MSU FCU Helps Graduates Get "Real"

EAST LANSING, Mich. – Given the recent fascination with makeovers, Michigan State University Federal Credit Union has unveiled its own version for graduating seniors- the Real World Professional Makeover contest. Playing off the idea of preparing students for the real world, the contest will award two graduating seniors with a new professional wardrobe from Bella Blu Boutique or J Strolle; hairstyle and makeover with Douglas J Salon; Spartan jewelry from Wheat Jewelers; professional dress shoes by Cobblers Bench; tax filing service and advice for filing the next year’s tax return from Simplified Tax; four hours of professional coaching from Aspire Collaborative services, LLC; professional briefcases from Betty Price Import; financial planning and preparation from Sovereign Group, Smith Barney; a reveal party at the University Club of Michigan State University and an MSUFCU VISA spending spree, two real world makeovers valued at over $5,000 each. Winners must qualify for an MSUFCU VISA Classic Card to receive the spending spree. “MSU students can enjoy a lifetime of benefits with the credit union,” said MSUFCU Marketing Vice President Joyce M. Banish. “Many graduates are not prepared to make changes to their appearance as they leave the campus atmosphere and begin their new professional careers. The real world makeover is the credit union’s way of continuing to provide for their students. Just like a partnership, MSU FCU’s goal is to continue to guide members into their next stage of life.” MSU FCU kicked off the contest during the University’s Manners and Etiquette Dinner with a student mini-makeover. Tapping MSU senior and finance major Adam Hinman to promote the contest, the over $1.2 billion credit union displayed his life-size “before” photo on stage and revealed the “after” live. Hinman’s mini makeover involved a hair cut and a new professional suit including shirt, tie and a new pair of dress shoes. MSU FCU’s Real World Makeover contest will run February 28, through March 28, 2005. Winners will be announced March 30, 2005. Real World magazine mailings with contest applications are slated for late February. All stages of the contest, from the makeover to the reveal, will be shown on Lansing’s WB30 network television. The credit union has also positioned “Real World” loans that can be used for “graduate needs ranging from a new or used car and dress for success wardrobe, to moving costs or first apartment costs.”