Conversations with Soyeong Cho

Today we’d like to introduce you to Soyeong Cho.

Hi Soyeong, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Through my grandmother, who was a fashion designer, I have always had a keen interest in fashion and dreamed of pursuing a career related to it. When I graduated from high school in Korea, I decided that in order to pursue my dream, I needed to gain diverse experiences in a broader context. This led me to the decision to go to the United States. Although it might be relatable to many international students, at that time, I felt that pursuing university directly would be challenging due to language barriers. Hence, I opted to first attend a high school in the United States.

During my high school life in the U.S., I was inspired by the freedom of style and fashion among people. I realized that I wanted to delve deeper into the world of fashion, and it was during this time that I learned about the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The collaborative and practical curriculum at SCAD convinced me that even with a specific major, I could gain various experiences. Immersed in the world of fashion advertisements, I chose to major in Fashion Marketing at SCAD.

While studying Fashion Marketing at SCAD, I discovered many options within this field. Taking classes in business, social media, campaigns, product development, and retail, I not only learned marketing techniques but also had the opportunity to align my skills with the overall industry trends. My initial notion of merely studying marketing was proven wrong. Planning campaigns, collaborating with friends from various majors, and conducting photo shoots became pivotal moments that deepened my passion for Fashion Marketing.

I cannot omit to mention SCADPro. During my senior year, I applied to SCADPro and, after an interview, secured the opportunity to collaborate with Movado, a jewelry and watch brand. Collaborating with students from diverse majors on a project outside the realm of Fashion Marketing provided a valuable experience. Through meetings and presentations with brand managers, I gained firsthand insight into how the industry operates. With the support of professors and the enthusiasm of students, it was not just a satisfying outcome but also a time of significant personal growth. Witnessing the convergence of different working styles and ideas into a cohesive project was immensely enjoyable.

After all those experiences, I realized my desire to broaden my knowledge in Fashion Marketing and general marketing-related professions. As I accumulate experiences in different companies, I am working towards realizing my dream of becoming a marketer/fashion marketer and striving for even greater aspirations.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Facing entirely different choices for the future brought me immense anxiety and contemplation. Ironically, studying in the United States, while offering numerous options, became a burden for me. Watching friends with firm dreams or exceptional talents, I sometimes felt discouraged and found myself comparing. However, I made an effort to remember that, like them, it’s crucial to discover what truly brings me joy and to develop the talents I possess rather than seeking what I lack. Focusing on the professor’s words at Critique, occasionally asking friends directly, and sometimes questioning myself about what brings fulfillment in the work process became moments where I could find enjoyment.

One valuable approach was to concentrate on improving the gifts I already had rather than searching for what I lacked. I had moments of questioning, listening to the advice of professors at Critique, asking friends directly, and reflecting on what brought me the most satisfaction during the process of work. Thanks to the support of everyone around me, I never felt alone during moments of disappointment, and I could bravely overcome every challenge.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am currently employed as an Inside Sales Representative at United Rentals, the world’s largest equipment rental company. This position has been a stroke of luck for me, allowing me to broaden my experience from the realm of fashion marketing to the broader field of marketing. Having studied Fashion Marketing at SCAD, I felt confident in applying my knowledge of the retail sector to my current role. In my capacity, I primarily handle client orders and equipment inventory management.

The office where I work is situated at the Hyundai Mega Plant in Ellabell, GA, having frequent transactions with Korean companies. Leveraging my background in Korean language and marketing, I find immense satisfaction in bridging cultural and professional gaps in my work. It’s rewarding to apply the skills and insights gained from my fashion marketing studies to a different industry, contributing to the success of United Rentals. I take pride in my role as a bridge between clients and our extensive inventory of equipment, ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction. This unique combination of skills sets me apart, and I am proud to contribute to the success of a global leader in equipment rental.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Talent is something inherent in everyone, but the process of discovering and developing one’s own talents can be challenging. It’s natural to face regrets and setbacks during this journey, but every choice and moment invested becomes a precious asset that eventually illuminates one’s path years later. The most crucial quality for success, in my opinion, is resilience—never giving up. Success is not about always choosing the easy or straightforward path; sometimes, it involves navigating complex and challenging routes. What may seem like the “wrong” choice at the time can turn out to be a pivotal step in personal and professional growth. If one persists and doesn’t give up, the results are bound to be beautiful.

One personal experience that underscores this belief occurred when I decided to get a job in a different industry from fashion, even though it was still marketing. It was a bold move, and at times, doubts crept in. However, by embracing the challenges and remaining steadfast, I found that my diverse background and skills became an asset in an unexpected industry. The ability to adapt and persevere through this transition strengthened my conviction that success often lies beyond the beaten path.

Furthermore, focusing on oneself is paramount. The perilous trap of comparing oneself to others can be detrimental. We all possess unique talents, backgrounds, and interests. It’s crucial not to forget that being different in one’s own way is what makes an individual special. Choosing to concentrate on personal growth rather than constantly measuring oneself against others is the key to unlocking true potential and achieving long-lasting success. In my journey, I’ve learned that true fulfillment comes from understanding and embracing my individuality, allowing me to contribute my unique perspective and skills to every endeavor.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/amysoyeongcho/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soyeong-cho/