More than 100 Georgetown University seniors from low-income backgrounds recently participated in an event that educates students about dressing for the workplace and provides resources to create interview-ready outfits. Students attending the eighth annual Loft Workshop—a partnership between the Georgetown Scholars Program (GSP) and the LOFT clothing stores—received gift cards, free stylist services, and tips on building professional wardrobes on a budget, Washington Life Magazine reports.
After covering other expenses like tuition, school supplies, housing, food, health care, and transportation, low-income students often do not have the luxury of stocking a professional closet early in their careers. Participating students said the LOFT workshop gave them a confidence boost.
“I felt like I was in a fashion show every time I tried something on, but it was most gratifying to be surrounded by so many women who see you, are proud of your accomplishments, and root for your success,” said student Jazmin Pruitt.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been in an environment where all women support each other as much as this,” said student Linda Collado.
GSP supports low-income and first-generation students from summer orientation through graduation with mentorship and networking opportunities, community-building programs, financial resources, and more.
“We work with these young women every day and know the potential they have to change the world,” said Mariana Gonzalez, assistant director of GSP. “Our ladies walk away knowing that people believe in them and are cheering them on.”
How Georgetown helps low-income students thrive
Georgetown is committed to ensuring that all students have the resources and support they need to succeed. The Georgetown Scholars Program provides programmatic support to more than 650 undergraduates, and the 50-year-old Community Scholars Program prepares its multicultural cohort of first-generation college students for success with a five-week academic summer program and ongoing support. The Regents Science Scholars Program further expands opportunities for students from traditionally underserved communities pursuing studies in the sciences.