First-Year Business Scholars Build Professional Confidence Through Etiquette Workshop
Students gained hands-on experience in business dining, networking, and workplace etiquette — building the confidence to navigate professional settings with ease.
First-Year Business Scholars Build Professional Confidence Through Etiquette Workshops
First-year UIC Business Scholars took an important step toward professional readiness this spring through the two-session Business Dining and Networking Etiquette Workshop, led by UIC alumna and etiquette consultant Magdalena Granderson. The program focused on workplace etiquette, business dining, and networking skills.
Held on April 9 and 16, the workshop sessions helped students build confidence in professional settings and develop the skills needed to represent themselves effectively to employers. Through guided practice and hands-on activities, students learned to communicate effectively, navigate formal and informal interactions, and engage in meaningful conversations.
Building Confidence Through Experience
The workshop provided students with a practical introduction to dining and networking scenarios, while the interactive format allowed students to move beyond theory and apply what they learned in real time.
Students practiced everything from proper table manners to navigating multi-course meals, gaining familiarity with expectations they may encounter in internships, interviews, and workplace settings. They also developed strategies for engaging in professional conversations, from introductions to building rapport in networking settings.
These hands-on experiences reinforced the importance of presence, preparation, and adaptability in professional environments, helping students better understand how to represent themselves in future career opportunities.
Learning from an Industry Expert
The workshop sessions were led by UIC alumna Magdalena Granderson, a certified etiquette consultant and founder of The Etiquette Method. Granderson is passionate about helping individuals develop confidence, credibility, and meaningful professional relationships through etiquette and communication. In the workshop, she guided students through the nuances of modern professional etiquette, emphasizing the role of strong communication and professional presence in long-term career success.
“Dining is not about the food — it’s about being gracious, engaged, and fully present. It’s about relationships.”
— Magdalena Granderson
This perspective shaped how students approached each interaction throughout the workshop.
Preparing for Professional Success
By the end of the workshop, students left feeling more prepared to navigate professional environments confidently. The experience not only strengthened their understanding of workplace expectations but also reinforced the value of authenticity and connection in building successful careers. These foundational skills will continue to shape how students approach future academic and professional opportunities.
For many first-year students, opportunities like these provide an early introduction to the expectations and nuances of professional life — well before internships or job searches begin. Practicing these skills in a supportive environment allows students to build self-assurance gradually and to apply what they’ve learned intentionally.
Programs like these continue to play a critical role in helping UIC Business students translate classroom learning into real-world readiness, equipping them with the skills and professional presence needed to succeed in their careers.