Brandywine hosts second annual professional networking dinner

MEDIA, Pa. – Networking is a necessary skill for students to learn while in college to help make connections for internships, full-time jobs and more. Knowing how to eat in a professional setting, such as a job interview or a networking event, is something that often gets overlooked. To teach students how to network and dine in a professional setting, Penn State Brandywine’s Housing and Food Services, Career Services, Development and Student Affairs offices collaborated to hold “Pass the Plate” on March 25.

“Pass the Plate” began with 45 minutes of networking, where students were able to talk with Brandywine faculty, staff, alumni and Advisory Board members about their career paths, including engineering, human resources, communications, information technology, psychology, business and more. The event continued with a three-course meal, where students learned proper etiquette when eating soup, an entrée and dessert.

Elizabeth Kearns, director of Housing and Food Services, was the emcee at “Pass the Plate.” With her many years of experience in the food industry, she was excited to teach students how to eat while talking with professionals.

“I have enjoyed participating in this event over the last two years and facilitating the presentation. I love how by the end of the evening students are relaxed at tables, confident in what they are doing and having meaningful conversations,” said Kearns.

“I want students to have the basics of dining etiquette so that they can focus on the real goal, networking and creating connections. Collaborating with the Advisory Board has also been a highlight of the program. I so appreciate how they are willing to share their experiences and provide meaningful insight and guidance as students are heading off into their careers.”

“Pass the Plate” was part of Career Quest, a series of events held in the spring semester to aid students in career readiness.