The right attire can be crucial to securing a dream internship—boosting confidence and making a positive first impression. Vanderbilt students now have access to free professional clothing, thanks to the launch of the Commodore Closet. This resource helps students prepare for interviews, career fairs and other professional events without the financial burden of purchasing clothes.
Antonella Valdivia, assistant director of equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives at the Career Center, emphasized that creating the Commodore Closet was about removing barriers to professional opportunities.
“We created the Commodore Closet to make it easier for students to attend professional events like interviews and networking,” Valdivia said. “Every student should have the chance to attend these events without the concern of lacking appropriate attire.”
This initiative is a collaboration between the Career Center and Student Affairs. In addition to professional attire, casual clothing options and accessories are available.
The Commodore Closet is more than a collection of clothes; it is a community-supported initiative involving campus partners, donors and staff—all dedicated to supporting student success.
“I think this resource really showcases the Vanderbilt spirit,” Valdivia said. “It’s different members from the community coming together and bringing this to life. People saw a need, and they acted quickly to fill it. It’s been wonderful to see.”
Accessing the Commodore Closet
The Commodore Closet is in the Sarratt Student Center, next to the Baseball Glove Lounge. Here are a few things to know:
- The space is self-service and accessible anytime.
- A dressing room is available to try on clothing.
- If a student takes clothing, they are asked to complete a survey by scanning the QR code on the dressing room door.
- Donations are added on an ongoing basis, so students are encouraged to visit again if they don’t find what they are looking for.
How to Donate
The Career Center is always seeking donations and partnerships to expand the closet’s reach. Here’s how you can help support this initiative:
- Drop new or gently used professional attire off in the donation bins at the Career Center, the Commodore Closet or at The Commons.
- Purchase items from the Amazon Wish List.
- Partner with the Career Center and Student Affairs to host a clothing drive or fundraising event.
Visit the Commodore Closet website or email Antonella Valdivia at brianna.a.valdivia@vanderbilt.edu to learn more.
