UCF Hospitality Superstars

Ann McAuliffe '06

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 15:13:00 +0000

Sales & Services Manager,

Visit Jacksonville

q: What do you do?

a: I assist three sales managers at Visit Jacksonville, the Convention and Visitors Bureau for Northeast Florida. Some of my responsibilities include sending out leads, collecting hotel proposals and forwarding information to clients. When groups confirm their meeting for the Jacksonville area, I handle all of their service requests.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: There is a new challenge every day. I focus a lot on the sports market so am constantly sourcing fields, parks and courts.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Since being recently promoted, my biggest challenge is knowing where all the parks and fields are located and what would work best for specific groups.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: I mainly stay in contact with Jen Sandler Rosenthal ’06. We have actually known each other since high school.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At the beach or the mall.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Pursuing my MBA online with Saint Leo University. I am halfway through the program.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: UCF helped me out a lot. While working with groups that are bringing conventions to the city, I utilize a lot of the information I learned from my event classes as far as set-ups and square footage requirements. It was also a shock to my bosses when they hired me that I already understood the workings of a CVB.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Definitely Quality Brewing & Fine Beer. By learning so much about beer, I came to love and appreciate it even more.

q: A UCF memory?

a: It always seemed to be a challenge for me and my friends to figure out where to go during lunch breaks for school, considering the many options along I-Drive. I also remember visiting the parks before, after, and sometimes during class breaks.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: The beef empanadas from Café Tu Tu Tango are my absolute favorite!

q: On your iPod?

a: I know it’s cliché, but I really do have everything on my iPod, from 80s to Rap to Pop to Country. If it’s a good song, it’s on my iPod.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: It shocks people how much I love, know about, and follow sports...especially football.

Jessica Parrot '04

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:44:00 +0000

VIP Services Representative,

Treasure Island Resort & Casino

q: What do you do?

a: Manage exclusive services for "high-roller" guests at a AAA Four Diamond hotel on the Vegas strip. I check them in, answer questions, and set up them up with limos, dinners, shows, VIP lounge, and so on.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Seeing Vegas from the casino side, which is driven by financial motivation, marketing and psychology. It is a business continually improving its ability to learn what will make people spend their money. I also love all of my co-workers.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Guests that are not classified as VIP players but ask to use our services. This is tricky because we want to treat all guests like royalty, but we need to keep VIP services available only to our best customers. We have to be diplomatic.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Here in Vegas, I've had the pleasure to get together with Don Richardson '89, after discovering him through this blog.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: Hiking in Red Rock Canyon, climbing Mount Charleston, boating on Lake Mead or doing Bikram yoga. Occasionally I will go to the hotel pools but prefer to relax away from the strip when I'm not working. The non-stop party you see on T.V. is reality. Where I live is totally different; it's suburbia, similar to Waterford Lakes.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Having the courage to go for it! I moved to a new city where I didn't know anyone and had no guarantees. It taught me a lot about myself.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: The classes teach you about working with people and building relationships. You also get a well-rounded foundation of knowledge about the industry.

q: Your favorite class?

a: The two classes I took with Dr. William Fisher. One was Restaurant Management. He is so engaging.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: With the addition of more focused classes, specifically Casino Management. Also it would be helpful to have a course like "foreign language for tourism" to learn key phrases to communicate with tourists from a variety of countries. It could also explain worldwide traditions and customs. For instance, our casino does not use $50.00 bills because they are considered bad luck. The Wynn Las Vegas, across the street, does not have a fourth floor due to tetraphobia, an Asian superstition associating the number four with death.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Study abroad at the Universite d'Angers, France. The other Rosen College students and I met people from all over the world, and got to see hospitality from a European perspective. Another unforgettable time is when my sorority ΔΓ partnered with the ΔΥ fraternity for Homecoming. It was like a scene from a movie when we won!

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: The lobster ravioli at Bravissimo. Also, Bizzarro's Famous NY Pizza on the boardwalk in Indialantic.

q: On your iPod?

a: The whole gamut, so I have music to match my mood....including country, punk, emo, oldies, reggae and dance music.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I studied Tae Kwon Do for five years and earned my Black Belt.

