With a shake of the hands, the deal is official.

Handshakes have been a part of American culture for centuries.

Individuals have regarded one another with a handshake in business situations, as well as using them as a friendly gesture.

According to Wikipedia’s online encyclopedia (www.wikipedia.org/wiki/handshake), a “handshake in America is a short ritual, where both right hands briefly hold each other, usually done when two people meet or depart or complete an agreement. Its purpose is to demonstrate good will.”

The gesture originated in Western Europe, and was practiced by English Quakers in the 17th century.

Today, handshakes are known and practiced throughout the world. However, in many cultures, alternative customs for greeting, such as bowing or cheek-kissing, still are preferred, according to the site.

Junior biology major Ashley Kent said she finds it fit to regard people with proper handshakes.

“I think a handshake says a lot about a person,” Kent said. “A good, strong handshake shows your character is strong.”

Mireya Pourchot, the promotion/ publicity specialist at the Cooperative Education/ Internship Program, said she agreed that handshakes say a lot about someone’s character.

“A handshake demonstrates your level of confidence,” Pourchot said. “A good handshake should be firm, but not over-gripping. It should accompany good eye contact and a smile. Also, if you are nervous and your hands are sweating, give your hand a quick wipe before you offer it.”

Pourchot said the internship department has videos of employees talking about what impresses them about students interviewing for a job. She said one of the complaints about interviewees was a limp or weak handshake.

“I have only heard what our recruiters say about what turns them off,” Pourchot said. “Recruiters also say that they make decisions based on the first 30 seconds of the meeting.”