Rock Hill college is giving more than just degrees. It’s also handing out new looks

A Rock Hill college is handing out more than just degrees this year.

York Technical College is offering its students an extra hand in obtaining a job by providing professional clothes at no cost to the student as part of an initiative called Career Closet. So, far it’s helped 100 students since its inception in April. It offers business suits, ties, blouses, slacks and jackets donated from faculty, staff and community members, said Nikita Baxter, director of student life.

The closet is located in the Wolf’s Den that recently opened in its permanent location on campus. The location also contains a food bank.

Career Closet started out as a “pop-up” during a career fair as a way for students to have access to business-friendly clothing they would wear in front of professionals at fairs, Baxter said.

“Our students continue to need this service,” Baxter said. “So as we develop the Wolf’s Den, we made this a part of so it would be a permanent opportunity for students to come in and get clothes, not just career fair time.”

Baxter said the Wolf’s Den, named after the school’s new mascot “Titan,” has received an array of clothing over the last year, including from local department stores.

“We still have an abundance that we don’t even have room for,” she said. “But it is good because it allows us to go through the clothing to make sure we have current seasonal clothing as well as professional attire that would benefit our students in all sizes.”

The school allows students and alumni to take home at least two outfits. They can also visit the food pantry twice a month.

To donate clothing, food or funds to the Wolf’s Den, visit yorktech.edu/wolfs-den/ . Students and alumni can also apply for clothing and food on the website.

The Wolf’s Den is open 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 4 - 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. - noon Friday.