Beyond the Career Closet: Visit the Wardrobe

Everybody talks about the fact that Swarthmore College is a cashless campus. However, there are a few resources that we often overlook. For the things that are not available on campus, Career Services takes the extra step to make them accessible to students.

From hosting career fairs on campus, taking students to networking and professional events like Tri-co on the Hill, and providing summer funding to fuel students’ career trajectories, to running the Career Closet where students can borrow formal attire for interviews, meetings, and other professional appearances. Swarthmore’s Career Services is constantly thinking about how to best support Swarthmore students.

In addition to all the above, the office has now taken it to another level by offering trips to The Wardrobe, a nonprofit resale store in Lansdowne that provides free professional attire to people in need, supported by clothing sales and generous donations.

On a recent trip, which I had the chance to join, I was amazed by the experience. Walking through the racks, I found some of the most amazing professional outfits. Pieces I can confidently wear to interviews, internships, and networking events. And the best part? Each student gets to leave with an assortment of professional clothing items completely free of charge.

I do not want to gate-keep. So, hurry and sign up for one of our  upcoming trips to The Wardrobe. The next visit will be happening on September 26th, followed by another during Fall Break that will be open to FLI students, and another on October 24th, 2025 for the LGBTQ+ student group. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to build your professional wardrobe at no cost. Signups for all trips are now open on Handshake. Be sure to secure your spot!

By Happy Hadia Ingabire
Happy Hadia Ingabire Career Fellow