Daniel Elkin '08

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 19:51:00 +0000

Guest Service Associate,

Orlando International Resort Club
Daniel is pictured with his co-worker Angela

q: What do you do?

a: Provide guest services at a Wyndham Vacation Ownership resort, including check-ins and check-outs, night audit and overseeing housekeeping and maintenance requests.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Interacting with people. We have a good time here. It's an awesome team and we mix and match responsibilities.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Saturdays. There are a lot of check-ins on Saturdays.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Pat Barrett '07, who works at Tuscawilla Country Club.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: In my bed or golfing.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: I just bought a house.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: The instructors were great, not just teaching us the fiscal side of the business but also guest satisfaction. They taught us how to be caring to guests. Without them, we wouldn't have our jobs.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Exploring Wines of the World.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: It was located so far from Main Campus, and the bus was often overcrowded.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Tailgating, and good times with my ΦΔΘ fraternity.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: The Pasta Verde at Giovanni's in Oviedo.

q: On your iPod?

a: Hip hop from a few years ago.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I used to work in the Box Office at the UCF Arena.

Yuliya Masangkay '03

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Thu, 27 May 2010 14:04:00 +0000

Employment Manager,

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
(Maiden name: Yuliya Gavrilovich)

q: What do you do?

a: I've worked at the Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee, Florida for six and a half years. Currently I manage employment, which includes recruiting, hiring, and compensation for all the positions at the hotel.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Gaylord Palms is a unique company because we have a very “grey” environment. We customize decisions and actions based on the situation. It’s fun to have the freedom to make decisions and to have an ability to think outside of the box to truly make a difference for a guest, a STAR, or a fellow Leader.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: While my department operates very smoothly, there's never enough time in the day. It took some time for me to realize that sometimes it’s O.K. to finish something that’s non-urgent the next day.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: In addition to the many Rosen College alumni who work here, I also stay in touch with Jessica O'Boyle '03 and Oriana Guevara '04.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: With my family. We are always out and about.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Being a Mom....the most rewarding job I have ever had.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: I would have never been able to secure a position that I got after graduation without my Rosen degree. Relationships with Career Services and my professors have also helped me be successful in my current role.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Hospitality Law with Rosemary Krebs. She was a fantastic instructor and I was sad to see her leave UCF.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: The classes could be even more difficult, with more hands-on experience in food and beverage, rooms, etc. I have seen higher focus on practicum while recruiting at other schools and I would love to see that at UCF.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Long days! I worked and took extra classes to graduate early. Now that I look back, I have no idea how I did it and was able to have a life.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Sushi at Amura. It might be something different tomorrow – we love trying new restaurants.

q: On your iPod?

a: Running music with a good beat for my running pace!

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I make everything from scratch including homemade bread and ice cream. We care a lot about what we eat and spend a lot of time reading up on latest research and creating an even healthier lifestyle for our family.

Mark Eppers '93

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Thu, 20 May 2010 19:31:00 +0000

Director of Operations, ESP Productions &
Partner, Circle Two Productions

q: What do you do?

a: At ESP, we produce pre-game and half-time shows for major college football games including the Capital One Bowl, Orange Bowl and some Superbowls. My own company, Circle Two Productions, focuses on audio-visual, consulting and logistics management for the meetings and special event industry.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Creating smiles on the faces of my clients, and knowing that my company played a big part in the success of their events.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: I travel constantly throughout the U.S. and internationally, planning multiple shows at the same time. I need to keep up with regional labor and union laws, hiring local vendors, shipping and renting equipment, venue insurance requirements and special requests. It's a challenge just packing clothes and being away for weeks at a time, while still maintaining a home and sense of being an Orlando resident.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Scott Kaylor '93 to this day remains a great friend of mine.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: Walking around Lake Eola and Downtown Orlando, with the occasional stop at an Irish Pub.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Working with local children's charities and building homes for those in need. I try to give back as much as I can. What goes around comes around.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: Classes geared toward the business and financial side of the hospitality industry proved to be helpful, as well as learning industry terminology. College in itself is a place to learn about life and how to deal with people, politics, finances and relationships.

q: Your favorite class?

a: The cooking class (Quantity Food Production). We constructed a menu and then prepared it for our fellow students.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: The program had basically just started and I feel lucky to be a part of it. I had some great professors like Bill Quain and Bob Ashley. It's important to bring in guest speakers from a variety of hospitality fields for the students to interact with. There are so many ways to make a living in this industry. It's eye-opening to talk to real-live working professionals.

q: A UCF memory?

