Your résumé is polished. You've practiced introducing yourself.

But what are you going to wear?

For some college students, that question is more stressful than the interview itself.

Cal State San Marcos has an answer that doesn't require a shopping trip: its Cougar Career Closet offers professional clothing at no cost.

And with a campus job fair scheduled for Tuesday, October 13, the timing couldn't be better.

The Job Fair Is Almost Here

CSUSM's Fall Job and Internship Fair is scheduled for October 13 in the University Student Union Ballroom.

Employers are expected to meet students about internships and full-time opportunities.

It's a chance to introduce yourself beyond the résumé.

The university encourages attendees to bring résumés and dress professionally. Complimentary headshots are also advertised as part of the event.

One detail worth noting: the university's NewsCenter announces 11 a.m.–2 p.m., while its alumni event listing shows 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Confirm which arrival window applies to you with the Career Center.

The alumni listing says no registration is needed and specifies current Alumni Association members. Students should follow the Career Center's instructions.

The event is promoted to students, with alumni eligibility noted separately. General public attendance has not been established.

A Closet That Gives Clothes Away

Here's a campus resource more students should know about.

The Cougar Career Closet began in 2017 through the Latino Business Student Association. Today, the Career Center manages its daily operations.

Students can book an appointment through Handshake and select professional clothing without paying.

According to a September 24 university announcement, students may visit once per semester and take up to four items.

And no, this isn't a rental.

The clothing is theirs to keep, helping them prepare for interviews, presentations and other career opportunities.

That's a practical boost when budgets are already stretched.

Need a Better LinkedIn Photo?

There's help for that, too.

CSUSM's Career Center advertises complimentary professional headshot appointments through Handshake.

The service is separate from the photo opportunity promoted at the fair, so students who can't attend Tuesday may still have an option.

Appointments depend on availability.

A professional photo won't guarantee a job. But it can help students present themselves confidently online.

Your Spare Blazer Could Help Someone Else

Have professional clothes sitting unused in your closet?

The Cougar Career Closet accepts clean, current-style business clothing, including blazers, dress shirts, trousers, skirts, dresses and ties.

The university's donation instructions direct donors to the Craven Circle loading zone and ask them to call 760-750-4900 when they arrive.

Staff can collect clothing from the vehicle. Posted donation hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Confirm those arrangements before dropping items off.

It's a simple way for Vista and San Marcos neighbors to support students preparing for their next opportunity.

One Last Thing Before Tuesday

The fair is at CSUSM, 333 South Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos.

Check the Career Center for current admission details, the correct opening time and any registration requirements.

A good first impression starts with preparation.

And sometimes, it starts with a blazer someone else was happy to share.

Questions You May Have About the CSUSM Job Fair

When is the fair? Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Confirm the opening time with the Career Center.

Where is it? University Student Union Ballroom at Cal State San Marcos.

Is the clothing really free? Yes. Eligible students can make a Cougar Career Closet appointment through Handshake.

Are headshots available? The Career Center advertises complimentary sessions and fair-day headshots.