More than 500 students from 34 colleges and universities traveled to Atlanta for the USPOULTRY Foundation College Student Career Program, held in conjunction with the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo. The students had an opportunity to meet and interview for full-time employment after graduation as well as internship opportunities with more than 90 human resource managers and recruiters representing 23 companies.

In a departure from the typical opening session keynote, Debra Lassiter and April McLean of Perfectly Polished gave students a preview of the resources they would have available to improve their interpersonal skills as part of the College Student Career Program. Beyond simply promoting good manners, Lassiter and McLean’s techniques helped equip these young professionals with the soft skills they need to launch their careers and engage with leaders within their organization. Students reacted enthusiastically to Lassiter and McLean’s interactive opening session.

During the week, students learned how to make and maintain eye contact, smile appropriately, adopt good posture, shake hands assertively, carry on an engaging conversation, listen with engagement, network effectively, as well as how to “work” a room. In addition, a professional headshot lounge was available to students.

“Teaching students proper etiquette isn’t about rules or formality — it is about equipping them with the confidence, respect and interpersonal skills needed to succeed in interviews and professional settings. We felt this was a meaningful deviation from previous years’ programs and an essential addition to preparing students for professional success,” remarked LaShundra Littles, USPOULTRY student program and events manager.