Alonso appreciates opportunity to attend NRF Foundation Student Program

29 Mar 2024     By Kelcey Buck

Thanks to a Bright Futures Scholarship from the National Retail Federation (NRF) Foundation, University of Nebraska-Lincoln senior Zaira Alonso was one of several students from across the country who attended NRF 2024: Retail’s Big Show and NRF Foundation Student Program in January in New York City. 

For Alonso, a Fairbury, Nebraska, native who is majoring in merchandising, it was an unforgettable experience. 

“My experience in New York was amazing,” Alonso said. “I met with students from different schools and we walked around Times Square, had dinner at Little Spain, and talked about our next academic/career goals. It was amazing to hear everyone’s stories and experiences within the retail/fashion industry. I learned a lot about the retail and merchandising industry, such as the challenges the retail industry faces, successful merchandising techniques and how to enter the retail industry.” 

As part of the NRF Foundation Student Program, Alonso and other undergraduate and graduate students from around the country heard from and engaged with retail executives from a variety of settings and backgrounds as they shared their stories, insights and what they learned in their careers. 

“I will be able to use the knowledge I gained from the conference for my upcoming projects, discussions, and case studies,” Alonso said. “The conference related to my career goals by networking with retail industry leaders and gaining key insights before I launch my own fashion company.” 

The event helped Alonso gain experience and networking that will benefit her as she pursues her childhood dream. 

“My enthusiasm for the fashion industry began when I could hold a pencil/crayon properly,” Alonso said. “At a young age, I would be designing women’s dresses and coloring anything related to fashion. However, it wasn’t until high school that I decided to pursue my dream of becoming an entrepreneur and owning my own fashion company. After learning about UNL’s fashion program, I knew that my dream could continue here.”