I’ve always heard about the perfect chaos and undeniable glamour that makes up New York Fashion Week. I knew that designers and fashion-lovers of every kind came together as one to present some of the most beautiful fashion shows of the year, and I knew how much I loved to admire the exquisite artistry that represented both old and new designers as their models strutted up and down the runway. However, what I did not know was that more time, effort, stress and sweat goes into a seven-minute show than some people go through in an entire year. My first experience as a backstage volunteer at NYFW was definitely one for the books, and one I will cherish forever.

My first day was spent responding to about 300 RSVP emails for our first shows. Throughout nine long hours, I replied to emails from reality stars and actresses whose names I knew, Vogue editors and writers for The New York Times. I opened messages from multiple celebrity stylists, bloggers whose Instagrams I often looked to for inspiration, and photographers for websites I visited frequently. While the work was tedious and a bit boring, I felt extremely accomplished to play a part in such a prestigious production. The more names I recognized, the realer it became for me. After years and years of daydreaming about it I’d acquired a position I had always wished for, and I wasn’t about to take it for granted — no matter how many emails I had to read.

Luckily, I only had to sit through one day of repetitive work staring at a computer screen before I finally started working backstage. I embraced the all-black dress code (which happens to be my personal day-to-day dress code, anyway) while completing several tasks at multiple shows. I checked in hundreds of antsy guests, assisted wth the seating of dozens of VIPs and press members, and dressed models that towered over me by at least a foot — all with the help of other volunteers who were there to gain the same experience that I was. I spoke with the models and designers backstage after the shows (there was no time to breathe before the shows, let alone speak,) gaining an understanding of how everything is able to run so smoothly in the end. I had the chance to truly network with people within the industry, and got dozens of phone numbers and emails from new friends and connections — and even some snapchats. I was right at home among inspiring people who dedicated every ounce of their time and energy to the fashion industry, and felt incredibly motivated being surrounded by such hardworking individuals. I’ve never felt so invigorated and refreshed in a professional environment, and all my nerves melted away as I engulfed myself in the rewarding responsibilities I was given.

I can truthfully say that my first experience working behind-the-scenes at fashion week was a fun one. In just a couple of days, I acquired an understanding of NYFW that I never would have had if I hadn’t taken advantage of the hands-on exposure I was offered. Steaming rack after rack of beautifully made garments to later style models and observe the unique architecture and movement as they glided down the different runways was one of the most educational experiences I’ve had to date, and made me feel so much more in tune than simply watching and commending the shows from afar. The lack of sleep, overwhelming stress and pressure was worth the feeling of gratitude I attained at the very end. If given the opportunity, I cannot express how much I recommend taking advantage of interning or volunteering — just be sure you have plenty of Starbucks to fuel you.