Q&A: Isabella Haua ’21 is leading the world of fashion with passion

What initially attracted you to UTSA?

IH: I was born and raised in San Antonio, so I grew up familiar with UTSA. I applied to a few other schools, but none of them truly resonated with me. UTSA felt like the most logical and comfortable choice. After my first year at the university, I knew I had made the right decision. I connected with my professors, found a welcoming community and made lasting friendships. UTSA provided everything I needed to succeed academically, professionally and personally.

Were you involved in any student organizations, internships, or experiential learning opportunities while at UTSA?

IH: Yes, I joined Zeta Tau Alpha, a sorority which helped me build strong connections and lifelong friendships, while providing opportunities to give back to the community through service projects. I also participated in the UTSA Study Abroad program in 2020, where I studied in London from January to March. This experience allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture while taking courses that aligned with my passion for fashion.

Can you tell us more about the study abroad experience?

IH: I wanted to find a program that combined my interests in fashion and business. London was my top choice because of its vibrant fashion scene. Although UTSA doesn't offer a dedicated fashion program, their study abroad partnerships allowed me to take fashion-focused courses through an organization called the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS). I took classes that counted as extra credit toward my degree, including Fashion Marketing and Retail, Psychology of Fashion and Luxury Goods, Ethical Fashion and Sustainability and Organizational Behavior. I also made many lasting friendships. Even though the pandemic cut our time short and forced me to return home earlier than planned, those two months really opened my eyes to new possibilities, and I knew I wanted to return to London for a longer period someday.

What sparked your interest in fashion?

IH: Fashion has been a constant in my life since I was a little girl. I remember watching "Project Runway" and recreating the design challenges at home with whatever materials I could find. I was also drawn to business and entrepreneurship. As a kid, I would make crafts to sell and find ways to turn hobbies into small ventures. Following my return from London in March of 2020, I created my own small business called The Craft Bar SA, where I continue to make and sell crafts, apparel and stationery.

How did your experience at UTSA prepare you for pursuing a master's degree in London?

IH: UTSA's study abroad program gave me the confidence to take a giant leap. Moving abroad, even for a short-term program, was a huge step out of my comfort zone, and UTSA made that transition easier. When I graduated in December 2021, I immediately started researching graduate programs. A friend from my study abroad experience recommended a school in London called Condé Nast College of Fashion & Design, and seeing her success there inspired me to apply. After receiving my acceptance, I moved to London in September 2022, and the experience was everything I had hoped for and more.

Tell us about your master's program and your London Fashion Week experience.

IH: My master's degree in fashion entrepreneurship focused on combining creativity and business strategy. For my final project, I developed a sustainable denim brand from the ground up. This involved everything from creating a name, mission, and vision to designing a two-year financial plan. Since I'm not a designer, I collaborated with a friend to create the technical aspects like patterns and mockups. The project was presented as part of an exhibition during London Fashion Week, which was a surreal experience. Since I was a kid, I dreamed of being part of London Fashion Week, and seeing that dream come true was incredible.

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