The semi-annual JCPenney Suit-Up event for Florida A&M students took place from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday evening inside JCPenney at Governor’s Square Mall.
HireARattler within FAMU’s Career & Professional Development Center partnered with JCPenney to give students an opportunity to purchase discounted professional attire. The center’s goal is to invest in the success of its students and alumni.
FAMU career specialist Raven Fennell, who spearheaded the event, said that not enough students take advantage of this opportunity.
“I don’t think enough take the opportunity to take advantage of this. I know when I was a student, I didn’t really care about the event, but to be in my shoes now, I wish I would’ve,” Fennell said.
“This is a very good thing that is going on in our community. JCPenney is very big on helping in the community. With Tallahassee having several universities and some alumni within their corporate settings, they felt it was necessary to give back to those that have helped build up the company to where it’s at today,” said Anthony Hurchins, operations supervisor at JCPenney.
The university provided a shuttle if students did not have transportation. While browsing and shopping, students were also given an additional coupon to use on a later date on career wear, shoes and other accessories.
“I won a gift card, so that took a lot off my plate financially, and it helped me with looking more presentable. Not even just for the career fair but in general when I go out into the workforce,” said Junita McDaniel, a first year, business administration student.
Students from all career backgrounds came out for a chance to prepare for the Spring 2024 Career and Internship Expo happening this week. The career exposition and the FAMU JCPenney Suit-Up event are a few of the ways FAMU prepares its students for post-graduation life.
Terrell Shealy, a second year architecture student, shared why the event is important to him. “Kids who are in my situation who can’t afford these really expensive suits, but you have to be ready for those interviews, those job opportunities, and it definitely puts you on a better platform. I think they should host this more than once. The opportunities for the discounts and networking is a great opportunity for students,” Shealy said.
The Spring 2024 Career and Internship Expo is scheduled for Wednesday. The event is open to all majors and it allows students the opportunity to network and get on track for career advancement. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Lawson Center.