Amina Gala ’23

Where are you from, and where did you grow up?
I am from Egypt, but I grew up in a number of places — in Cameroon, Belgium, Qatar, and, of course, in Cairo.

What languages do you speak?
I speak French, English, Arabic, and a little Spanish.

Why did you choose Parsons Paris?
I did a summer course at Parsons Paris a few years ago and completely fell in love with the school, plus Paris is such a beautiful and inspiring city. In so many ways it just felt right.

Do you feel at home in Paris?
Paris quickly felt like home because everything is superaccessible and you can go anywhere you want very quickly by metro, so you easily become familiar with the city. Speaking French really helps, though!

How does Paris inspire you in your work?
Studying fashion design in Paris is definitely a great combination; Paris is the city of fashion and fashion opportunities. Just walking around the city, there is so much to be inspired by. Also there are always amazing fashion exhibitions happening in the city and all the internship opportunities for Fashion Week, which are great for experience and networking.

What classes have you enjoyed?
My favorite classes in my first year were definitely Integrative Studio and Seminar. I came to Parsons with very little art background, and I came out of those two classes with so much knowledge but also perspective on how making and writing can push and inspire each other in so many ways.

In the first year, it was great to experiment with different art forms and discover a certain vocabulary that I liked and could take into my fashion design practice.

So far my favorite second-year class is Design Studio because it’s where all those crazy ideas in your head become actual finished garments!

What advice would you give incoming students?
My only advice for any new students is to not doubt or pressure yourself too much. I spent so much time before coming to Parsons wondering if a fashion education was the right decision, if I would be good enough, if I was talented and creative enough, etc. You just need to trust the process and, most important, trust yourself.