With four years of FIT under her belt, in addition to several internships at Conde Nast and Hearst, this writer has more than a few helpful hints and hilarious anecdotes to share with anyone who's ever considered swapping 'real college' for fashion school.

Parsons The New School For Design is New York's leading art and design educational institution. Founded in 1896, Parsons has produced outstanding artists, designers and businesspeople including Norman Rockwell, Marc Jacobs, Donna Karan and Tom Ford. Parsons campus is spread throughout the city. Pictured above is part of the facade of the David M. Schwartz Fashion Education Center of Parsons. This is where all fashion studio courses are taught. It is located in the heart of Manhattan's…