Dress properly for the job, business students advised at YSU event
Staff report
YOUNGSTOWN
The Williamson College of Business Administration at Youngstown State University provided students with a live showcase of professional attire.
Nearly 60 people filled the atrium Wednesday afternoon at Williamson Hall as 22 students modeled business clothing provided by Macy’s at Southern Park Mall for the “Dress for Success” event.
Co-coordinator Michelle Green, a graduate assistant in professional practice, explained that Dress for Success offers students tips on office etiquette.
“It is very important for upcoming graduates to know how to dress professionally, and not just in interviews,” Green said. “We want them to understand that business casual is different from what they consider as casual, and that dress-down Friday does not mean to wear shorts. Students struggle with what to wear, and this event really helps.”
Ten groups of models took turns stepping onto a platform and receiving feedback on their chosen outfits. In all, the event covered five styles: interview, business casual, business lunch/dinner, dress-down day and special occasion.
The school of business conducted a student-sponsored Dress for Success show last semester that yielded mildly positive results. This time, Mary Dulay, the sales manager of Macy’s, stepped in as a sponsor. Dulay’s interviewing experience in a retail environment allowed her to provide an employer’s insight.
“I interview a lot,” Dulay said. “I would get people who looked like they just rolled out of bed. There was no way I was going to hire them. I’ve done a lot of fashion shows, mostly for nonprofits,” she said. “This event is really helpful to the students. ... I would definitely do it again.”
Betty Jo Licata, dean of the Williamson College of Business Administration, and YSU business alum Ryan Pastore provided analysis on each outfit.
Pastore, who received his Master of Business Administration degree from YSU in 2004, works as the VP director of client and community relations at PNC Bank in Youngstown. The business professional offered feedback on tie length, shirt colors and even shoe styles. He also said to “suit up” whenever possible.
“Know your workplace, ask questions, and see how people dress,” Licata explained. “That’s the best way to find out what is considered acceptable.”
Dress for Success is part of a monthlong series of preparatory events at the business school. The final one, “Meet the Employers Day,” will take place Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the Williamson Hall atrium.
For information, visit http://web.ysu.edu/wcba.