By Jillian McIntosh / Jambar Contributor
Youngstown State University will host the eighth annual Suit Up event from 12-3 p.m. March 14 with JCPenney at the Southern Park Mall in Boardman.
Students, faculty and staff can come and show their YSU ID for up to 30% off select professional attire.
Christina O’Connell, executive director of the Center for Career Management at Williamson College of Business Administration, said dressing professionally helps students transition into the business world.
“We always say in business, ‘We want you to go from a student to a professional by the time that you graduate,’” O’Connell said.
During the event, O’Connell said signs inside JCPenney will direct YSU visitors to a table on the first floor.
“They’ll write down your measurements on a sheet of paper, so you know exactly what you’re looking for,” O’Connell said. “I’ve seen students walk out with a full suit for $100-$150. They’re able to get it instead of paying $400.”
According to O’Connell, between 150-175 students take advantage of the event each semester. Additionally, students who miss the event opportunity can visit the Career Closet, run by the Office of the Dean of Students, to find professional attire.
Emily Loudon, assistant dean of Student Advocacy, Support & Wellbeing, said offering such opportunities for students is important.
“We want to make sure that students are dressed for success. Students are welcome to utilize that as much as they need. They are able to take and not return,” Loudon said.
The closet is located on the third floor of DeBartolo Hall. Students can access it on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“We do a lot of switching out for seasons. It’s cold, so we’re making sure that the summer stuff is boxed up and ready,” Loudon said.
Donation bins are located outside of the closet. Students, staff and faculty can coordinate a drop-off with the Dean of Students at dos.ysu.edu.