Career Closet Helps Build Strong Foundation for Success
Becoming the legal scholars and leaders of tomorrow requires many things: Ambition. Drive. Persistence. Resilience. And, although we might not always think of it, a professional wardrobe.
Many students enter law school without having worked in environments requiring formal dress, and their wardrobe needs often evolve throughout their academic and professional journey. University of Wisconsin Law School’s Career Closet was created to address this shortcoming, ensuring all Law students have access to professional attire to pursue their goals.
The Closet was launched by the Office of Career and Professional Development (OCPD) in response to student requests for interview attire. Initially stocked through faculty and staff donations, the collection grew steadily, with alumni and legal professionals also supporting the Closet.
“The Career Closet has become a vital and valued part of the UW Law community, symbolizing both practical support and a culture of care,” explained Lindsay Slaker, OCPD associate director. “It’s promoting sustainability while enabling students to access professional attire free of charge, easing the financial and logistical burden of building a professional wardrobe.”
A professional wardrobe boosts confidence as students prepare for interviews and workplace experiences.
“I think this resource is especially valuable for UW Law students because, speaking as a first-generation lawyer, the professional legal field can be very tricky to navigate,” explained Madison Schwartz 2L.
Schwartz first became involved with the Career Closet last year as a 1L representative on the First Generation Lawyers Board. She volunteered to be one of the students who oversaw those shopping the Career Closet, answering questions they might have and keeping the closet organized. This year, she is involved as the vice president of professional development.
"I think most people may have heard the phrase ‘dress for success,’ but I think when put into practice, it does work. One outfit can potentially change an individual’s entire future." ~ Madison Schwartz 2L
“If we are able to help students feel more comfortable and confident by helping them find a great interview or office outfit, that is one less thing for students to worry about,” she explained.
Schwartz’s own experience helping with the Career Closet last year made her even more excited to take on a larger leadership role this year.
“I believe that having access to professional attire affects students’ confidence in interviews and during internships immensely,” she said. “I think most people may have heard the phrase ‘dress for success,’ but I think when put into practice, it does work. One outfit can potentially change an individual’s entire future.”
While the Closet is available to students year-round (as are donation opportunities), OCPD hosts a Stockup event in which all clothing in the closet is put on display for students to peruse, try on and bring home free of charge. The two-day event occurs in the fall, when students have just gotten to campus and are assessing their wardrobe needs for the upcoming year.
The event began in 2023 when Jenna Balsiger ’24, representing First Generation Lawyers, partnered with OCPD to expand the initiative. Over 200 students participated in last year’s event, with participation increasing more than 20% from 2023.
This year’s event will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 29-30.
While students value the options made available to them during the Stockup, they also praise the overall supportive atmosphere.
“It was a welcoming environment that did not care about our social status to afford clothing,” said one student.
Today, the need remains strong — especially for those participating in externships, clinics and interviews — making the Closet a vital resource for career readiness.
Ideal donations include items that are gently used, freshly cleaned and in good condition. Professional attire of all sizes and styles – including suits, blazers, shirts, skirts, pants and dresses — as well as accessories like ties, belts and shoes, are accepted. Items that can’t be used, such as damaged/stained clothing or athletic wear, are either recycled or donated to nonprofits that distribute them at no cost.
Looking ahead, Slaker hopes to see the Closet grow in scope and visibility.
“We’d like to expand our inventory, deepen alumni and firm engagement, and reach even more students,” she said. “Our goal is to ensure every student feels confident and prepared as they step into professional spaces, and that the Closet continues to reflect the generosity and solidarity of the legal community.”
Support the Career Closet
The most meaningful way to support the Career Closet is by helping stock it with professional attire and essential supplies that empower students to step confidently into their careers.
Corporate, law firm or organizational donors: If your team would like to contribute to an upcoming Stockup event, reach out to the Office of Career and Professional Development at career@law.wisc.edu to coordinate your involvement.
Individual donors: Email career@law.wisc.edu to arrange a drop-off.
Financial contributions: If you don’t have items to donate but would like to contribute to the Closet, donations to help purchase clothing racks, storage bins and other essentials are appreciated. Email career@law.wisc.edu to learn more.
Submitted by Law School News on September 4, 2025
This article appears in the categories: Features
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