An entrepreneur who less than two years ago graduated from Capital Region BOCES returned to the campus recently to share her knowledge and experience with current students.
Class of 2024 Global Fashion Studies graduate Piper Zurmuhlen is owner of Pinto Piper, an online and traveling market that specializes in new designs for upcycled clothes. She returned to campus on Dec. 9 to talk with current students about her experiences, as well as the importance of logo and label design.
“I wouldn’t be able to do what I am doing and have the opportunities I have had without going to BOCES,” Zurmuhlen said.
Global Fashion teacher Karen Kema Maxwell and Chloe Perazzeli—who taught Zurmuhlen and is now a Work-Based Learning coordinator for BOCES—praised the graduates’ southwest- and rustic-themed logo.
“When I look at her logo, I know immediately what to expect,” Maxwell said.
Perazzeli also encouraged the current students to never be satisfied and keep editing their own logo and brand designs.
Zurmuhlen, who attended BOCES from the Schenectady City School District, launched her brand as soon as she graduated and “business has been good,” she said.
She sells her clothing line on Instagram and Depop and in various pop-up market places.
The graduate said she plans to continue building her brand and selling products.
“I want to see where it will take me,” she said.