Student spotlight: Jade Smith, Fashion Design B.A.

A third-year fashion design major at IU raised in Indianapolis, Jade Smith is driven to create by his life experiences and a desire to uplift marginalized communities. As a first-generation student, Jade speaks candidly about the challenges of navigating college and finding his place at the Eskenazi School. His brand-in-progress, Trapping Isn’t Safe, aims to redefine possibilities for low-income minority communities, offering hope beyond stereotypes. Eskenazi School communications and marketing intern Forough Sehat, a master's student in the IU O'Neill School's arts administration program, spoke with Jade about his evolution from graphic design student to passionate advocate for change through fashion. 

Forough: Hi Jade! Why don’t you start by telling us a little about yourself, how you got interested in art, and what brought you here to IU? 

Jade: Sure, I'm Jade Smith, a fashion design major in my third year, and I am from Indianapolis. I've been interested in art for as long as I can remember. When I was younger, I thought art was drawing and painting. But I was always interested in creative things—whether it was music, fashion, or even watching anime—so I was always deeply interested in the art world without realizing it. Art has always been something I'm naturally drawn to. 

Forough: How did that interest lead you to fashion design here at IU? 

Jade: Originally, I came to IU as a graphic design major. I knew I liked fashion but didn't see it as a career. But over my first two years, I started to see how clothing allows for personal expression. I noticed how clothing and accessible fashion were often at the forefront of political movements, and I realized I also wanted to make an impact with clothing. 

Forough: What was the decision-making process like when choosing this path? 

Jade: It was straightforward in a way. Some people say things "clicked," and that's how it felt for me! I've always been the kind of person who tries to follow my heart, even if it's not the "practical" choice. At one point, I realized, "I really love clothes—why not make this my career?" 

Honestly, none of this would have been possible without the Groups Scholars Program. The program supports low-income, first-generation students like me, who may not have had all the resources or guidance needed to navigate the college application process. It offers financial support, but it's more than that—it's about building a community and giving us the tools to succeed in an environment that might feel unfamiliar or intimidating.

Being a Groups Scholar means I've had access to mentorship, guidance, and financial aid that have made my education a reality. Coming from a background where college didn't always feel like a realistic option, this program has opened doors for me that I never thought possible. It's really shaped who I am as a student and a person, and I feel so grateful to be part of it. 

Forough: And how has your experience been here so far? 

Jade: My experience at IU and within the Eskenazi School has been really wonderful. My first two years were challenging, especially as a first-generation student. Navigating everything—getting ready for classes, learning to find my way—was rough without the kind of support some other students might have.

But there's a strong sense of community within Eskenazi, and I've felt a lot of support. Professors like [Senior Lecturer of Merchandising] Mary Embry have been incredibly helpful and understanding. They've really pushed me and provided guidance when I reached out. Overall, it's been a positive experience, and I think that as long as you put in the effort and communicate openly, you can have a great experience here. 

Forough: You mentioned being a first-generation student. How has that experience been, and how does your family feel about you being here at IU? 

Jade: Yes, I take a lot of pride in being a first-generation student. It's tough, and I'll never say it's easy—it's been a humbling, challenging experience. Navigating these spaces without a strong foundation or family guidance has pushed me to learn more hands-on. My family is incredibly proud, though. They have a lot to focus on back home, like paying rent and making sure everything’s stable, so I feel a responsibility to make something of myself, both for them and for our future. Seeing how hard they work keeps me motivated. I want them to know I’m working just as hard to build a brighter future, not just for me but for them and, one day, for my kids. 

Forough: Could you share more about how your life influences your design style? What inspires you?  

Jade: I take my inspiration from life itself. I have specific inspirations—like my mom, [the late American fashion designer] Virgil Abloh, and Jesus Christ—but life is my biggest influence. Just looking around, I see that there's so much happening, so many stories unfolding. I want to create for people who don't always have a space to express themselves, and that's a huge part of my purpose. 

I have a brand in the works called Trapping Isn't Safe. It's still in the design stages, but the goal is to raise awareness in low-income minority communities to show them that there are options outside the negative stereotypes and limited paths often in front of them. Too often, these communities are told they can't make it out or that crime is their only route to success. I want to be someone who can show them, "I was in your position, and I made it." I want to remind them that there's so much worth striving for—something to live for, to push for, and to create. My main inspiration is life, and I hope to spread as much love and positivity as I can through my work. 

Forough: Is there a project this semester you're particularly excited about? 

Jade: Yes, we have a denim jacket project in my fashion studio class, which I'm really looking forward to. We've been working on various projects, drafting designs, and sewing, which has been so hands-on and fulfilling. This project will let me add my own twist, which is exciting! 

Forough: You're from Indianapolis. How has the transition from Indianapolis to Bloomington been for you? 

Jade: It was definitely a change! I grew up in the inner city, surrounded by people who looked like me. Coming to a PWI [predominantly white institution] was a culture shock, but overall, it's been positive. I've met wonderful people from all over the world, and I really enjoy Bloomington! 

Forough: Do you feel represented in the university and your classes? 

Jade: I think IU is moving toward better representation. I feel seen in a lot of spaces, and each year, especially since my first year, there seems to be more progress for those who might feel different or underrepresented. 

Forough: What has your experience been with the resources available at Eskenazi and IU as a whole? 

Jade: The resources for art students here are excellent. The studios and all the equipment they provide mostly free of charge make it easy to get involved and bring creative ideas to life. I can pretty much go into a studio anytime to work on my projects, even ones I’ve started at home, and they have everything I need.  

Forough: What advice would you give to other first-generation students navigating college life? 

Jade: My biggest piece of advice is to never give up and to always remember that you belong here. There will be days when you might feel like you don't or question if this path is right for you. But it's so important to believe in yourself, take care of yourself, and be kind to yourself. Show yourself love and share that love with others. That's really my main advice: spread love, take care of yourself, and keep going. Honestly, these are more than just advice—they're goals to live by.