When going to a job interview or starting the first day of a new job, its not all about the clothes, but they help, and the Career Closet at Southeast Missouri State University provides free professional attire for students to feel confident and career-ready.

With Southeasts 2019 Spring Career Expo coming up on March 7 at the Student Recreation Center, now is the time for students to consider this option.

Located in Kent Library Room 123, the Career Closets racks contain selections of mens and womens business and dress attire, including blazers, dresses, shoes and neckties, for interviews, career expos and employment. The Closet supports the University mission to ensure students are successful and career-ready, said Dan Presson, director of Career Services.

Not all students are able to afford the cost associated with business attire, and the Career Closet helps students get ahead without this additional financial burden, he said. Proper attire is a major aspect of professional success, and we want to make sure all Southeast students are covered.

Since its opening almost two years ago, more than 100 business attire items have been donated from the community and University faculty and staff. The Career Closet, in coordination with the Redhawk Food Pantry, also provides toiletries such as toothpaste and toothbrushes, soap, and body sprays to students who may need them.

Having a variety of items allows students to be prepared for multiple situations, including formal interviews to their first day on the job.

We recommend students select items that would be helpful in a situation that requires business attire, says Presson. When students find items they need and/or would like, they are encouraged to take and keep the items. Take what you need; need what you take.

Students needing guidance about proper business attire, whether they purchased their clothing or got it from the Career Closet, are encouraged to visit Southeasts Career Services. Additionally, Career Services can help students with cover letters and resumes, and offer services such as mock interviews for students who want to improve their professional skills.

The Career Closet and Redhawks Food Pantry are open from noon to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday.

To make a donation to the Career Closet, visit Career Services, located in Academic Hall Room 057, call (573) 651-2583 or email careerservices@semo.edu.