DURANT — Elizabeth Hankey is a single mother who is working toward her master’s degree at Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

So when required to do a project as part of her Applied Business Projects course it was natural for her to think about helping other single moms.

Hankey came up with “Look Of Success,” a project designed to help single mothers prepare for formal job interviews.

“I am a single mom too. I know its hard,” said Hankey.

Hankey teamed up with the Department of Human Services (DHS) to locate women who could benefit from the project, looking for single mothers who had a child or children under age 16 with no father in the household, and who were job ready or working on their education.

Hankey ended up with five women from Atoka and Bryan County who would receive a free hair cut and style from Friends and Co. Salon.

“I love it!” said Emily Dickson who chose a drastic change going from long hair to very short.

The women were also able to pick out and take home outfits from a large rack of clothing appropriate for interviews.

Obtaining the correct sizes ahead of time, Hankey was able to collect clothing for the women, donated by Durant businesses.

With new hair styles and new outfits, the women learned about the dos and don’ts of the interview process. The women then participated in mock interviews to practice what they learned.

“It will help these ladies a lot,” said Beverly Knight, career development specialist with DHS.

Dickson said she learned a lot and it was really helpful information.

Hankey was also happy with the event.

“I think it was a good experience, there were a lot of positive things that happened today,” Hankey said. “I think everyone deserves a chance to take care of their family.”