a: The first moment I stepped on the UCF campus. Right then I knew it was the school I wanted to attend.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: I love to cook and I'm rarely at home, so my favorite meal comes out of my kitchen. Here it is: seared ahi tuna with a warm spinach salad and a glass of red wine, on my balcony overlooking Downtown Orlando.

q: On your iPod?

a: All over the board including AC/DC, Jimmy Buffett, Kings of Leon, Sister Hazel and Zac Brown. Music is a great way for me to relax; it clears my head of everything. About 50% of the music on my iPod is for work though.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I used to be a pyrotech, building and shooting off fireworks. I also spent a summer traveling, promoting and producing concerts at state and county fairs around the country. I slept in the back of a semi-tractor trailer and my boss was literally a clown.

Marissa Canneto '08

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 14:22:00 +0000

Assistant Manager,

Trader Vic’s Island Bar and Grill
Sarasota, Florida

q: What do you do?

a: I help manage the flagship Island Bar and Grill for the corporation, which is celebrating its 76th anniversary and has locations in the world's most coveted destinations such as Dubai. I consider myself extremely fortunate to be a part of such a long-standing and prestigious restaurant group.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Definitely auditioning bands. We have live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights at the restaurant. Being able to touch into the local music scene is the more fun part of my job. I also love designing advertisements and flyers, and managing the PR side of things.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Hiring new staff for our opening. I had upwards of 1,000 applicants for the opening team at the restaurant and just over two weeks to bring them on board and get them trained to corporate standards. Plus, the fact that many of them are older than I am can sometimes complicate things.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Just a few… Chad Ingram ’09, Nick Bustillo ’08 and Andrea Hanson ’08.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At the beach. Siesta Key is one of the highest rated in the nation and I love it being so accessible.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: I just signed a contract for a house, so being 23 and purchasing my first home definitely qualifies as the greatest accomplishment for me so far.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: By taking a full course load and working full-time, I learned to understand the real-world “work” hours I am faced with today.

q: Your favorite class?

a: I enjoyed many of them. I wish I had taken more beverage classes since there are three bars in my restaurant; learning everything about beverage inventory and wines has been interesting.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: I think it’s a great program; however, a foreign language requirement would benefit students in the long run.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Football games, having awesome roommates, and graduation itself!

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Taverna Opa… amazing food, friends and fun. I went there for one of my last group dinners before I moved out of Orlando.

q: On your iPod?

a: A little bit of everything…Kings of Leon, Rihanna, Jay Z and Mariah.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I’m the first in my family born in the U.S., and also the first to go to college.

Elizabeth Ford '08

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 16:44:00 +0000

Proprietor,

Super Suppers, Winter Springs

q: What do you do?

a: My company provides "Take n’ Bake" prepared entrees, sides and desserts. I manage the employees and all aspects of the business including food preparation, packaging, customer service, finances and marketing. We sell over 500 healthy, homemade meals to busy people each week.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: I love people and I love food, so this is the perfect business for me. I enjoy the customers and making the meals. I'm from a huge family and we've always enjoyed cooking together.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Making sure we have enough food. If I try to forecast based on past weeks, we end up getting extra customers and I'm making last-minute runs to buy food! We offer 22 different entrées so it's a lot to manage.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Courtney Piggott '10 who will graduate from Rosen College next week, works here in the store. I also stay in touch with Lindsay Shaffer '08.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At Universal Studios; I love roller coasters!

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating?

a: Becoming a business owner more quickly than I thought I would. I was working here at Super Suppers when the owner decided to sell it. I couldn't let down all the customers so thought...why not? With two partners I was able to buy it.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: I wouldn't know how to run a business otherwise! I loved everything about Rosen College; it gave me the guidance, tools and knowledge I need to be successful. The ServSafe Food Safety® class was extremely important to what I do every day, knowing how to handle food and the correct temperatures.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Quantity Food Production. Where else can you learn to cut an apple into a smiley face? I changed my major three times at UCF but found a home at Rosen College - this is something I really enjoy!

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: More hands-on classes like the food prep class. This was more helpful than group projects.

q: A UCF memory?

a: The football championship games...traveling to Memphis for the Liberty Bowl in 2007, and to St. Pete for the Beef 'O' Brady's Bowl in 2009.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Chicken and shrimp cooked on a rock, at the Colorado Fondue Company in Casselberry. Also, their cheese fondue!

q: On your iPod?

a: Rap, R&B and country music.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: My Dad graduated from UCF in 1979. We're die-hard UCF sports fans and have season tickets for basketball and football. Our tailgates are impressive crab boils!

