ABOUT D&M MAGAZINE

by Hannah Adele Brong

In the heart of Drexel University’s Fashion Industry & Merchandising program lies an innovation that has redefined what it means to combine education with impact: the Media Merchandising course, better known as the D&M Magazine. More than just a class, this student-led, professor-supported digital publication has evolved into a safe hub of creativity, leadership, and collaboration — extending its reach beyond the campus to connect with the broader Philadelphia community. Students don’t just complete assignments; they take ownership of real-world content, from editorials and written articles to podcasting and digital storytelling, contributing to a magazine that challenges professional publications in both voice, vision, and teamwork.

Group of young women and one young man sitting together in a casual setting, some making expressive gestures, smiling, and posing for the photo, with mannequins and clothing on racks in the background.

What makes D&M Magazine truly innovative is its hybrid nature; it’s a course that operates like a club, but a “club” that functions with the rigor and accountability of a credited course. It fosters a rare creative culture where leadership is not just an earned title, but an equally shared responsibility. Every student, regardless of their role, whether it’s the Editor in Chief, Art Director, Style Directors, Editors, or Social Media Manager, is strongly and positively encouraged to contribute ideas, take initiative, and push the boundaries of media. Through this distinctive structure, we’ve launched our very first podcast, collaborated with local city creatives, increased engagement across all digital platforms, and grown into a fully unified team that mirrors a real media organization.

Group of young women celebrating a graduation or achievement, holding up posters covered with colorful sticky notes, some wearing white graduation caps, in a classroom or event space.

The course not only builds portfolios but also confidence, communication skills, and a lasting sense of community. And with Drexel University operating on a consistently changing, fast-paced quarterly schedule, this ‘sense of community’ is rather uncommon.

The biggest challenge, and also our proudest success, has been establishing a welcoming, safe, and dynamic space where students feel empowered to lead, create, and be themselves unapologetically. This class has shown us that innovation isn’t just about technology or format, but about advancing a culture where students can take risks, support one another, and reimagine what student media can do with support. In a university setting where many courses conclude after the final exam or project, D&M Magazine dares to keep those doors cracked open, to one another, to the city, and to what’s next.