STORY BY MARIAH MOORE
Back to school time has come again, and with it comes waves of college kids eager to start work. Finding employment is hard enough, and the Fort Hays State Career Service Center strives to help ease that strain for both current and near-graduate students. This year, along with last, the Career Service Center teamed up with JC Penney to host their annual “Suit Up” event.
The event started at 6 pm at the JC Penney located in Big Creek Crossing on Sunday, August 25. At the entrance of the store, students could check-in with freshman receiving credit towards their ‘40 days at the Fort’. Beyond that point, students were greeted with sales ranging from 25% up to 60% off various formal wear attire and accessories.
The event was geared towards allowing students to not just snag great deals on clothing, but also tips on how to boost their appearance in the workplace. Professionalism was the idea that was reinforced by all the staff and Career Service Center employees.
The Sephora outlet within the store also provided samples of their foundation, eyeshadow, and lipsticks- all in work-place appropriate colors. Sephora also provided makeup cards with application tips for work-ready wear.
Tailors and trained staff also waited on the floor to assist students, as well as help them get accurate measurements to ensure well-fitted clothing.
This event was just one of the many put on by the Career Service Center. During the fall semester, they offer various classes and opportunities for career readiness, resume building, and interview strategies. Their mission is to ensure that each Tiger is well equipped and able to build up their workplace skills and apply them both in school as well as after.
Representatives from the center all expressed how glad they were that students took advantage of these opportunities, specifically stressing the importance of freshman involvement. They were also very pleased with the turnout, stating that there were many more interested students this year than in the past.
Prizes, as well as refreshments, were also offered for those in attendance. NexTech set up a table for interested students, offering another prize drawing, as well as affordable services in the community. The Career Service Center encourages all Tigers to visit them for more information regarding career questions, exploration, and readiness. They can be located in Sheridan Hall Room 214, or reached at 785-628-4260, or at their email careers@fhsu.edu .