Revamping Success: The Power of CBSM’s Professionally Polished Program
By Aila Berrigan
November 4th, 2025
At UAF College of Business and Security Management (CBSM), students are offered opportunities beyond the classroom to strengthen their success within and after college. For many CBSM students, that means gaining tools to succeed in job interviews, networking events and build their confidence.
CBSM student, Arina Didriksen, shows off her new purchases from In My Element. |
Student, Shang Wei, poses in his new attire from Frank’s Menswear. |
During the week of October 7th, CBSM kicked off a partnership with UAF alumni-owned businesses Frank’s Menswear and In My Element. This is possible with funding from Enterprise Mobility and Spirit of Alaska Credit Union. After completing an application and being accepted, students were able to shop in their prospective business. Frank’s Menswear and In My Element offered a wide variety of professional clothing and personal styling advice. Through this program over 20 students left with new clothes but also a newfound confidence.
CBSM student Sammy Bass pops out of the fitting room to show off his new suit.
The CBSM Professionally Polished Program offers students the opportunity to build their professional wardrobe, ensuring they put their best foot forward in their steps to continued success. It offered an advantage on first impressions many students were held back from by financial burdens.
“Thank you for the incredible opportunity! [This opportunity] has always been something I wanted to go out and do, but it never fit in the budget.” - Sammy Bass
This program emphasizes the importance CBSM places on preparing students for success within and after college. The program has been in place for the last seven years and is possible from the support of our local business. These partnerships with our community are valued by our students.“Building my professional wardrobe while supporting local businesses was such a thoughtful way to prepare us for success beyond the classroom. I am truly grateful for CBSM’s commitment to our growth and confidence in the professional world.” - Amber Bratlie
CBSM student, Sammy Bass, proudly shows off his new suit from Frank’s Menswear. |
CBSM student Arina Didriksen browses through shirts at In My Element. |
CBSM thanks Frank’s Menswear, Spirit of Alaska Federal Credit Union, In My Element and Enterprise Mobility for making the 2024 Professionally Polished Program a success while boosting the confidence and preparedness of our students.