who regularly serve university students and are well-versed in a wide range of dietary needs. Dietary information is shared with catering teams in advance, though students with allergies are encouraged to confirm allergens with staff at mealtimes as an additional precaution.

Please note:

• Participants do not have access to a kitchen

• Lunch is included for most programmes

• Lunch is not included for:

• Ages 16–18 in Oxford/Cambridge

• Ages 15–18 at other campuses

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What’s Included in the Programme Fees ✅

The participation fee includes:

• 13 nights’ on-campus accommodation

• Accommodation in a twin bedroom at Barnard College, part of Columbia University

• Breakfast and dinner throughout the programme

• 40 hours of project-based lessons and industry workshops delivered by subject experts

• Carefully designed study and lecture materials

• A dedicated mentor programme and access to academic support resources

• Comprehensive insurance

• Full-day and half-day excursions, previously including:

• Statue of Liberty

• Yankees Baseball Game

• Top of the Rock

• Celebratory dinner

• Graduation ceremony and certificate

• A personalised Career Development Plan created with guidance from a personal coach

Please note: Travel to and from the programme is not included in the participation fee. Further details regarding airport transfers are available separately.

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How Do I Get to the Accommodation? ✈️

Participants should arrive between 14:00 and 17:00 on the first Sunday of the programme. Our team will be on-site to welcome students, complete registration, and escort them to their accommodation. Please note that rooms may not be ready until 15:00.

Airport Transfers (New York)

If arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport, a shared, chaperoned airport transfer service is available.

• Arrival Sunday departures: 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00

• Departure Saturday transfers: 07:00 and 12:00

• Transfers can be booked after enrolment for a fee per journey

Specific travel details, including contact numbers, will be shared with participants closer to the programme start date.

Arrivals by Other Means

Participants arriving via another airport or by alternative transport will receive detailed arrival and departure instructions in their Welcome Pack, sent upon confirmation of enrolment.

Transfers to Columbia are £105 per journey

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Who Will My Tutor Be? 👩‍💼👨‍�*

Project-based sessions are led by professionals and recent graduates with relevant academic and industry experience in their subject area, ensuring teaching is practical, current, and closely aligned with real-world applications.

Industry talks and workshops are delivered by experts from some of New York and San Francisco / Silicon Valley’s most influential global companies, offering valuable insight into modern industries and career pathways.

In addition, each participant is assigned a dedicated careers coach—typically someone who has recently entered the industry. Your coach provides personalised guidance, practical advice, and mentorship on next steps, helping you navigate future education choices and prepare for the world of work.

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What Happens at the End of the Programme? �*

Lessons conclude at 3:00 pm on the final Friday, with students presenting their academic work and projects developed during the programme.

Following this, participants take part in a graduation ceremony, celebrating their achievements alongside peers and tutors. The day concludes with a gala dinner and evening celebration, offering a memorable final opportunity to reflect, connect, and celebrate friendships formed throughout the programme.

Breakfast is served between 08:00 and 09:00, and participants are required to check out of their accommodation and return room keys by 10:00. Most students depart shortly after check-out; however, programme staff remain available on-site until 15:00. Secure luggage storage can usually be arranged for participants who require it.

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What Will I Receive After the Programme? �*

All participants receive a Certificate of Participation, awarded during the graduation ceremony on the final day.

After the programme, tutors provide a written Participant Evaluation, detailing academic progress and offering personalised recommendations on how students can continue to develop their understanding and interest in the subject studied.

Participants also gain access to the alumni community, which offers exclusive benefits.

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Do You Accept Non-Residential Day Students? �*

Yes, non-residential places are available.

Day students are expected to attend all activities between 09:00 and 21:30 on weekdays and must be dropped off and collected by a designated adult approved in writing by parents or guardians.

Day students:

• May join for breakfast

• Participate in all activities and excursions

• Have dinner included

• Lunch exclusions follow the same age/location rules

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Will There Be Internet Access? �*

Yes. Wi-Fi access is provided on arrival.

Students are advised to have a small mobile data package, as programme updates and important messages are communicated digitally, especially during off-site excursions.

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Do I Need a Visa to Attend the Programme? �*

Most international travellers will require either a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).

• Visa-exempt nationalities may travel to the USA using an ESTA visa waiver

• Nationalities not eligible for ESTA must apply for a US visa

We strongly recommend applying as far in advance of the summer as possible to allow sufficient processing time.

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Do You Accept Students from All Nationalities? �*

Yes. The programme is committed to fostering global citizenship, respect, tolerance, and understanding. Students from all nationalities are welcome where legally and operationally possible.

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What Should I Bring? �*

A full packing list will be provided after enrolment. All students must bring a personal laptop to fully participate in academic sessions.

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