The Office of Career Services has hosted events throughout the year discussing various aspects of the job search process. From formatting a resume, to what to wear, to even how to accept a job offer, its seminars and discussions have been aimed at helping students land that perfect job.

On May 7, the office will host another event to promote career preparation, but it may be an aspect of the interview process not many think about -- the meal.

The "What the Fork?" etiquette dinner will be held at 5:30 p.m. on May 7 in the UC Ballroom A. Tickets are $5 and the dinner will consist of a four-course meal and formal presentation on etiquette, conversation, dining and more.

"For a price of a value meal at McDonalds you can enjoy a great four-course meal and learn about the importance of etiquette," Michele Tapp, director of Career Services, said. "It is an important skill whether you are interviewing a job, or attending weddings or just attending things where you need to know proper dining etiquette. It is all of the questions you may be afraid to ask, but we are there to help you through the process."

There will be a reception before the dinner where students will be able to learn how to engage in casual conversations while handling hors D'oeuvre and drinks, which Tapp said is an equally important skill to know as well.

According to Rachel Compton, graduate assistant in the Office of Career Services, this event is not just geared toward those students who are beginning the job search process or who will be graduating soon, but also to those who will be attending events and other functions that could lead to a career opportunity later on.

"Maybe you're not applying for that full-time position yet, but you're going to be attending conferences or networking seminars where you are going to have lunch or dinner," Compton said. "And all of those professionals are going to be watching you in that setting and whether you're searching for a full-time position or just networking you still need to have proper etiquette, and it's those little things that will make you stand out from other candidates."

Along with etiquette, other questions will be addressed such as attire, how to tell someone they have food in their teeth, if you should ask for seconds and even whether to accept or decline alcohol when it is offered at the function you are at.

The dress code for the dinner is professional attire, but Tapp said that students should not feel intimidated and that the atmosphere will be one where students will be able to feel comfortable enough to enjoy themselves and ask questions.

"It is educational, but is it not such a stuffy event that you feel completely out of place or like you are being judged," Tapp said. "It is just a fun way to learn about etiquette that is not just studying it from a book."

Tickets are currently available in the Office of Career Services in Academic Hall room 057 until May 4 and vegetarian and gluten free options are available upon request.

For more information contact Career Services in their offices in Academic Hall or at careerservices@semo.edu.