Penn State Hazleton students in all majors are invited to an event that will expose students to business etiquette for both informal and formal settings.
The networking mixer and etiquette dinner will be held from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, in the Butler Gallery and Seminar Room. The event is hosted by Career Services, Student Activities and Residence Life.
“This is an interactive learning opportunity for our students in all majors. This event will bring students together to provide ideas and tips that they can incorporate not only into their job search, but also into their everyday professional lives,” Career Services Coordinator Kaitlyn Krasucki said.
For the first part of the evening, the mixer will include light hors d'oeuvres and mocktails. It is designed for students to practice networking in an informal setting similar to business after-hours events or conferences. During the mixer, students will learn about topics such as appropriate conversation starters and how to handle a plate and drink when shaking someone’s hand. Krasucki will guide the mixer segment of the evening.
The sit-down dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. and will be guided by Michael True, a career services professional with expertise in etiquette. The dinner menu includes a salad, main course and dessert with coffee and tea service, with True offering instruction throughout each course. True has led etiquette dinners for other Penn State campuses and spoke at the career expo luncheon at Penn State Hazleton in 2015.
Topics that will be covered during the dinner include clothing selection, the importance of first impressions, body language, cell phone usage, place settings, table conversation and more.
Krasucki emphasized the importance of students learning proper business etiquette, saying, “It has become more popular for meals to be included in the job or graduate school interview process. Also, once in their careers, students will be going to dinner with their colleagues or with clients. This event will help students learn to navigate the do’s and don’ts of professional meals and events.”
Faculty and staff will be in attendance to support and interact with students and demonstrate examples of professionalism. Additionally, community partners and employers from a variety of industries will attend the dinner. Students and professionals will be seated according to their majors and career interests.
Limited seating is available, so students should register soon. Preregistration can be made in Butler 105 or by contacting Career Services Coordinator Kaitlyn Krasucki at kak6071@psu.edu by Friday, March 17. All students are welcome, with preference given to juniors and seniors. Dress for the event is business casual.