Stanford University student – Whitney

Located between San Francisco and San Jose in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford University is recognized as one of the world’s leading research and teaching institutions.

Leland and Jane Stanford founded the University to “promote the public welfare by exercising an influence on behalf of humanity and civilization.” Stanford opened its doors in 1891, and more than a century later, it remains dedicated to finding solutions to the great challenges of the day and to preparing our students for leadership in today’s complex world.

For Whitney Ford, falling into the glamorous worlds of fashion or art would be a natural fit. While most Asian mothers push their offspring into traditional fields like medicine, law or finance, Whitney’s mother, Charlotte Ford, who is deeply entrenched in the art and fashion community, was tapped personally by Anna Wintour to head the committee for the prestigious Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum which paid tribute to Alexander McQueen’s body of work this Spring. Asiance had the privilege to meet the powerhouse duo this Spring at the McQueen’s Met afterparty at Kenmare and gained some insight into what the future holds for Whitney.

Meet current Stanford student, Whitney Ford!

ASIANCE: Why did you choose the school you are currently studying?

Whitney: I’ve always wanted to go to Stanford since I was a little girl. My family and I visited the school when I was very young, and I immediately fell in love with the campus and the weather. As I got older, I realized the depth and breadth of the academics combined with the happiest environment made the school perfect for me.

ASIANCE: What is your major?

Whitney: I’m currently pursuing a major in Management Science and Engineering, which is Stanford’s version of a “Business” major.

ASIANCE: How do you like living in Palo Alto, CA vs. NY?

Whitney: Palo Alto is amazing- great food, incredible weather, easy going mentality. I do miss the city though!! Luckily, San Francisco is only 30 minutes away!

ASIANCE: What is it like to have a mom who is so involved in the art and fashion world?

Whitney: I’m so lucky to have a mom who inspires my interest in arts and culture. Since I’ve never pursued such areas in school, it’s wonderful to be able to enrich my life with fashion and art (especially contemporary art) when I’m with my family.

Whitney Ford

ASIANCE: Do you want to work in fashion?

Whitney: I am one of those people who are open to exploring any and every career option in the future!

ASIANCE: What University are you attending?

Whitney: Stanford University

ASIANCE: What clubs or extracurricular activities do you enjoy? If Asian specific, why did you choose to join?

Whitney: Right now I am the social chair for my sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta. I’m also a PR representative for Rent the Runway’s college campus program. It’s great to work with such fabulous groups of girls, and get experience in both pr and a fashion company! We’re even planning a fashion show this fall!

ASIANCE: What is the hardest part of being a student?

Whitney: Choosing which classes to take and what to study! There are just too many fascinating subjects!

ASIANCE: What are you looking forward to the most about graduating?

Whitney: Honestly, I’m both terrified and desperate to graduate. After being in school since preschool a life without school is scary, exciting, and refreshing all at once.

ASIANCE: What will you be doing after you graduate?

Whitney: No clue! One of my dreams is to teach math for Teach for America, though.

ASIANCE: What will you miss about not attending school?

Whitney: Living with my best friends and learning from such talented professors.

ASIANCE: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Whitney: Graduated! And working for Teach for America or at another similar organization. And fluent in a second language!

ASIANCE: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Whitney: Another dream of mine, which I would love to see lived out in 10 years, is to work for a Consulting firm like McKinsey. Of course, I’d be back in NYC as well!

ASIANCE: Any significant accomplishments you would like to add during your time in college?

Whitney: I’d like to get a 4.0 GPA and develop a long lasting relationship with one of my professors.

ASIANCE: Looking back would you do anything differently?

Whitney: I try not to have regrets and only control what I can change!

ASIANCE: Was there anything hard about being Asian at your school?

Whitney: Stanford is an amazingly supportive, diverse, and embracing community that opens its arms equally to all cultures and races!

ASIANCE: What advice would you give to girls who are looking at colleges right now?

Whitney: Go with your gut. Don’t worry about the name or reputation. When you fall in love with a school you’ll know it’s the right place for you.