Field Lecture on Public Relations and Table Manners by English Literature Students of FIB-UBH Visits Hotel Truntum Padang

To enhance students' readiness for the professional world, the English Literature Study Program, Faculty of Humanities, Universitas Bung Hatta, held a Public Relations field study program themed "Table Manners" at the Truntum Hotel in Padang on December 10, 2024.

Dr. Yusrita Yanti, S.S., M.Hum., stated that the field study aimed to equip students with essential formal dining etiquette skills in the professional world, especially for graduates planning to pursue public relations careers. The field study was attended by 18 English Literature students from the Faculty of Humanities, Universitas Bung Hatta, accompanied by academic staff member Rizki Mauli, S.Hum.

Before gaining knowledge about table manners and hospitality, the students were taken on a tour of the hotel by Truntum Hotel staff, who introduced them to the history of the first hotel in West Sumatra and its facilities. Students were given information about hoteliering by Yessy Herlinda, a competent and experienced resource person in the hospitality industry who also serves as the Human Capital Manager of the Truntum Hotel in Padang. The material covered hoteliering, including the attitudes and communication skills required of a hotelier.

A briefing on table manners was given by an experienced resource person, Andy Azwar Azis (Food & Beverage Manager). This activity aimed to equip students with the knowledge and skills of formal table manners, which are a crucial aspect of maintaining a professional image for Public Relations practitioners.

In the professional world, these skills are essential when attending formal events such as business dinners, client meetings, and diplomatic activities. The material covered an introduction to table manners, including the basic principles of formal dining etiquette; the use of cutlery: the proper use of forks, knives, spoons, and napkins; and communication etiquette: how to interact and build positive conversations at the dinner table; and sitting position and posture: maintaining good posture during formal events.

According to students who participated in this activity, table etiquette reflects a person's character and professionalism. By understanding table manners, after graduation and while working, we will be able to maintain our personal and organizational image before the public or clients in formal situations (Haikal and Fadila stated). The students participating in the field course were quite enthusiastic and actively asked questions during the presentation. The event continued with a hands-on session on table manners, where students learned practical applications in a formal dining setting.

Dr. Yusrita Yanti emphasized that this activity is part of a practical learning program designed to prepare students for the professional demands of the workplace. "Public Relations will complement the English for Public Speaking course they have taken over the past two semesters. So, students will not only hone their oral and written communication skills, but also their ability to build a positive impression at every opportunity, including at a formal dinner table," she said.

Through this field course, students are expected to be able to apply their knowledge of table manners in their professional lives, adding value to becoming classy, ​​professional, and ethical Public Relations professionals.