Professional clothing program the right fit for students

A WELL-suited approach to helping Federation University students prepare for critical transitions into work has received a positive response.

The Styled for Success at Fed program is assisting students source professional clothing without having to open their wallets for new apparel during tough economic times.

Penny Corser-Hatten, manager of careers and employability at the university, said the service had been met with plenty of interest.

She said it had been introduced due to a recognised need for students to have professional clothing.

“The initiative builds on the original Styled for Success program developed by BGT Jobs and Training Ballarat, and we’ve been able to adapt that model to meet the specific needs of our students,” she said.

“The initiative launched in March last year at our Ballarat, Gippsland, and Melbourne campuses. Since then, the response has been overwhelming, with more than 100 items of professional clothing provided to students free of charge.”

Shoes for nursing students preparing for placement along with warm coats for Ballarat winters have been some of the practical items that have been in early demand.

Residents, charities, staff and students have donated clothing to the program.

The free and confidential service was open to all higher education and TAFE students, as well as recent graduates.

Thi Nhi Vo, a second year Master of Social Work international student, had used the clothes from the initiative for professional development training.

“Styled for Success helps ease the financial burden and boosts students’ confidence,” she said.

“Students should feel comfortable accessing the service if they need to. Not only can they save on costs, but reusing clothes makes the service environmentally friendly too.”

To donate, email [email protected]