An Announcement

Greetings dearest readers & friends!  I have some *exciting* and joyous news to share…

(Image via: http://vintageborn.tumblr.com/image/77389555008)

As many of you may know, I have spent the past year, since graduating from high school, onsite at the Genesee Country Village & Museum interning with a nationally-recognized period seamstress, our local treasure, and, best of all, my mentor.  There, from day one, it has been the utmost pleasure and privilege of mine to work with such talented people – the costume shop ladies, all of the staff and interpreters – learning and gaining immense appreciation for a collective past.  I am eternally grateful.  Without doubt, the breadth and depth of the experiences have been incredible, and have truly modeled me into a better student, seamstress and professional.

Now, to the question of much thought and debate over the past few months: simply, what's next?

At the beginning of the month, I was honored and blessed with both academic AND artistic acceptance into Point Park University’s prestigious conservatory.  However, believing Point Park, for sure, to be out of my reach financially, I decided on a plan B - to remain at the museum that has become so near and dear to my heart for another season while continuing my education at our local community college.

Until, just recently when I received a generous stipend offer along with a costume apprenticeship at the conservatory, which I view as the path to my future in costume design and construction.  My heart fluttered as the possibility of attending Point Park became real again.  However, already set on continuing to work at the museum, I felt conflicted between the two great opportunities.  So, I wrote just about the most persuasive proposal of my writing career to defer admission until the spring semester...

(Image via: https://emilystroia.wordpress.com/2012/07/10/the-road-less-traveled/)

And, as I just found out, the answer is YES!  My request for a semester deferment was granted, which will make it possible to continue my stay at the museum that I adore as a historical interpreter for the entire upcoming season.  Not only will this allow for so many more opportunities to teach and connect with the public, but I am so, so looking forward to continued learning and practice with historical dressmaking techniques as I experiment with and create 1820s, 1830s and 1850s wardrobes, underpinnings and all, for village interpretation.  (As well as document the process here, on this blog, and in a new portfolio to present to the conservatory!)

Then, in the spring, I will be relocating to Pittsburg, PA to join the conservatory program – it’s a win, win, win situation as now I will not have to miss out on any of the life-changing opportunities offered at both institutions!  I honestly couldn't be happier, and there has been much singing, dancing and rejoicing around the house.

Finally, I'll end by stating that it is my firm believe that continuing to strengthen the lasting relationships I have made at the museum over the course of another season will allow me to bring strengthened skills, appreciation and an even greater, invigorated passion for costumes and living history to college and beyond.

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Thank you, everyone, for your continued support!

Most sincerely,

Anneliese :)