You really don't need to buy many clothes. Start with the basics and add new components and accessories from there. Be prepared to pay the first and last month's rent before you move in. This closeness helps make the transition to workplace fairly easy. Volunteering can help you achieve your goal.
Most cities have a clearinghouse for volunteer activities.
You might consider taking an evening course at a local college or high school. This may sound like a radical idea, but 100 percent of the recently graduated people I talk with indicate that integrating exercise and good nutrition into their lifestyle is of prime importance, and is related to success in their jobs.