Have you ever been to a sophisticated dinner and did not know how to use all the utensils on the table. Once again Northeast Community College’s third annual Etiquette Dinner helped students with that pesky salad fork. The event was so popular last year they added another session, a luncheon from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and a dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Director of Career Services and organizer of the event, Terri Heggemeyer said, “Seems like more and more students are being asked to interview over a meal or when our  students become professionals they get on a committee where food is being served.  So it’s just an opportunity for students to learn proper etiquette and good manners.”

The November 11th event at the Lifelong Learning Center started out with students seated at their numbered tables. The etiquette trainer explained how the plate should be held properly during the cocktail meet and greet. They went to the hors d’oeuvers table to socialize with other students, manage a plate, drink and conversation. Next they tackled salad and soup and learned what silverware they should send away and which to keep. The rest of the meal consisted of a steak, potatoes, green beans and strawberry cheese cake for dessert. Nicholas Staudenmaier said the food was “very excellent.” Coffee, tea, and water were served throughout the meal.

At the urging of their coach, the entire volley ball team attended the dinner. Brittany Sullivan said, “Our coach wanted us all to learn the etiquette of how to eat right so our whole team came.” Staudenmaier said, “I thought it would be a great way for me to act like a professional when I go out.”

For more pictures of the dinner go to our flicker page.