Bowie Business Boutique’s No-Cost Professional Attire Helps Bulldogs Prepare for Career Opportunities

A well-fitting suit or professional outfit can help open doors to new opportunities.

Free professional attire is available to all students at the Bowie Business Boutique, a place where Bulldogs can browse a selection of business-appropriate clothing and choose what meets their interview, internship or career needs.

While Bowie State provides a first-class education that helps students build a solid foundation for entering the workforce, another key aspect of success is looking the part and feeling confident. Jared Moffett, executive director of Career and Experiential Education, wants all Bulldogs to be prepared for life after graduation.

"We want to help students on the road to success. Unfortunately, if someone is not dressed in the appropriate attire, they may not be taken seriously during a job interview. You only get one time to make a first impression."

The boutique operates within the Engage Center for Experiential Learning & Career Readiness and serves as one of the many valuable resources on Bowie State's campus. It's found on the third floor of the Student Center in a welcoming environment that supports undergraduate and graduate students as they prepare for life beyond the classroom through career readiness programs, experiential learning opportunities and individualized guidance that fosters professional development.

Earlier this year, the Boutique received its largest donation ever of more than 400 items of stylish clothing, thanks to the collective support of several organizations, including The Links, Incorporated and 100 Black Men of America, Inc

The Engage Center provides workshops and advice on wardrobe terms in a professional setting, helping students understand the differences between business formal, casual or smart casual. Additional resources for research to gain familiarity with clothing criteria are also provided.

"It's necessary for students to know industry-specific standards and expectations, so they can be competitive and confident when they step into any room or space."

Bowie Business Boutique is frequented by students who may not readily have business attire on campus. The Boutique helps them be ready for Professional Wednesdays, career fair events and other meet-and-greets that require professional attire. One example is the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Institute, a development program for career readiness. Five Bulldogs recently represented Bowie State at the Institute's annual four-day conference.

During the event, students interacted with representatives from national companies and government agencies to take steps towards landing internships, job opportunities and scholarships. Bulldogs in attendance included Widenerson Moise '27, a communications major and Thurgood Marshall College Fund Yard Ambassador; Blessing Tewan '28, a business information systems major; Khylil Hunter '28, a business administration major Tomisin Laniyi '27, a business management major, Efe Ahworegba '27, a computer technology major. While there, Hunter earned a $2,000 scholarship.

The Bowie Business Boutique is one of the many services and tools for students to be prepared for their career pursuits. Dr. Moffett and the team at the Engage Center for Experiential Learning & Career Readiness are bridging the gap between graduation and meaningful careers. By connecting students' academic experiences with the skills, opportunities and professional pathways they need to thrive beyond college.