August 17, 2023

MSU Career Closet Provides Students Professional Clothing

Michigan State University Career Services Network is kicking off the new academic year by opening the doors to its new Career Closet where all University students can find attire for that upcoming interview, career fair, presentation or other need without breaking the bank or even leaving the East Lansing campus.

Whether in need of professional or business casual clothing, shoes, jewelry, purses, belts or neckties, students will find items available from the new Career Closet at Career Services Network, Suite 113 of the Student Services Building at MSU. The attire is free to borrow for up to seven days, and the Career Closet is open from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday; no appointment necessary.

Launched in partnership with the Associated Students of Michigan State University (ASMSU), which gave an initial $5,000 gift to help launch the Closet and committed to the same gift annually for three years, the Career Closet offers all MSU students access to needed professional attire. In addition to ASMSU, generous MSU alumni are also contributing funding to help ensure an adequate inventory of sizes is available and that the closet can be staffed daily. To date, $10,000 has been donated by MSU alumni. Other partners include Spartan Linen Services which is providing free laundry service, and JC Penney which is providing discounted clothing to ensure a full inventory of sizes. The JCP Okemos location is also hosting a special “Suit Up” event on Sunday, September 10, from 5-8 p.m., where students will receive special discounts on new career clothing.

“This is a unique way we and our many partners can help ensure every student can participate in career-related events and interviews and feel confident in doing so,” said Jeff Beavers, executive director for MSU Career Services Network. “With the more than 1,500 items available, the Career Closet makes it easy to create a great first 
impression.” 

Those interested in supporting the effort may donate gently used professional and business casual clothing or money to the Career Closet. Clothing donations criteria:

  • Modern professional suits and suit separates (jackets/sport coats, pants, skirts and dresses)
  • Button-up shirts and blouses
  • Business casual basics – jackets, blouses, shirts, pants
  • Basic workwear colors – grey, black, navy, brown/khaki
  • Gently used/like new dress shoes and belts
  • Recently cleaned
  • No rips, tears, missing buttons or stains
  •  Inclusive sizing, men’s, women’s, nonbinary

Donations may be dropped at the Career Services Network, Suite 113, Student Services Building, 556 E. Circle Dr., East Lansing, Mich., 48824, or by visiting givingto.msu.edu/crowdpower/professional-clothing-closet.


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