By Emily Larkin, Managing and Online Editor
Ever landed your dream interview but had nothing to wear?
Newman will partner with J.C. Penney & Co. for its Suit-Up event again this semester to bring business and business casual wear to students at a discounted price.
The event, which will be on Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m., will be at both Towne East and Towne West J.C. Penney & Co. locations.
This collaboration between area schools and J.C. Penney & Co. started last semester and was successful said Melody Head, the director of career services and point person for this project.
“The students who did it in the fall really enjoyed it, so we’re grateful that J.C. Penney & Co. is doing it again.”
Head said approximately 50 Newman students attended the event last semester and she expects similar numbers on Sunday.
Junior and current career services intern Martina Viale went to the Suit-Up event last semester. Viale said she loved the personal touch that was brought to the event.
“They closed the store and opened it just for college students and their families,” she said. “They did a good job trying to really take care of every single customer. That individual attention was important.”
Along with Newman, the event will be offered for Wichita State and Friends students.
Sophomore and previous attendee Sara Zogleman said the event has helped her dress for success at an affordable price.
“The items you can get on sale are endless,” Zogleman said. “Without Newman’s help, many of us would not be properly dressed for an interview, so thank you for this opportunity.”
Head said this was part of the intention for the collaboration, since dress is a large part of the job process.
“Dress is important for confidence in going into interviews and to make a good first impression.”
Head said when attending the event, students have to go through a particular entrance at J.C. Penney & Co. For the west one, students need to go through the salon entrance. At the east J.C. Penney & Co., students should go through the east door.
Students said last semester they received up to a 40 percent discount off of some items. Some students said they bought a shirt for $6, a romper for $10 and pair of pants for $17.
Students can stop by the Sephora inside J.C. Penney & Co. for a free mini makeover and a sample and the J.C. Penney & Co. Salon for a free hair consultation. Professional headshots will be offered at the Portrait Studio, starting at $29.99.
Head said this event is more than just finding clothes.
“It’s a party. It’s a true party.”
PHOTO: JCPENNEY IS OFFERING deals on professional attire, including suits and dresses, for college students entering the job market. Courtesy photo, Student Support Services
