Mega Doctor News
The cost of a college education can be a major financial burden for students, impacting various aspects of their lives. They may need to take on more debt, work longer hours or even be forced to put their higher education dreams on hold until they have the funding necessary to pursue a degree or professional certificate.
For less fortunate individuals who are able to complete their studies, they may be left with limited funds to afford the professional attire required to enter the workforce.
In 2023, 42% of job postings in the United States referenced a business casual dress code, according to Gallup, while more U.S. companies have amended their dress code policies to require employees to dress more professionally.
Career closets on college campuses help ensure that their students are dressed for success. Stocked with donated business attire that students and graduates can keep at no cost, they help alleviate the financial burden of clothes shopping and allow them to participate in career-related activities like networking events, internships, job shadowing and job interviews, as well as at work, once hired.
In the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas College’s (STC) Threads Career Closet is making a difference in the lives of its students by providing professional attire to those seeking employment or entering the workforce after graduationby elevating their presentation and helping them make a great first impression.
As part of its commitment to the communities it proudly serves, South Texas Health System is partnering with theSTC Threads Career Closet to host a professional clothing drive to give staff and community members an opportunity to donate new or gently used business attire like suits, blazers, dress shirts, blouses and skirts for the closet.
“Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a new hire, you may remember the financial constraints you faced immediately after graduation that made it difficult to buy necessary professional clothing for interviews, presentations and job fairs,” says Tom Castaneda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “By contributing your gently used professional clothing to this professional clothing donation drive, you can help bridge that gap and ensure that local students can present themselves professionally while increasing their chances of career success. This is your chance to have an influence on the professional lives of our future leaders!”
Taking place now through Wednesday, May 21, you’re invited to drop off gently used or new professional clothing at the following locations:
• Administration Office, STHS McAllen, 301 W. Expressway 83, McAllen
• Administration Office, STHS Heart, 1900 S. D St., McAllen
• Administration Office, STHS Edinburg, 1102 W. Trenton Rd., Edinburg
• Administration Office, STHS Behavioral, 2102 W. Trenton Rd., Edinburg
• Lobby, STHS Regional Operations Center, 1400 W. Trenton Rd., Edinburg
Specific clothing needed includes:
• Professional suits, jackets & blazers
• Slacks/pants for men & women
• Skirts & dresses
• Dress shirts for men & women (no logos/words)
• Belts & ties
All clothing must be in good condition and ‘ready to wear.’ Torn, stained and faded clothing will not be accepted.
For more information, contact the STHS Marketing Department at 956-388-2020 or via email at STHSMarketing@uhsinc.com.
