During the pandemic when almost everyone is watching costs, YSU teamed up with a retail store to help students save money while suiting up for the job market.

JCPenny in the Eastwood Mall and YSU teamed up to help students suit up for success by making a great first impression when going for a job interview or networking. The store offers JF for a tailored fit, Stafford and other professional attire.

JCPenny Niles General Manager Dave Lockhart said, "A first impression is very important. A lot of times people make decisions within the first 15 minutes of meeting you, so being dressed nicely and professionally can go a long ways to getting in that door."

YSU staff, alumni, and JCPenny associates were on hand to offer students advise on business professional attire.

Amy Conrad, Coordinator for Center of Career Management Williamson College of Business, said "With the JCP suit up event, they have the opportunity to start building their wardrobe pretty early, so by the time they are graduating they have a wardrobe ready to go, they're ready for interviews and they're ready to go into the office atmosphere."

YSU Students with a valid student ID saved 30% during the event. They also received a coupon for 20% off good until the end of October.

Haley Drennen a junior at YSU majoring in accounting said, "Looking professional is important. With the pandemic we're in everyone's on a tight budget, so this will definitely help."

Dana a Senior majoring in Exercise Science at YSU appreciates the JCPenny portrait studio offering headshot packages starting as low as 30 dollars for YSU students through December 31st.

Dana said, "When your trying to connect with professionals the look is everything. Sometimes all they have to see is our LinkedIn profile, that picture, that resume."

Sephora gave out free product samples and an Urban Decay eye pallet, plus has additional in store offers.

Sephora Manager Lauren McKenzie, at the NIles store, said "We have a coupon off for 15% off from our Sephora collection. We have products for eye, cheek, everything you need for a perfect look for your first day of work."

This is the third year for the JCPenny, YSU partnership to help students suit up for success.

YSU sends out e mails to students, uses professors to spread the word, and social media to get the message to students about programs like this one that can help students stand out.