NORFOLK, Neb.- A northeast college is helping students dress for success with little to no cost.

Embarking on a journey of higher education, students often invests thousands into of a degree that unlocks future opportunities. Recognizing that a polished appearance for interviews can be financially challenging. 

But thanks to Northeast Community College, it's stepping in to bridge a gap and empower students

"What we first did was send out a huge survey to students and asked if they are able to afford professional dress," said Northeast Community College Business Director Angie Shaffer. 

What started as a simple closet, has transformed into a creatively designed store. 

Thanks to Shaffer's Advanced Marketing class who eagerly took on the task and designed its new space in the new Maclay building. 

"They actually proposed different names for it, the look, the feel, the design. Before it looked very thrift store and that was exactly what we didn't want. We wanted it to look like a modern boutique and we finally voted and went with Smrt Threads which stands for Sophisticated Modern Re-purposed Threads," says Shaffer. 

Now with the store up and running, students are finding it easier to make a lasting impression on their employers thanks to the store's affordable and diverse selection of professional attire. 

"It is really nice to have something to be able to wear if you can't afford something, and it's all free to our Northeast students," says Northeast Student Kelli Tunender.