I Quit My Unpaid Internship And Got Blacklisted From The Fashion Industry.

Fashion Internships have been an integral part of the industry for decades. We’re often told that without them, we won’t even so much as get response when applying for our first full time job. So as a student, what do you do when something doesn’t feel right or you’re not being treated as you should during your internship? Lea Bernetic’s internship experience sadly isn’t the only one of its kind. Now a successful Head of Marketing and Online Educator, she tells us her story…

Deciding to leave an internship opportunity that I once considered my “dream” role, wasn’t an easy decision…

Looking back, I will be forever grateful for the experience I had during my university years. I studied Fashion Management & Marketing at University for the Creative Arts in the UK, a very hands on course with fantastic lecturers, who really helped me get the most out of my time there. My course leader encouraged me to start interning in my first year, which then set the foundation for my work in the fashion industry. I was fortunate enough to have several internships working across PR & marketing at Gap Inc., LOVE Magazine, GQ, Moschino and Alberta Ferretti. These were all wonderful experiences that I’ll cherish forever. 

“I was told that I’m a silly girl to bring up ‘money’ on my first day, and I should be grateful for the opportunity.”

In the second year of university I secured an internship with a leading fashion brand (with an iconic household name). That internship was my biggest achievement to date – I knew it would open a lot of doors for me, so I agreed to work for free, as long as my travel and food expenses were covered. Prior to that placement I had 4 internships already under my belt, all on similar terms - Work for free, expenses covered. This new company agreed to the same.

At the time I was living outside London, so it was crucial to make sure at least my traveling costs would be paid for so I could afford to get to work. But on my first day of this new job when I asked about their reimbursement policy, they told me they actually decided they wouldn’t be covering any expenses after all. In fact, they told me I was a 'silly girl to bring up ‘money’ on my first day, and I should just be grateful for the opportunity.

That did not sit right with me. So I quit.

I felt devastated and inspired to write about my experience. The post I wrote went viral, and soon after I was contacted by that dream company’s HR department. They once again told me how unreasonable I am, and urged me to immediately remove the post.

“I didn't agree with how the company handled the situation, and that went against my values.” 

I knew what I agreed to, I knew what I was willing to sacrifice to be there, I knew asking people to work for free is illegal and I knew that by giving in, nothing would ever change. I refused to delete the post. After that incident, none of my emails to fashion brands ever received a reply. I had been “blacklisted” from the industry.

My decision to leave the unpaid internship was motivated entirely by the fact that the company handled the situation in a way that went against my values. I loved my job, but the idea of paying to work in a corporation with an annual turnover of £2.1 billion is simply not acceptable. Unfortunately, this one incident made it made it very challenging to get a job in fashion again. After that, I had a complete identity crisis, and I really struggled with the fear that I may have ruined my future career.

However, if it wasn’t for that series of events I would not be where I am today. 

I don’t think my experience is unique. Career changes, especially at such a young age can bring with them a whole lot of emotional turmoil and angst. With the help of my mentors (who I’m forever grateful to), I was able to develop and launch a successful business during my final year of school.

“If you know you’re being taken advantage of and you’re not going to gain anything from the placement, walk away.“  

I believe that when you’re in any situation that challenges your personal views, you need to be extra confident in your own ability to make the right decision. Constantly remind yourself why you made those choices. Play to your strengths and remain positive - things will eventually settle into place. In my case, my own identity crisis came to an end as soon as I started working for myself and getting my first clients. 

In the case of internships - the Fashion industry is notorious for taking advantage of ‘free labour’, with too many companies treating interns as errand girls and boys. You didn’t sign up for that, but you do it anyway because you want to fit in and make a good impression. My advice is that if you’re uncomfortable with any situation you need to speak up. If you’re unhappy or unsure, talk to others. A mentor, or a group of friends that you trust can help you make (the right) decisions.

In an internship or any role - if you know you’re being taken advantage of, walk away. Don’t let self doubt linger, let it pass. Your time is valuable, don’t waste it trying to fit in into a broken system when there are so many other avenues to explore throughout your career. Believe in yourself, actively seek for advice and inspire positive change with your actions whenever possible.

By Lea Bernetic | Edited by Emma Golley

Lea is the Head of Brand Marketing for Underpinned, you can contact her via the link below:

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