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 26.
“Pass the Plate” began with a three-course meal, where students learned proper etiquette when eating salad, an entrée and dessert. The event continued with networking, where students were able to talk with Brandywine faculty, staff, alumni and Advisory Board members about their career paths, including real estate, finance, entrepreneurship, engineering and higher education.
Don Brennan, assistant director of student affairs, was one of the emcees of the event. He noted the positive impact the event had on students in attendance.
“I was very happy with the turn out in terms of number of students who came but also the energy and engagement that the students who attended brought with them,” he said. “One student at the end of the day pulled me aside and told me she wanted me to know how much she learned and the impact the event had on her which made all the planning more meaningful.”
Kenneth Murphy, coordinator of the Center for Social Impact, offered 10 tips to students on how to network. He emphasized the importance of networking and creating value for others.
“The art of networking is about building genuine relationships, understanding people and finding ways to create value for others,” he said. “Networking isn’t about who you know; it’s about how you show up, how you listen and how you create value for others.”
“Pass the Plate” was part of Career Quest, a series of events held in the spring semester to aid students in career readiness.