How the UA Dresses for Success

April 6, 2015

What's a few days of wearing a tie or a skirt if it helps to set up the rest of your life?

University of Arizona students who participated in the recent Spring Career Days on campus didn't need to be persuaded. With more than 200 companies descending on campus for two days to recruit for internships and full-time positions, there was ample incentive. In fact, a "Dress for Success" fashion show put on by Dillard's drew more than 250 students — and even had a waiting list.

It was all part of a concerted effort by the Office of Career Services to position UA students for their next step.

"It's critically important for us to connect our students with (career) opportunities," said Eileen McGarry, executive director of career services and student engagement at the UA. 

Half of the employers, McGarry said, were from Arizona. But 26 other states also were represented.

"They're looking for broad-based skills, for communication skills and analytical skills," McGarry said, and an employer summit discussed those very things.

McGarry had three pointers for students who wanted to ace the test: Dress professionally, have a 30-second introduction at the ready, and show that you've done your homework on a prospective employer.

Share