What I Took From Columbia University And Turned Into a Brand

I launched TAMARA during a season of reflection and reset, one that started in Italy and eventually intertwined with everything I learned during my time in New York. My Columbia years (2022–2023) were intense, filled with inspiration, and a community that shaped the way I approach business, design, and storytelling. So when the Columbia alumni magazine featured TAMARA as a holiday gift pick, it felt like a full-circle moment. 

You may be wondering: Applied Analytics? What does that have to do with silk scarves or design?  On the surface, nothing. But in practice, well... That experience taught me ways of thinking that I apply every single day while building TAMARA. 

Balancing Data and Intuition 

Columbia taught me how to think in systems: to look beyond gut instinct, to test, measure, and refine. Today, that mindset lives behind every TAMARA decision: from understanding customer behavior, to deciding which designs to bring to life (hint hint… there are some exciting new ones on the way), to growing thoughtfully without losing soul. Creativity may spark the idea, but data gives it direction. 

Storytelling with Structure 

One of the most unexpected lessons from Columbia was learning how to tell stories with clarity and intention. Whether it was presenting complex analyses or defending ideas in class, I learned that storytelling isn’t about embellishment, it’s about meaning. TAMARA’s narrative, from Como craftsmanship to modern styling, is built with that same discipline. 

New York as a Creative Catalyst 

Living in New York while studying at Columbia expanded my sense of scale. The city is relentless, diverse, and inspiring, and so is the Columbia community within it. Being surrounded by people building, researching, launching, and questioning everything pushed me to Think Bigger while staying grounded in purpose. TAMARA was born at the intersection of Italian heritage and New York ambition. 

At the end of the day, Columbia didn’t give me a brand; it sharpened the way I think. And TAMARA is simply where those lessons molded, evolved, and found their form. Proof that no experience is ever wasted, and that sometimes the threads you’re weaving only make sense once you step back and see the whole picture...  

If you're part of the Columbia community (student, alum, faculty, friend...), I'd love for you to be part of this next chapter. 

Join the mailing list for early access to new drops, events, and exclusive perks. Shop the scarves that started it all. 

Because the right accessory doesn’t just elevate an outfit... it reminds you who you are. 

(Yes, I wore our Preziosa silk scarf as a top at my Master's graduation :))