Participating in the Student of Color (SOC) Fashion Show since freshman year has been both nerve-wracking and transformative. The SOC fashion show is a campus fashion show highlighting pieces designed and modeled by students of color.
As a freshman, I attended an open practice where the board chose models, and even before I was officially selected, I felt intensely nervous. I’ve always disliked being the center of attention, and the idea of people watching me walk a runway was daunting. But I love fashion, so I pushed myself. When the show began, everything was a blur. I barely noticed the audience or the music—my only goal was to get through it. That experience taught me a lot about stepping into uncomfortable situations and pushed me to confront my stage fright.
Sophomore year was a completely different experience. I walked in an element-based line and represented the sun. I wore flowy garments and had to walk intentionally slower. I felt more confident, and I actually enjoyed being on stage. While the nerves were still there, I was able to focus on embodying the theme and connecting with the audience, which made the experience much more rewarding. Comparing the two years, I can see how much I’ve grown in confidence, presence, and my runway walk.
For me, connecting with the audience on the runway is less about doing something dramatic and more about being present. I try to lift my head, soften my expression, and let the theme of the outfit guide how I move. Making brief eye contact, even for a second, helps me feel grounded instead of overwhelmed. I also pay attention to the energy in the room, the music, the lights, the way people react, and let that guide my pace and confidence. It’s subtle, but when I’m really in it, that makes the whole experience feel more enjoyable and connected.
Participating in the SOC Fashion Show taught me that growth often comes from facing discomfort and embracing new challenges. I now approach new experiences with intention and excitement rather than fear, and I’m genuinely excited to model in upcoming shows.
