SAN FRANCISCO - First impressions are important and manners can determine what kind of impressions are being made. In the business world, receptions and networking events are where those first impressions are made.  

Recently, the University of San Francisco athletics department hosted a unique experience for senior student-athletes and select underclassmen called the "Mock Networking Reception and Professional Etiquette Dinner" led by Sharyn Amoroso. At this event, student-athletes practiced the key elements in making a great lasting impression.

The purpose of the dinner was to teach the Dons how to present themselves in a business dining setting. By creating an environment that is similar to what people will experience as they transition into their careers, the Dons had the opportunity to learn topics covered anywhere from communication and networking skills to napkin etiquette and silverware savvy techniques.

"I learned that there is a difference between formal dining and business dining," said senior Jimbo Lull. "We also learned how to hold a glass, a napkin, a little plate and even where to put your name tag."

When Lull first heard about the event, he didn't know what to expect or what he was going to be doing. As soon as Lull got there, however, he recognized some of the school donors that were there, and he talked to them about it and they all had positive things to say. After that, Lull got more excited about being a part of the dinner. 

"I think it was a positive experience," Lull said. "It's important for others to learn this so I think more people should do it. With some of the people that I talked to that were there, they said that every time they've gone to this event, they learn something new."

Lull said he would go to this event again in the future to see if he could learn something new, but he encourages his teammates to go, especially if any of them are majoring in business or have inclinations to be in the business world.

Vice Provost & Chief Diversity Officer Mary Wardell-Ghirarduzzi was also in attendance at the event and said being with the student-athletes at the dinner was a lot of fun for her, and it reminded her how important the student-athlete experience is to create a strong leadership development. 

"As a former student-athlete, I know the hard work it takes to stay on track with the demands of getting a good college education, especially for first-generation students navigating university life," Wardell-Ghirarduzzi said. "I was proud of how our USF scholar-athletes showed up in the space and were excited to learn a few etiquette tips."

To learn more, go to www.manners.us.com/.