Shouse is a center for learning at the MGH Institute but earlier this week, it became a site for shopping and sustainability during the Career Closet Event. Hosted by Campus Services and the Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) Department in the Shouse lobby on Monday and Tuesday, the event gave students the opportunity to refresh their wardrobes with free, gently used, professional clothing donated by members of the MGH Institute community. 

The initiative was inspired by CSD student Haylie Santos, who approached Campus Services in May with the idea of hosting a clothing exchange to help meet the needs of students in programs that require business casual attire, such as CSD. Many students had expressed concerns that professional clothing can be expensive and difficult to access. 

“We used the same concept from the first Career Closet held in April 2023, as part of an Earth Month event series,” explained Sustainability Coordinator Tyler Leary. “This year, we made some tweaks — hosting in the fall to help students prepare their wardrobe for clinicals and choosing the Shouse lobby as a highly visible and accessible location.” 

In addition to supporting students, the Career Closet promotes sustainability and a culture of reuse. 

“Secondhand clothing reduces the need for new materials, energy, and water— all of which help benefit the environment and support a circular economy,” said Leary. 

More than 200 items were donated by faculty, staff, and students for this year’s event. 

For Mary Pellicio, a first-year SLP master’s student, the event offered both practical support and community connection. 

“It was really nice to see what people donated to help us feel professional — especially as a new student — and also to hang out with some of my peers in a more casual, fun environment than we’re usually in,” said Pellicio.