Rowan Newsome

Textiles, Merchandising and Interiors

Newsome found the perfect blend of creativity and business with fashion merchandising

Hometown

Gibson, Ga.

Major/Minor

Fashion Merchandising with an emphasis in Brand Management

Activities/Honors

Throughout my time at the University of Georgia, I have built a strong foundation in professional experience and academic achievement while staying actively engaged in the UGA and FACS communities. I have been recognized as a UGA Presidential Scholar in both Fall 2022 and Fall 2024 and have received the Dawgs Suit Up Scholarship as well as the Doe H. Harden Scholarship. To strengthen my business and analytical skills, I also participated in the Entrepreneurship Certificate Program. My role as Operations Manager and Key Holder at Kempt Athens — an alumni-owned local business — has allowed me to deepen my experience in retail operations, visual merchandising, sales analysis and digital marketing, contributing to the store’s continued growth and customer engagement. These experiences have shaped my professional interests and reflect my commitment to creativity, leadership and long-term growth within the fashion industry.

Why I chose my major

When I first came to UGA, I originally started as an undecided major because I wanted to explore my interests and better understand what career path truly aligned with my strengths. This allowed me to be flexible with my coursework and eventually led me to taking my first class in the Fashion Merchandising program. I immediately connected with the blend of creativity and business strategy the major offered, and I realized it was the perfect fit for my passions and long-term goals. After completing this course, I declared my major in Fashion Merchandising with an emphasis in Brand Management. Overall, choosing this major has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally while preparing me for a career in the fashion industry, something which I will be forever grateful for.

What I like most about FACS

What I like most about FACS is the supportive community that has fostered my growth. Even before I declared my major, the faculty and students made me feel welcomed and encouraged, which gave me the confidence to explore and find my place within the college. The tight-knit environment and willingness to help — from professors, advisors, and classmates alike — have made my experience at FACS truly meaningful. It is a community that celebrates your accomplishments, guides you through challenges and supports you every step of the way.

Post-graduation plans

After graduation, I plan to pursue a role in merchandise planning, where I can build on my own strengths in analysis, strategy and product development. Long term, my goal is to start my own men’s clothing business, combining my industry experience with my passion for thoughtfully curated, consumer-focused designs. Through this pursuit, I hope to foster the confidence that clothing can bring to others, helping individuals feel empowered, authentic and ready to express themselves fully, just as I have experienced though my own personal connection to fashion.