FEATURED ALUMNI - Carla CASANO

Why did you choose to study at CEFAM?

I felt so unfit for the French educational system back in High School that I was actively searching for a different school/system that would promote a different learning pattern – a learning experience allowing students to be themselves and evolve at their own pace while feeling supported and cared for. An alumni told me about CEFAM and it directly resonated with me as I always dreamed of graduating from an American business school, and as importantly, of living in NYC. I chose CEFAM for the many opportunities the school gives to its student: internships, double degrees, amazing teachers, and the whole American experience.

What is your one special memory of your time at CEFAM?

I have so many! At CEFAM I made lifelong friends with whom I have wonderful memories that I’ll carry with me forever. I guess the most special memory, professionally wise, remains the day I was accepted at Chanel in London for my first internship. CEFAM helped me secure this internship, assisting me with the ideation of a relevant resume/cover letter package and prepping me for interviews. I felt supported throughout the entire process, which meant a lot to me as an intimidated freshman student entering such a big company at such a young age.

In one word, how would you describe CEFAM?

To me CEFAM rhymes with Opportunities.

What have you done since graduating from CEFAM?

I graduated from PACE again with a Master’s degree in Customer Intelligence and Marketing Analytics and stayed in NYC, which I call home now. I worked for a couple fashion marketing agencies as a freelancer where I began to specialize in Public Relations. I re-entered the luxury industry with Gigantem, a PR and Marketing agency representing Swiss Watch brands such as Zenith (LVMH), Parmigiani Fleurier, H. Moser, Blancpain… Then, I joined Calvin Klein.

What is your current job role? And what does it involve?

As a Global Integrated PR and Marketing Senior Coordinator at Calvin Klein, I oversee global communications strategies, programming, and activations to drive demand aligned to the brand goals and business objectives. I’m responsible of coordinating and developing  external communications plans that foster consumer connections and inspire new/existing audiences via media relations, partnerships and channels. I support in building a network of relevant media and industry relations in and help facilitate ongoing media opportunities. I support the identification, ideation and implementation of communications and storytelling opportunities across all communications functions: Social Media/Community Management, Celebrity, Influence, Corporate Communications, Brand Experience, New Product Ventures, etc.  I also participate in the development of proactive global communications programs and asset packs, partnering on all incoming/outgoing media requests and opportunities across product, launches, press-days, content, and experiences. This role closely partners with full Integrated PR and Influence team and other cross functional teams – with a focus on coordinated owned/earned and paid editorial strategies, to amplify the brand’s key business priorities seasonally. Finally, I coordinate communications calendar and reporting across all media/PR activity and supports managers with all reporting around press programs based on existing/new platforms & consumer insights.

How did CEFAM help you get to where you are now?

Aside from improving my English significantly, CEFAM also gave me a taste for marketing! I learned a lot from my classes and professors. Most importantly, CEFAM gave me the opportunity to begin my career in high fashion early on. Without all these internships at Chanel and Hermes, and without CEFAM’s help to prep for these, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today.

What advice would you give to CEFAM current students preparing to graduate?

Stay focused on your objectives and have faith in your abilities and skills. CEFAM prepared you well for the professional World so don’t settle for less than you envision for yourself. Don’t let anything or anyone prevent you from pursuing your goals. I would also advise CEFAM students to be intentional and strategic when choosing their internship and to remain 100% committed while interning – all in all, take it seriously! Keep your professional network close even post-internships as these really do open incredible doors. Your internships are the foundations of your professional pathway.

Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know:

I almost dropped out of CEFAM because I was having too much of a hard time in statistics classes. If that’s your case, with any class, hold on tight, don’t give up.

What is your motto?

If you want something, don’t stop until you get it and don’t be afraid to dream big.