With smiling models strutting the Rinker Green runway Wednesday, PBA’s Career Development office launched Career Closet, a unique resource to help job-seeking students dress to impress.
Career Development helps students explore interests, sharpen employment strategies and obtain top internships and jobs. In recent months, the Career Development team noticed a need in the attire of some students attending career opportunities and job fairs.
“Students just don’t know about employer expectations when preparing for the future,” said Director of Career Development Dr. Kimberly Ladd. “We want to help PBA students present themselves the best they can to take hold of these opportunities.”
Building upon an idea Ladd had several years ago, Career Development student worker Ashlyn DeMarois helped bring Career Closet into reality. Students now can borrow appropriate clothing and accessories for job interviews, career fairs or class presentations.
As a junior marketing major and female entrepreneur, DeMarois understands the difficulty in finding affordable and trendy office wear. She has used her own experience and love for fashion to serve her fellow PBA students, adding another dimension to her role as a Career Peer. Career Peers are trained and certified student leaders in the Office of Career Development who help students with mock interviews, resumes and other job-seeking needs.
DeMarois joined six other student models in the fashion show Wednesday, advertising Career Closet and demonstrating the difference between “business casual” and “business professional.”
“The experience was cool to work with Career Peers and be a part of something informative,” said model Dennarius Murphy, captain of the men’s cross country and track team.
DeMarois is excited about Career Closet and hopes students recognize the Career Development office as more than a place to help develop resumes. “Students don’t even need to have their major or career path chosen when they come see us,” she said. “We are here for every stage of life.”
