Part of an ongoing “Dress for Success” partnership between Fresno State and Macy’s, the retailer donated $10,000 in gift cards for students in Fresno State’s Renaissance Scholars Program to build their professional wardrobes as they step into the workforce.
A group of Renaissance Scholars visited Macy’s in Fashion Fair Mall in April to work with personal stylists during a two-hour private session before the store opened to the public. Each scholar received their own $250 gift card.
Established in 2008, the Renaissance Scholars Program is dedicated to serving Fresno State students who have experienced foster care at any point in their lives or are certified independent youth. The program currently serves 138 undergraduate students and 13 post baccalaureate students.
Among the students who participated in the private shopping experience was Kina M. Moua, a senior who worked as a social media student assistant in University Marketing and Communications and has since earned her degree in media, communications and journalism with an emphasis in advertising and public relations.
“What made this experience so special was how personal it felt. Macy’s didn’t just give us clothes, they gave us confidence and support for our next steps in life. We even had stylists, Katie and Joey, who helped us choose outfits that reflected both our personalities and our professional paths,” Moua said.
“That level of care meant a lot. It showed an understanding that everyone comes from different backgrounds, and that how we show up matters, especially in fields where creativity is our identity. I loved how seen and supported I felt.”
Through an internship at Archer & Hound Advertising, Moua was able to gain professional experience prior to earning her degree, assisting in project management and creation of marketing materials.
“It’s like the build-up for a surprise party, and in the end, we get to surprise the client with the reveal of our great work, and I’ve loved every second of it with the hands-on learning experience that’s strengthened my skills and given me a better understanding of how the creative industry operates,” Moua said. “Beyond my current role, I’ve also been actively pursuing other opportunities with start-ups, companies like Airbnb, Snapchat, Electronic Arts, and creative places that align with my passion for brand strategy and digital engagement to let me keep growing.”
As she continues to grow professionally, Moua aims to work in digital communications and brand strategy for organizations that mix creativity with purpose in the entertainment, tech, beauty and lifestyle industries. She said, “I want to be a part of campaigns that allow people to feel seen, inspired, and connected in the most meaningful way.”
The Renaissance Scholars Program plans to return to Macy’s with more students in June for another private shopping experience.
“[Renaissance Scholars] has been a huge part of my college journey. As someone who grew up without parental support and as the first in my family to attend college, I thought I understood what it meant to face challenges because life had already thrown a lot. But college came with a different kind of chaos,” Moua said.
“There were moments I wasn’t sure if I could keep going with all the different and new life experiences that I kept facing, but programs like [Renaissance Scholars] made sure I didn’t have to go through it alone. They help guide me and have shown me the true definition and purpose of motivation while pursuing a degree.”
For more information on how to support the Renaissance Scholars Program and other student support services with the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, contact David Hembree at 559.278.5052 or dhembree@csufresno.edu.
