What's Happening?
Students at the University of Vermont's Grossman School of Business are organizing a clothing drive to collect professional attire for their peers. The initiative, led by the Grossman Student Advisory Committee, will take place on December 8, 9, 11, and
12, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Keller Room of the business school. The drive aims to gather secondhand professional clothing, which will be sold at affordable prices to students. This effort is part of a broader initiative to help students feel prepared for professional engagements such as presentations, internships, and networking events. The committee plans to hold two sales this semester, one coinciding with the Dean’s Cup case competition in January and another during the Spring Pop-Up Sale. The increased number of sales has prompted the committee to seek more donations to ensure a wide selection of attire is available.
Why It's Important?
The clothing drive is significant as it addresses the financial barriers that students may face when acquiring professional attire. By providing affordable options, the initiative supports students in presenting themselves confidently in professional settings, which is crucial for their career development. This effort not only aids individual students but also enhances the overall professional readiness of the student body. The initiative reflects a growing trend in educational institutions to support students beyond academic needs, recognizing the importance of professional presentation in career success. Additionally, the drive promotes sustainability by encouraging the reuse of clothing, aligning with broader environmental goals.
What's Next?
Following the clothing drive, the collected items will be sold during two planned sales events. The first sale will align with the Dean’s Cup case competition at the end of January, providing an opportunity for students to purchase attire in time for this significant event. The second sale will occur during the annual Spring Pop-Up Sale. The success of these sales will depend on the volume and quality of donations received. The Grossman Student Advisory Committee will likely continue to seek community support and may consider expanding the initiative if demand and participation are high.
