RSU's New Career Closet Gives Students Access To Business Attire

It's age-old advice: ‘Dress for the job you want.’ But it's easier said than done for many college students on a tight budget.

Thanks to a generous anonymous donation from a Claremore woman, Rogers State University is easing some of that burden.

The widow donated 50 business suits and outfits, many of them brand new with the tags still on. That's when RSU decided to launch a full-fledged Career Closet, from which students can take or borrow business attire for free.

News On 6 found sophomore Teran Houston doing some shopping there Monday.

Houston needs to suit up for some upcoming job interviews, so he stopped by the Career Closet.

"I am trying to look for a new job this summer, possibly an internship. I only have one suit and I don't want to wear that one suit over and over again. And I don't even know if my pants still fit," Houston laughed.

Professional work clothes can be pricy for many students - an extra cost on top of tuition, books and housing.

Calli Knight, coordinator of career services, explains many RSU students are "first-generation," the first in their families to attend college. They might not have access to a business wardrobe.

"Going to an interview, the way you dress might set yourself apart with the committee you're interviewing with," Knight said. "And we want to make sure RSU students aren't overlooked if they don't have that dress."

Knight pulled a donated Christian Dior women's suit and another Men's Wearhouse suit with the original $200 tags on.

She said any RSU student, even online students, can come in and choose an outfit to take home. If they don't need to keep it, they can have it dry-cleaned and return it for the next student to wear.

"For anyone that's been to college, you understand how hard it is," Houston explained. "It takes something that's stressful off your shoulders."

If you'd like to donate any gently used business clothing, shoes or accessories, email hirehillcats@rsu.edu or call the Student Affairs office at 918-343-7579.