As a Professor in a small liberal arts college, I take very seriously my responsibility to help my students develop the skills to be successful. One of these skills is to not just know etiquette, but to be at ease with it. Confidence and poise requires practice, and thus I insist that they practice etiquette in my presence. My male students know they must always remove their hats upon entering my classrooms and laboratories.

Later in their life, they may choose to defy social custom in certain situations. But it is knowledge and practice that gives them that choice; they may flaunt the rules, or follow them with aplomb.

You can imagine the ‘shock and awe’ that occurs when I announce this on the first day of classes. There are gasps, jaws drop, glances are exchanged and eyes roll. Some contemplate rebellion, but they soon learn that they have no choice in the matter. And yes, well before the first examination they are all doffing their hats at my door, without a thought or care.

Last week my wife and I entered a local pizza parlor and were led to a booth. Across the room, in a booth on the opposite wall, was one of my students and several of his friends…all wearing ball caps. Our eyes met, and as if by reflex, he snatched his hat from his head. Whispers were exchanged…and soon all the hats were off!

You can imagine my satisfaction.