Career Center Brings Back Etiquette Dinner With Personal Touch
The CSUSM Career Center proudly revived a cherished tradition this spring with the return of its Etiquette Dinner – the first one held in five years. This dynamic evening of professional development, networking and fine dining was designed to equip students with essential skills for career success.
Hosted by Dr. Yasmine Farley, director of the Career Center and a certified etiquette consultant through Gonzaga University, the event offered students hands-on experience in navigating formal dining settings while cultivating professional presence and confidence.
“Growing up as a first-generation college student from a low-income, single-parent household, I didn’t have access to these types of experiences,” Farley said. “Over time, I learned the importance of etiquette and professionalism in building my career – and it means the world to be able to pass those lessons along to our students at CSUSM, especially in a way that is accessible and cost-effective for the university.”
Thanks to Farley’s recent certification, the Career Center was able to provide this training in-house, eliminating the need to hire an outside facilitator and allowing more students to participate.
The evening guided attendees through a multicourse meal while covering topics from The Etiquette Institute’s framework, “The Four Cs” — context, culture, change and comfort — noting that etiquette isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present and respectful. Students explored practical tips on professional dining – like how to navigate formal place settings, handle utensils correctly, engage in graceful conversation, manage beverage and soup etiquette, and avoid common faux pas. Attendees also learned about networking and how to build a personal brand that leaves a lasting impression.
For many, the dinner was a transformative learning opportunity.
“I'm very grateful to have received the opportunity to attend the Etiquette Dinner hosted by the Career Center,” said Angel Albarote, a human development major. “It was a fun time learning about dining in a professional setting while connecting with other attendees.”
“I gained insight into proper table manners and how to carry myself in formal dining and networking settings, skills that are essential for both personal and professional growth,” said Leo Smith, a pre-business major. “Thank you to Dr. Farley and the Career Center for hosting this wonderful event!”
Anahi Martinez Perez, a business administration major, echoed those sentiments, saying: “The event was not only an enriching experience in terms of etiquette and professionalism but also an invaluable opportunity to network with like-minded individuals. I look forward to seeing this event grow and continue to inspire more professionals.”
The dinner also welcomed CSUSM alumni, including Jasmin Casas, who reflected on the joy of reconnecting with her alma mater.
“It was awesome to be back on campus as an alum,” said Casas, who graduated in 2024 with a degree in literature and writing studies and now works as a legal assistant in the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. “I can’t wait to see what my awesome new friends will do next.”
As the Career Center continues to expand its programming in support of student success, the return of the Etiquette Dinner reflects the team’s ongoing commitment to providing inclusive, practical and empowering opportunities for professional development.
For more information about upcoming events or to learn how to support student professional development, visit www.csusm.edu/careers.
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ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314