For Honors College student Megan Tran (‘27, SAS/HC) sewing has always been second nature. What was once just a hobby has now become a way for her to give back to the Rutgers community. Through the Rutgers Career Exploration and Success’ (CES) newly established Career Closet, Tran is using her skills to help students look and feel their best in professional settings.
Growing up, Tran learned the art of sewing from her mother. Her mother, as one of nine siblings in a lower-income household, had to mend and make clothes out of necessity. But, Tran started using these skills first to make simple clothing for her Barbies and other dolls growing up. Her passion has stayed with her and she now finds joy in thrifting, upcycling, and tailoring clothes to fit just right.
Her involvement with the Career Closet came from a desire to do more.
“I was frustrated because I felt like I wasn’t doing enough,” Tran said. “I wanted to give back to my community using something I genuinely love.”
That opportunity came when she connected with Krista Klein, Associate Dean of the Honors College, who introduced her to the Career Closet, a program that provides free professional attire to students in need. Recognizing a perfect fit, Tran offered her sewing expertise to alter, repair, and even repurpose donated items.
Now, she works behind the scenes, hemming pants, fixing buttons, and even creatively solving unexpected challenges—like repurposing an old pair of pants to add more privacy to dressing rooms.
The Career Closet allows all students to make an appointment and select up to four gently used professional clothing items per semester at no cost. With Tran’s contributions, the program ensures that all students have access to professional attire that boosts confidence for job interviews, internships, and networking events.
Edith Zhao (‘28, SEBS/HC) says of her experience, “I literally went to the Career Closet the day it opened, because there was no way I was going to pass up an opportunity for free professional clothing. I walked out with a full suit and two blouses, which would not have been cheap if I bought them at a store. I'm super grateful to the CES – definitely check it out!”
Through every stitch and alteration, Tran is proving that small details can make a big impact.
As Aaron Ratzan, Assistant Director of the Office of Career Exploration and Success, notes, “Career Exploration and Success helps students through their career journey in a variety of ways. We provide career advising, resume reviews, interview prep, career fairs, and even professional attire to help you look and feel your best!”
The Career Closet is located in the Office of Career Exploration and Success at 106 Somer Street. Learn more about the Career Closet!