Student Q&A: Inside the Paris American Academy
Student Q&A: Inside the Paris American Academy
Hannah Moats is a Kent State junior studying fashion design. She recently participated in a study abroad program with the Paris American Academy.
Q: Why did you decide to participate in this program?
A: I knew I wanted to study abroad before I even graduated high school, and it’s one of the reasons why I chose Kent State. I decided to participate in this program because I have always wanted to go to Paris. Who wouldn’t want to study fashion in Paris?
Q: What is unique about this program?
A: This program is unique because of the opportunities to work backstage during Paris Fashion Week and learn couture techniques. We were in the process of making a dress using the Madame Grès pleating technique, a Balenciaga cape and a corset. We also learned many hand stitches that are used to finish the seams and to construct the garments, while also studying a few garments that used these techniques.
Q: Have you ever traveled outside of the U.S. before? If yes, where?
A: This is my second study abroad experience, and I wish I had time to do more. The first time I studied abroad was in Florence with the Freshmen in Florence program. It was so wonderful that I knew I needed to study abroad again. Before I studied abroad, I had only travelled within the U.S. and Canada.
Q: What has been most exciting/surprising so far?
A: Attending the Georges Hobeika show and working backstage at the Ziad Nakad show. It’s also my first time in Paris so everything has been exciting. The classes are a lot smaller than I was expecting, but it makes it easier to get help from the professors. I’ve had to go out of my comfort zone to make friends and meet new people, but it’s been a really positive experience.
Q: What are you most looking forward to learning?
A: I am really looking forward to learning more couture techniques and more about the design process.
Q: What would you say to a fellow student who is thinking of studying abroad?
A: If you’re thinking about studying abroad, you should definitely go for it. I know that it can be scary. I was so anxious before I left for Florence that I almost didn’t want to go, but it was one of the best things I’ve ever done. If I had enough room in my schedule, I would do all the study abroad programs!