Opportunities open or close in the first moments of an interview, an internship visit, or a networking conversation, and students are rarely taught how those moments work. This session gives young people a practical, judgment-free guide to presenting themselves with confidence. Michele Grant, author of The Power Dressers™, covers why first impressions form so quickly and what they are based on, grooming and attire fundamentals for everyone (with specific guidance for young women and young men), the non-verbal cues that signal confidence, how to set up and show up for a virtual interview, and how to align appearance with career goals through simple goal setting. It closes with practice exercises attendees can repeat on their own: a mirror exercise, a recording drill, and an eye contact drill. Delivered in plain language for a co-ed audience of high school and college students.

Delivered for the WVI Dolphin Foundation Leadership Mentorship Program at the Harlem Educational Activities Fund (2024) as a career development module. Format: 45 to 60 minutes, interactive, with handout. In person or virtual. Audience: high school and college students, youth mentorship and leadership programs, career services, first-generation and early-career programs, parent and school associations.