This year, the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) celebrated Alumni Weekend with a full itinerary. From campus tours and workshops to social gatherings and industry fireside chats, the FIT Alumni organizers offered something for everyone. Amidst all the activities, alumni could also shop with over 20 vendors—all fellow FIT graduates—featuring jewelry, fashion accessories, ready-to-wear, and more. Among the vendors was Cealle Creative—we were honored to showcase our brand to a new audience, and the highlight was reconnecting with some of the friends I made during last month’s study abroad program.

Despite everything happening in my world, I was able to stay present. Even in the midst of life “life-ing,” I showed up bright-eyed and ready. As I often say, having a business is like having a child: whether you’re sad, tired, or hungry, it still needs to be fed, nurtured, and given your full attention.

FIT closed out the events with a beautifully organized Alumni Brunch, where I connected with new faces and fellow alumni. One of the most memorable moments was meeting Judy, a 97-year-old woman who was one of the original 100 students selected to attend FIT in 1944. Judy shared stories from her time at FIT with such depth that you could hear a pin drop in the room. Though financial hardship prevented her from completing her studies, her daughter recently submitted some of her old sketches to FIT’s archives, and Judy was invited to speak. I admired her instantly and felt drawn to speak with her afterward.

Meeting Judy was like encountering a fairy prophet. It’s not often you get to chat with someone who’s been on this earth for nearly a century, so I was intentional with my questions. When I asked what advice she’d give for a happy, long life, her response nearly knocked me over—it felt like she could see right through me. Here were Judy’s tips:

Be Truthful: Be honest with yourself and others.

Kindness: Always choose kindness. Smile whenever someone crosses your path.

Don’t Stress: As she put it, if you have a sick family member who is dying, know there is nothing you can do to change it. Instead, “put it on a shelf” by finding something else you enjoy.

Listen Fully: Listen without interrupting or jumping in with your own points. If you don’t have the opportunity to respond, save it for another time.

Each of Judy’s tips resonates with me. Whether it’s one or all of them, remember—we all have choices. I choose to be truthful, kind, manage my stress, and listen fully. Which one speaks to you?