Corinne Large '09

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 20:48:00 +0000

Darden Meetings and Special Events,

BCD Travel

q: What do you do?

a: Create, plan and execute meetings and special events for Darden Restaurants. A team of four of us (three are UCF graduates) manages 400 meetings and events each year. These include everything from an employee Earth Day celebration next week...to store openings across the U.S....to annual worldwide conferences for each restaurant brand.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Events at our new headquarters. This space lets us think outside the box. The lakeside parties are incredible.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Pushing myself to be better, constantly inventing creative concepts for events that haven't been done before.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: I live and work with Lisette Gonzalez '05. Also: Lauren Staiano '09, Melissa Beer '09 and Zack Myers '08.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At home, at the beach, fishing, or at my boyfriend's ranch in Tampa.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Taking the initiative to start a mentor program for UCF hospitality students. Lauren Staiano '09 and I are working with Rosen College and the UCF Alumni Association to build a program that will match current students with alumni mentors.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: It was very hands-on. In my first internship, I spent a month ironing tablecloths and washing dishes. I learned all about different plate sizes and types of linens, which is helpful to my work today. The people at Rosen College teach you to be a go-getter. Other programs prepare you for success in your job, but Rosen also teaches you how to get the job.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Event Design, Production & Technology with Susan Lee. She shared her real-life business experiences with us, and did not hand-hold. We had to think and create the event ourselves. That class was great preparation for the real world, especially learning about timelines. The interviewer for Darden/BCD Travel was impressed with my portfolio, which focused on the event we produced for that course.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: I would have loved a mentor in the event management business. Also, the finishing details of an event (floral arrangements, napkins, etc.) are never formally taught through the curriculum, only perhaps through your internship or trial and error at student-managed events. A "set-up" or "day of event" class should be required.

q: A UCF memory?

a: The gloating when my team won the challenge in Quantity Food Production class! Melissa Beer '09 and I did a chest bump! It was so fun.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: The soup, salad and breadsticks at Olive Garden. Also, sushi at Shogun.

q: On your iPod?

a: On Pandora: Janis Joplin, Norah Jones, Tracy Chapman, Jack Johnson and JJ Grey & Mofro.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I've also launched my own business called The Wedding Directors, together with my Mom. Our first customer was just happily married in South Florida.

Lindsey Cullen '09

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 19:34:00 +0000

Event Coordinator,

Il Mulino New York Trattoria

q: What do you do?

a: Marketing and sales for the Italian restaurant at the Walt Disney World Swan. With a large number of small private flexible spaces, we can host a private reception or party with a customized group menu for up to 400 guests.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: The food! The general atmosphere...it's easy to sell...and people too. This is a nice family. I have worked here almost three years, previously as a supervisor at the pool restaurant. I helped opened the cabanas after their renovation.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Juggling everything and taking time for myself. Today alone there are four events. Also, walking in heels for many hours at a time. The floors here are slick!

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Valerie Davis '06 works here at Shula's. My two roommates Erica Yerton '08 and Courtney Landl '08 also work here at the Walt Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At happy hours in the Sand Lake Area, or at the gym.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: I just graduated in December, so getting this full-time job while in school is my big triumph. I beat out highly qualified candidates, including some who had already graduated from Rosen College.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: It taught me how to talk to people...to be personable and hospitable. It also taught me to be patient with people, which is so important. Kathie Canning, who works full-time at the Orange County Convention Center, taught my event sales class and helped us develop these important communication skills.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Dr. Mary Jo Ross was my favorite professor. My favorite course was Event Design, Production and Technology with Jennifer Janette, who works full-time at Hello Florida!

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: The events held at the Rosen campus, particularly the capstone projects for seniors, need to be more organized. Since we focus on event management, it should be an easy streamlined process.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Planning and hosting the Mad Hatter Brunch at Rosen College, for Andrea St. Onge's Event Management II class.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: I love Seasons 52. I order something different every time, mostly new offerings from their seasonal menus.

q: On your iPod?

a: Anything that's happy. I need to get pumped up for my job! I have an eclectic mix, from country music to Jay-z and Fergie.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I'm from Kansas. I came here for Rosen College's Event Management program and will never move back.

