CBSM students and professionals strike a pose at the Etiquette Seminar, ready to take on the corporate world with confidence.
At the UAF College of Business and Security Management (CBSM), we believe success is more than just academic excellence—it’s about stepping into the professional world with confidence, grace, and a strong handshake.
Our dedication to student success extends beyond the classroom, offering unique opportunities for personal and professional development. One way we do this is through events such as our Etiquette Seminar and Dinner and the Professionally Polished Program, which give our students the skills—and the style—to conquer the job market.
Kicking off our professional development lineup, the Etiquette Seminar and Dinner is all about answering those pesky “Am I doing this right?” or “How do I know if I’m embarrassing myself?” questions. From learning how to navigate business dinners to perfecting the placement of your name tag (it’s always on the right, FYI), the seminar covers everything students need to know to impress in any professional setting. This event is designed to teach students the essential professional skills they need to navigate the corporate world with grace and poise. Through the seminar, students learn the proper etiquette for a wide range of professional situations, from office meetings to business dinners. The dos and don’ts of the professional landscape are covered, such as how to properly use cutlery at formal events, the correct placement of name tags (always on the right, FYI, and strategies for engaging in conversations confidently.
This year’s seminar featured expert guidance on the fine art of dining, networking, and making a great first impression. Students learned everything from how to wield cutlery with finesse to strategies for confident conversations. Afterward, they headed to Lavelle’s Bistro to put their new skills to the test. Over a delicious meal, they mingled with industry pros, exchanged contact information, and got a real taste of the professional world.
Accounting student, Elizabeth Stitz, engages in meaningful conversations during the "lighting-round" interviews.
After the seminar, students can put their newfound knowledge into practice. This year, they had the chance to test their etiquette skills in a real-world setting at Lavelle’s Bistro, a respected local restaurant. There, they sat alongside professionals from various industries, allowing them to network, exchange contacts, and build relationships that could help them transition from college to the job market. It was an invaluable experience that not only honed their social skills but also provided them with tangible connections for their future careers.
Business administration student Ivana Lorena Smith connects with Tracy Vanairsdale, 2024 Business Leader of the Year recipient, at the seminar—a perfect blend of mentorship and networking.
After the Etiquette seminar the Professionally Polished Program, allows students to build their professional wardrobes, ensuring they are dressed appropriately for interviews and workplace settings. Thanks to the generous support from Spirit of Alaska Credit Union and Enterprise Mobility partnering with alumni -owned local businesses Frank’s Menswear and In My Element, over 20 students were able to shop for business attire. As a result, our students have not only gained valuable wardrobe pieces, but also a sense of increased confidence in their professional abilities. As the saying goes, “If you look good, you feel good, and if you feel good, you perform good.” At CBSM, we want our students to feel confident and equipped to be the best players in the job market.
Not many colleges offer students the combination of professional development opportunities that UAF provides. At CBSM, we recognize the importance of fostering community, developing interpersonal skills, and enhancing self-presentation—all crucial elements for success in today’s competitive job market. Through these experiences, we extend beyond traditional academics, empowering our students with the confidence and professionalism essential for their career success and highly valued by employers.
These programs wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our community. A heartfelt thanks to the Spirit of Alaska Credit Union, KPMG, Enterprise Mobility, Lavelle’s Bistro, and our other partners for helping us empower the next generation of professionals.
At CBSM, we’re not just shaping students’ futures; we’re creating a ripple effect of success that benefits communities, industries, and the world.
Photography courtesy of Sarah Lewis Photography and UAF CBSM | This article was partially generated using Chat GPT to assist with content structuring.
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By Amber Bratlie