Publication Date

Spring 4-30-2023

Document Type

Student Project

First Advisor

Schatteman, Alicia

Degree Name

B.A. (Bachelor of Arts)

Department

Center for Nonprofit and NGO Studies

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the impact that is made upon university student’s finances when purchasing recycled clothing. It analyzes how utilizing recycled, free or reduced price clothing sources affects student finances as compared to full price/new purchases. Previous research has indicated that two thirds of college students have acquired debt by the time of graduation, yet students have been found to spend as much as $1,000 on clothing per semester. Despite the clear financial burden of paying for college, students still prioritize shopping for clothing, which prompts the research question: To what extent does college student’s use of recycled clothing shops affect their financial stability? This study utilizes surveying as well as focus group testimonial and data provided by the Huskie Closet in order to measure the impact held by the organization and the extent to which students seek out recycled clothing. The main findings of this data highlight that students are highly likely to return to the Huskie Closet after their first purchase; this serves as evidence that recycled clothing sources offer financial relief, as individuals prioritize returning to the closet. Based off of the findings from the above data, I assert that students who utilize recycled clothing sources are more likely to save money on purchases, therefore they hold stronger levels of financial stability than those who exclusively shop for new clothing.

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