Kelly Dunn '08

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 18:04:00 +0000

Marketing & Membership Coordinator
Boca Greens Country Club

q: What do you do?

a: Three different jobs all at once! I manage marketing, membership and catering for a semi-private, member-owned country club in Boca Raton, Florida.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: I love to coordinate weddings! So much detail goes into planning a wedding and you get to be creative. I am in the beginning stages of hosting a bridal showcase and it's very hard work but exciting at the same time. I also love working at a Country Club because the food is delicious!.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Selling any type of event. In this hard economic period, no one is spending money like they used to. Booking a wedding at $100 per person is extremely hard.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: I do! Laura Guelzow '08, Brittany Andrews '08, Sarah Wilkins '09, Jillian Kahn '08 and Erica Seypura '08.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At home! I just recently moved to South Florida and I only know a few people. I visit Orlando frequently to see friends.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Living on my own! When I was in college, I did not truly appreciate my parents' financial support. But I am proud that I have made a pretty comfortable home for myself.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: It wasn't about the technique of chopping an onion or learning to prepare a financial statement. Even though I flinched at the phrase "Group Project," it really prepared me for the real world. Building relationships with people is an everyday occurrence. I work closely with our General Manager, Food and Beverage Director and our Accountant. There is no "I" in "Team" right?

q: Your favorite class?

a: Seminar in Quality Brewing and Fine Beer. It was not your typical college lecture. Not only was it interesting, it was fun and interactive. My #2 favorite was Yacht, Country and City Club Management.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: I wish they could have offered more "Club Management" style classes. Overall, I was very pleased with the program.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Football games will always be good memories! However, I will never forget the day that I moved to Orlando from Loveland, OH to start at UCF. Boy was that a change! It was the best decision I have ever made.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: At UCF: Pita Pit (Suvlaki). In Orlando: Texas de Brazil!

q: On your iPod?

a: My iPod is currently empty. My computer crashed and I lost all my songs!

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I'll admit it. I watch Teen Nick!

Chris Zaremby '03

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:27:00 +0000

Training Specialist,

Rosen Hotels and Resorts

q: What do you do?

a: Manage and coordinate all training for 3000+ associates at seven properties. This includes record keeping, new hire orientations, quarterly OSHA training, annual management training and executive learning curriculum programs, responsible vendor classes and specialty courses like food safety and CPR. I also developed R.E.A.L., the Rosen Executive Academy for Learning, a quarterly lecture series for salaried supervisory staff covering topics relevant to their daily work and life such as workplace violence and healthy living.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: In addition to my primary responsibilities, I head up our Service Advisory Council and plan our annual Golden Pillars Service Awards gala, honoring exemplary associates. I love meeting our very best people, which is the opposite of what most HR people do. I also enjoy the feeling of a "light bulb turning on" in a student's head. My Blood-Borne Pathogens course, focusing on Hepatitis and HIV, turns me into a science teacher. The moment someone "gets it"...I can just tell. The excitement of new associates at orientation is incredible - they are so happy to have a job, but nervous, and I can sense how the class makes them more comfortable.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Doing more with less. Being the only dedicated training associate, I believe that efficiency is the key to success. I don't want to waste associates' time, but want to give them everything they need to do their jobs well.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Many of them work here! I'm very close with Liz Geer Cain '03, Ilyssa Backer '04, Dave Buckalew '05, Erica Acquavita Buckalew '04, Gary Deel '07, Nikki Suit Stellges '03, Kim Haan M.S. '09 and Scott Mifsud '03.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: With my family and friends, with the alumni chapter of my sorority, or volunteering with the SPCA. I provide foster care for dogs with heartworms.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Being able to stay happy and do everything I want. I'm fortunate to have a husband and two kids, job, volunteer work and still have a busy social life.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: It allowed me to graduate in only three years. I transferred from Penn State, where it would have taken me four years to graduate.

q: Your favorite class?

a: I liked all the professors who taught from the heart. I also liked any class that challenged my way of thinking, like Dr. Pizam's Tourism Geography, which taught us about different cultures. Beverage Management stands out in my mind because at the time it included field trips to wine bars, and also to Friday's to learn about specialty drinks.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: The college will become prestigious if the admissions process is more competitive. Learning a foreign language should definitely be required, especially for hospitality. Of all industries, we need it - to communicate with both employees and guests.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Being involved with the design team for the new Rosen College campus, and attending the dedication ceremony. I still have my hard hat! I was one of the students chosen to help interview prospective instructors for the new school. Also, I remember frequently standing out because I was in a suit while other students were in sweats. I worked full-time as the assistant to the GM at the Radisson on Alafaya, usually coming or going to class straight from work.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: In my kitchen! My husband is a great cook and never makes the same thing twice. I don't go out to eat frequently but when I do, I have strict rules. I don't like chain restaurants and don't go to the same place twice. I'm the same way with traveling; if you spend the money, why not experience something new?

