I wish I had a dime for every time a mom says to me, ‘oh, my child doesn’t want to do take etiquette classes’, or ‘oh, she’s so busy with dance and soccer, there’s no way we could squeeze in etiquette classes’ … Yes, adding together all of those dimes, I’d be living on an island in the Mediterranean!
The vast majority of our students aren’t too ‘thrilled’ for the opportunity, UNTIL they get there and they realize how much fun we have. Yes, there are a few kids who have heard from friends about how much fun our programs are and ask their parents to sign them up; but again, most are a bit ‘reluctant’ to say the least.
With technology and social media, I’m able to actively keep in touch with many former students who participated for multiple years with us. We even have an alumni party each Spring to reconnect and catch up in person. Needless to say, over the years we have many students who have not only survived, but are now thriving in the ‘real world’!
Yes, eventually, they end up being thankful to their parents for giving them the opportunity to work on the critical skills that are going to make a difference in their careers as a young adult.
Here are some encouraging words from one such student:
“Dressing up in a suit and going to etiquette class was one of the last things that I wanted to do during my fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth grade years. However, my parents were very persistent about my attendance at those classes. Much to my surprise, I actually began to really enjoy the dancing, etiquette lessons, table setting contests, etc. Not only were we there to learn valuable life skills, but it was also a great networking opportunity to meet other students from all around the OKC metro area (although I didn’t realize it was ‘networking’ at the time!). Looking back on my early years in the program, I am extremely grateful for the valuable lessons that I received as well as my parents’ persistence in having us (my siblings and I) present at each class. In my current position at work, I am required to travel around the country to meet with clients on a weekly basis. Each time that I go to dinner with a client, walk into a business meeting, or even take someone on a date, I am reminded of my time spent in class. The proper table manners and social skills have stuck with me to this day and have helped me excel in nearly everything I do. If I have to give one piece of advice to those students that are reluctant to attend etiquette classes because it “isn’t cool,” trust me when I tell you that you will be extremely grateful in about ten years having attended. I’ve been in your shoes!” Sincerely, Preston
Yes, this is why I love what I do. My goal is to help parents raise successful and self-confident young adults!
Click to tweet: Eventually children end up being thankful to their parents for giving them opportunities to grow their character. http://bit.ly/AlumSpot
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As always … Thanks for reading!
– Carey Sue
Etc…
Do you know of a high schooler who would benefit from improved social skills, confidence (the right kind of confidence) and better manners? We have a fun ‘Passport Party‘ coming up October 1. This party is a great way for new students to meet our Student Ambassadors and learn about the program. We’ll have food and a DJ (what more could a teen want!?!?!) Here is the link to learn more: https://www.expeditionsinetiquette.com/youth/passport-party/
We also have the Interview Intensive starting in October for students who are in 10-12th grades. We work on Business Etiquette skills, building resumes, and preparing students for the stressful interview process that is fast approaching. Whether it be for a scholarship, college, or a job; we help to prepare the students so that when they’re placed in a high-stakes interview, they will have real life experience to draw from, feeling more confident during the process. Link for more info: https://www.expeditionsinetiquette.com/youth/interview-intensive-10-12th-grades/
As an adult, if you would like to help us during the mock interviews, please let me know, we would love to have you serve as a roll model for these students. Your services would be needed on Thursday, November 19, from 6:30-8:30pm. You will get to meet some amazing young people that will give you encouragement for our future!
Passport Program Update:
I am still working on the schedule for the Passport Program. As soon as I get the theater outing secured, that will allow me to plan the rest of the schedule. In the meantime, if you know your teen will be participating, early registration is available with a $50 savings off tuition: https://www.expeditionsinetiquette.com/youth/passport-high-school-registration/
Word of Mouth is the best compliment you can give us. Do you know of some who may be interested in our programs, please share our information with them. Here is the best link to share with them, it covers everything in a nutshell: https://www.expeditionsinetiquette.com/youth/programs/
