MUW Dining and Career Services Collaborate for Etiquette Dinner

Mississippi University for Women (MUW) Dining recently partnered with the Career Services department to host an Etiquette Dinner, an event designed to prepare students for professional dining experiences with current or prospective employers. The goal was to help students develop confidence in navigating formal dining situations, a valuable skill for those entering the workforce.

Throughout the evening, students learned about various aspects of dining etiquette, including how to network during meals, how to place orders, and how to properly navigate table settings. The event also covered essential dining dos and don’ts, offering a relaxed yet informative environment for participants to practice and ask questions.

Rachel Pitman, Sous Chef and Catering Manager for MUW Dining, and Elise Wilson from Career Services, both led the event after earning their certifications in Etiquette Consulting from The Etiquette Institute and Gonzaga University over the summer. Their expertise provided students with valuable insight and practical tips for mastering dining etiquette. The participants were highly appreciative of the duo's guidance, making the event a significant learning experience.

"The aim of these dinners is to help students feel at ease in any dining situation, whether it's a personal or professional setting," said Rachel Pitman. "We’re equipping students with the confidence to share their expertise and experiences with potential employers, all while maintaining poise and professionalism."

The dinner featured a seven-course meal, which allowed students to practice etiquette in real time:

• Amuse Bouche: Shaved Cucumber Watermelon Roll
• Soup: San Marzano Tomato Basil
• Appetizer: Arborio Arancini with Pomodoro
• Salad: Caesar with homemade croutons and shredded Parmesan
• Pasta: Traditional Carbonara with Handmade Fettuccine
• Main Course: Beef Braciole with Roasted Garlic Mash and Parmesan Broccolini
• Dessert: Tiramisu Cheesecake

This thoughtfully curated menu was not only delicious but also designed to give students experience with a range of dishes they may encounter in professional dining situations, reinforcing skills that will serve them throughout their careers.