DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The saying goes, "If you look good, you'll feel good." 

For many of the students at Millikin University, they're learning how far a first impression can go. 

Lindy Taylor, Specialist for Career Success and Professional Development, said a good outfit can take you far when landing that first interview. "It's the first thing that a potential employer sees of you!" 

Millikin, Students pick out free professional outfit

The post-graduate job search can be a nerve-wracking and stressful time, but the Student Success Center is determined to help make that search a little less intimidating.

And a new suit or dress can do just the trick.

The school held their "Dress to Impress" event in the University Commons, open to students to come shop for a free professional outfit. Over a hundred students stopped by between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to browse dresses, shoes, and suits. Tailoring and alterations were also made on site, and students walked away with a complete outfit from head to toe.

Millikin alumni came back and helped students pick out styles and colors. Caleb Jump, even added, he donates clothes frequently for current students. "We've all come up and entered the working world. And I remember what it was like to want to make a good impression...," Jump shared. 

For seniors like Helena Hashimoto, her time in college is rapidly coming to an end. She spent the afternoon hunting for a professional interview outfit. "Something that you don't really think about is professional attire, that is, until you have to have it," she said. 

Jada Williams, a junior at Millikin, shared she's finding what her professional style is going to look like.

"If you're like me and not not really good at putting things together, they'll be like, 'yeah, I can help you put an outfit together! Just tell me the occasion!'"

Taylor is committed to making work-attire accessible to her students on campus. 

"I think we take for granted that it's something that is not available to everyone..." she explained. "Maybe they're a full time student, so they don't have any extra money."

Although an outfit can't guarantee a job, it certainly can help a new graduate land the interview. 

For those interesting in donating, contact Millikin's Student Success Center.

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