The Case Study Interview with 2025 FSF Scholar Carter Hinds highlights the concept behind his Neiman Marcus Digital Boutique case study. Carter is a junior fashion merchandising major at Virginia Commonwealth University and a 2026 Future Forward Scholar, FSF’s multi-year scholarship program that supports select sophomore Scholarship recipients for the remaining years of their college education.
His 2025 case study concept explores how luxury technologies can create a more personalized client experience at Neiman Marcus, supported by research drawn from VCU’s fashion databases, industry reporting, and a wide review of emerging AI tools. He also tracked current market trends, including Saks Global’s adoption of AI to support online personalization. This work strengthened his belief that data privacy and intentional digital development will guide the next era of luxury retail.
Carter is pursuing a minor in mixed and immersive reality studies, which expands his understanding of virtual and augmented technologies. He encourages future scholars to begin their case studies early and to use FSF University for structure, pacing, and feedback. He also supported several classmates throughout the process and saw how collaboration encouraged stronger, more focused work. Carter credits FSF with giving him a clearer sense of access within the industry and deepening his confidence.
