Imagine the workplace as a totem pole. The boss is at the very top, with all the bright colors, feathers, and grand posture. Below the boss is the manager. The manager has slightly less pomp and circumstance but is still well-regarded. The next section is comprised of the rest of the employees. This part of the totem pole is strong and provides vital support for the upper sections. Now, we’ve come to the bottom. You see that little face, half covered in dirt and missing part of its nose? Guess what? That’s you, the intern. Want to climb that totem pole? Work smart, work hard, and present yourself well. You’re the only one that can harness your work ethic and determination, but if you need help with finding business clothes on a budget, you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s start with the college student’s kryptonite: Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe. Stores like these have some cute stuff, but their pieces don’t last long. I have sent shirts from these stores to do battle with the washing machine and have seen the washing machine come out as a clear winner. No, thank you. However, these stores are absolutely awesome for finding costume jewelry and other accessories. Pretty statement necklaces, sparkly earrings, and classy watches? Stores like Papaya and H&M have got it all. If you want to switch up your purse every season, head to one of these places. Again, they aren’t going to last forever, but you will be an on-trend, savvy-shopping, super intern. Look at you, adulting all over the place!

Here’s something you should know about me: I am a huge champion of department store clearance racks. Macy’s has a section called “Last Act!” where you can get name brand business clothes for up to 70 percent off. I also found Nike gym shorts for $8, but I digress. Do you need blazers? Dresses? Nice shirts? “Last Act!” has got you covered. There are perils to be found in department stores, though. I try to stay away from the full priced areas of these stores to save my intern college student budget. It’s a real bummer to fall in love with something, only to realize it costs as much as a month’s rent.

This is where the bargain-hunting warriors come out of the woodwork. I have had the best luck with business clothes shopping at stores like Ross, Burlington Coat Factory, and TJ Maxx. These places are usually huge and disorganized, but they have some awesome stuff. Muster up some of your Superhuman Intern Powers and flick your eyeliner for courage, because we’re going in. $50 shirts for $15 and $125 dresses for $22 await you. These stores tend to have items that are currently being sold in department stores for significantly cheaper. They have clothes that are from previous seasons, too, but you will have no problem staying on trend. Don’t forget to look at shoes! I recommend having a pair of flats and a pair of heels in a neutral color, and these stores have some great, cheap options.

Want my best tips for navigating these sections? I thought you’d never ask. First, don’t forget to look through the return racks in the fitting room, if the store allows it. If you can’t find your size in the main clearance section, that may mean that your crown jewel is resting on a return rack. Sometimes clothes end up in the clearance section because their size is mislabeled. Don’t trust the number on the tag! I’ve learned what clothing in my size generally looks like, and the eyeball test has helped me find things that failed the tag size test. Before you buy, be sure to look over the clothes carefully for any imperfections. If the garment has buttons, does it come with an extra one? Do all of the zippers work properly? Is the hem sewn straight? Are there any holes on the seams? If it passes the quality test, you have yourself a winner.

Work hard, work smart, and dress the part. Think of your internship as an audition, and do your best to bring in your A-game every day. As MegaMind once said, "the difference between a villain and a supervillain is presentation." It’s the same with an intern and a super intern. If you work hard and present yourself well, you show your supervisor that you are fully capable of presenting the company well. Dressing professionally is a big part of getting your intern foot in the door, and I hope these tips help you find what you need without breaking your budget. Shine on, and good luck!