Photo by Taylor Soule, photo editor
Very few people have the motivation to get up before 8 a.m. class, to shower and to take the time to look presentable. Most students roll out of bed and show up to class in sweat pants and whatever shirt they were wearing the night before. The saying “dress for success” is well known, but is it really true? Is it necessary to dress up a bit on a day-to-day basis or are sweatpants and hoodies acceptable?
Sophomore Kenzie Kramer said that it is very important to present yourself well.
“It is a lot more respectful to professors,” she said. “I think it is rude to show up in yoga pants.”
As a student in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, she said that it is especially significant because your professors are the ones who will be giving you job recommendations, and it is important to make a good impression.
Kramer said dressing well impacts the way your professors view you.
“I think they respect you more, take you seriously and view you as an adult and more responsible,” Kramer said. “When you wear sweats, you drag the rest of the day. Even wearing jeans makes you feel more energized.”
Senior Matt Smith also said that putting in more of an effort affects your performance in school.
“I feel more attentive in classes and less likely to doze off because it gives a more professional feel,” Smith said. “When you go to class in sweats, it’s like wearing pajamas, so it’s no wonder you’re going to want to take a nap.”
Not only does it make you focus in class, but it also shows your professor respect.
“It shows that you are ready to learn and respect their time,” Smith said. “Professors have to dress professionally, so why shouldn’t students?”
Eleanor Zeff, assistant professor of politics and international relations, appreciates when her students look nice for class.
“It makes a very good impression,” Zeff said.
Professors understand students are busy and don’t have the time to dress up everyday.
“If I see people in pajama bottoms, it looks sloppy, but I don’t always notice,” Zeff said.
Zeff said that it is important to portray a positive appearance.
“I think it shows a low self image,” Zeff said about students that don’t look presentable.
Carla McCrea, assistant to the dean in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, agrees dressing well is a significant aspect of professionalism.
“Sometimes I notice, but I would never say anything, but I try not to judge anyone on what they are wearing,” McCrea said.
She also said the way you dress impacts your work.
“If you dress like a slob, then you have that attitude,” McCrea said. “You can’t really function because you have not taken the time to dress for success.”
Professors and students at Drake agree you should dress to impress. Take a little extra time to get ready, and it can go a long way. It is not necessary to wear a suit around campus, but leaving your sweatpants in the drawer can make a big difference. Dressing well establishes a sense of professionalism that people respect and take seriously.
