A runway marked the center of the Plaza of the Americas on Wednesday as students strutted down in professional attire.
More than 200 students came to the second annual Gator Career Closet Expo, which showcased tips on how to best prepare for a job interview, said Ambre Hobson, the assistant director for student success for the Care Area at the Dean of Students Office.
The Dean of Students Office put on the event that took place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the UF Career Resource Center, Bank of America and Student Government.
“Whether students are looking for an internship for the summer or for a job after they graduate in May, it’s worthwhile to always be learning and building your career skills,” Hobson said.
Two fashion shows took place during the expo. The models wore outfits such as full suits and blazers that came from the Gator Career Closet, Hobson said. The closet is a service that allows students to borrow professional clothes and accessories to wear to interviews and other career-related events.
Some other activities included elevator pitch practice at the CRC’s tent. They talked students through their brief speeches they could deliver to potential employers.
Hobson said the event was purposely held a couple of weeks before Career Showcase so students can learn what resources are available to them before they attend Career Showcase on Jan. 30 and Jan. 31.
Kylie Jessmer, a UF business administration junior, learned about the event when she was walking through the Plaza of the Americas and saw one of the fashion shows. She said she decided to stop and learn more because she knew Career Showcase was coming up at the end of the month, and she thought the expo would help her prepare for it.
“My favorite part of the event was talking to the Career Resource Center,” the 21-year-old said. “They gave me a lot of good advice about upcoming events in the business school.”
Stephanie Muench, a 23-year-old with the Dean of Students Office, helped teach students how to tie a tie. She also helped them learn to tell the difference between business casual and business professional attire.
“Students may not need all of the resources available to them, but they may be able to tell a friend that needs a suit,” Muench said. “There are resources here for everything from elevator pitches to resumes to dinner etiquette.”
Kevin Arneus, a 21-year-old senior psychology major, models some of the available clothes at the Gator Career Closet Expo event on the Plaza of the Americas on Wednesday morning.
