Tom Ford initially studied art history at New York University (NYU), though later dropped out to pursue an acting career, after discovering that he was gay, He later found interest in interior design, enrolling at Parsons the New School for Design located in New York. While a student, he took up an internship in Paris and eventually graduated with a degree in architecture. His first job was at Chloe where he worked in public relations. He then began working with designer Cathy Hardwick, who took him in despite his lack of experience in fashion.
