Blue Jay Career Closet
Blue Jay Career Closet
Elizabethtown College is committed to ensuring that all students have regular access to attire for job interviews, student placements, meet and greets, job shadows, internships, and jobs. The Blue Jay Career Closet has been established by the Center for Community and Civic Engagement to provide our students with free, career-ready attire to wear for those who need it. The Blue Jay Career Closet is sourced from donations from within our community.
The career closet was proposed by the Student Senate class of 2022 and established in the summer of 2022.
About the Program
Our Goals:
- The closet exists to help eliminate barriers to career opportunities for Elizabethtown College students.
- The closet provides all students with access to the resources needed to be successful in their career development.
- The closet strengthens relationships between the CCCE, the Career Development Center, and other academic departments.
- The closet allows members of the campus community to help one another with their needs.
How it Works:
The Blue Jay Career Closet is accessible to undergraduate and graduate students at Elizabethtown College. Students may take items and return them or keep them for any future needs. Should you require items while the closet is closed, contact Javita Thompson.
Closet Hours:
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday
Location:
Career Development Center | Brossman Commons (BSC) 201
Contact Information:
Donate:
Please consider making a monetary donation to help us keep the closet full of items for students. We are always collecting new and gently used clothing, such as clean suits, pants, shirts, and skirts as well as accessories such as shoes, belts, ties, and bags. These garments should be able to be worn to interviews, job shadowing, internships, and jobs. All donation items can be dropped off outside the Center for Community and Civic Engagement, BSC 247.
Please contact Javita Thompson or the Center for Community and Civic Engagement with any questions.
Volunteer:
Contact the Center for Community and Civic Engagement if you would like to volunteer with the Blue Jay Career Closet.
Business Attire FAQ
Business casual attire merges the professionalism of traditional office wear with the comfort of casual clothing. This dress code emphasizes a neat, conservative look that is not overly formal but is still suitable for a professional setting. The key is to blend semi-formal pieces like blazers and dress pants with more relaxed elements such as polos or knit sweaters, aiming for an outfit that's polished without being overly stiff.
Some potential examples of business casual attire (these may not be appropriate for all business situations, but are generally accepted as being 'business casual'):
- Custom-fitted business trousers
- Casual chinos or khaki pants, along with dark wash denim that's free of rips or tears
- Knee-covering or A-line skirts that maintain modesty
- Layer-friendly sheath dresses
- Solid, striped, or subtly patterned button-up shirts and collared tops
- A variety of colored blouses for versatility
- Denim shirts without distressing
- Knit sweaters and cozy cardigans for layering
- Neutral-toned blazers and jackets for a polished look
- Classically styled coats that aren't overly formal
- Professional closed-toe footwear including loafers, dress boots, flats, and formal shoes
- Smart casual sneakers suitable for less formal days
- Accessories like scarves, belts, and suspenders to enhance outfits
- Select, understated jewelry pieces to accessorize without overwhelming (e.g., watches, simple rings, and bracelets)
In many modern workplaces, especially in creative or tech industries, sneakers are becoming an acceptable part of business casual attire. However, the sneakers should be clean, in good condition, and of a more understated design. Bright colors and athletic styles are typically less appropriate. When in doubt, opt for minimalist sneakers that complement the overall look of your outfit.
Yes, mixing prints and textures can add depth and interest to business casual attire, provided it is done subtly. Stick to one printed piece per outfit and balance it with solid colors to maintain a professional appearance. For textures, combining different materials such as a wool blazer with a silk blouse or a knit sweater with smooth chinos can create a dynamic look that's still office-appropriate. Remember, the key is cohesion and subtlety, ensuring your outfit is harmonious and not distracting.
Smart casual is a more fashion-forward version of business attire, incorporating trendy pieces and statement accessories. Business casual focuses on classic staples like khakis and button-down shirts. When unsure, lean towards business casual until you understand the company's dress code better.
Jeans may be acceptable in some offices but are not universally considered business casual. If permitted, opt for dark, unripped jeans. Adapt your choice to fit the company culture and the conservatism of your industry.
Research the company beforehand to gauge the appropriate dress level but lean towards slightly more formal than the company's everyday wear.