The “four D’s” of business etiquette add up for ALPFA event attendees.

Demeanor. Dining. Drinking. Digital Media. What do you need to know about these four things to succeed in today’s business world?

More than 120 students, faculty and staff plus Ernst & Young associates, gathered recently at Florida International University (FIU) to hear Dan Black, America’s director of campus recruiting, Ernst & Young, expound on these relevant topics.

ALPFA at FIU, an organization for accounting, finance and business-related majors, hosted this signature event. Attendees included not only ALPFA FIU members but also students from FIU Beta Alpha Psi (BAP), the international accounting honor society, along with students from the University of Miami’s ALPFA and BAP groups.

“Black presented each ‘D’ topic with many facts, scenarios, tips and jokes,” said Catherine M. Pena, president of ALPFA at FIU. “He kept the audience engaged with his humor and past experiences. We hope to host him once again in the near future.”

According to Pena, the presentation exceeded the students’ expectations. Certainly, Carlos Garcell agrees.

“I learned what firms look for in potential employees and how to stand out among my peers so that I can succeed in the future,” Garcell said.

tn_SOA_DanBlack_Audience — More than 120 audience members were edified and entertained as they learned about four D’s that can help them succeed.

He relates to the “four D’s” lessons.

“The etiquette pointers for drinking and dining are things that can be used from the corporate world down to family gatherings,” Garcell said. “As for the digital media, it provides excellent ways to connect with current and future colleagues. All who attended (including me) can use this advice to improve professional opportunities.”

Students can count on great benefits from ALPFA membership.

Garcell encourages accounting students to consider joining ALPFA.

“I tap into a wealth of knowledge from our professional chapter members,” he said. “I also gain added exposure to firms that I am looking into as future employers. Professional development is another key aspect of membership, with activities ranging from presentations by professionals to case competitions where you can practice skill sets. What’s more, I’ve gained a great set of friends that are like a second family to me.”