q: On your iPod?

a: I wouldn't own an iPod because I like switching around the radio stations and hearing new songs (similar to my eating and traveling rules). I have a long commute so have become a National Public Radio junkie.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I was one of ARAMARK's youngest ever facility managers, completely running a food center at the University of Florida. I was offered a manager position right out of school only because I took the initiative to chat with the ARAMARK representative at the Rosen College Career Fair. She remembered me when the Gainesville position opened up, and then I got promoted within a year. I don't miss the 60-70 hour work weeks, but it was an incredible opportunity.

Zulkeira Rodriguez '07

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 21:18:00 +0000

Event Sales Coordinator,

ICEBAR Orlando

q: What do you do?

a: Plan parties for convention groups at ICEBAR on International Drive, the largest ice bar in North America. Part of the venue is kept at 27º F and carved from more than 50 tons of ice. My job is primarily sales, but I also manage details including décor and catering; for instance, a company having a team-building event in June will have a professional mixologist teach their guests how to create their own drinks, followed by a contest to see who can create the best original drink. We can host corporate groups or private parties up to 475 guests.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: This is a celebrity attraction. Earlier this week the Food Network was here filming for an upcoming show.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Our concept is unique and successful for visiting groups, but we have a more difficult time with individual locals. Restaurants on Sand Lake Road with happy hours and food are competition. Also I think locals remember the $40 admission to the ICEBAR when we first opened a year and a half ago. It is completely free to come to the Fire Lounge (warm part of the club) and now only $14.95 to enter the ICEBAR if you purchase your tickets online.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Ralph Robinson '06, Sullyann Gonzalez '07, Mickey Grier '09 and Jessica Rivers '09.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At a Magic game...I'm a season ticket holder.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: I'm currently working toward my Certificate in Event Management from Rosen College. This will earn me points toward becoming a CMP (Certified Meeting Planner).

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: It taught me about the networking organizations I needed to join. The faculty all gave us real world advice. The hospitality industry loves Rosen College. I know of several companies that will only hire Rosen graduates.

q: Your favorite class?

a: The History of Wine.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: It's critical that an event software course be added, specifically including CAD (like MeetingMatrix), banquet event orders and automated proposals. Nearly every event position involves RFPs. I interviewed for a job and did not get it because I hadn't used a certain type of software.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Tailgating at the football games.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: At KOBÉ Japanese Steakhouse. I'm a VIP cardholder and go there for every special occasion like my birthday and graduation.

q: On your iPod?

a: Anything that has a good beat, like Lil Wayne, MIA, Kings of Leon, The Fray and Missy Elliott.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I have five star tattoos.

Patrick O'Neal '08

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:11:00 +0000

Food and Beverage Assistant Manager,

Hilton Orlando

q: What do you do?

a: I'm a roving manager with responsibilities for all seven of our restaurant outlets. This encompasses fine dining, casual dining, breakfast, lunch, pool service, room service, and quick service. I need to understand every employee’s role in the operation.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Working with the best in the business. From top to bottom, Hilton Orlando’s 800 employees make an elite team. I consider myself extremely fortunate to learn from such an innovative and dynamic group. I come into work every day with a passion to gain something new.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Our hotel opened in September 2009, so the greatest and most rewarding challenge is putting all the operating systems in place. Every outlet is very different, and fine tuning policies and procedures takes a lot of brainpower and teamwork. It’s an effort that involves employee feedback, guest feedback, and leadership input. There are no precedents to follow, and every big group in house is a new challenge.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: I keep in contact with Giancarlo Lanfranco '08, Kelly Smith '08, Mickey Grier '09, and Andrea Chinea '09. I grew up with Laird Boles '02 and Jeff Boles '09. They are very close friends of mine.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: I love playing golf and fishing. I live in Delaney Park so you might see me at Burton’s and Sportstown, but I’m rarely out of work!

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: Public speaking taught me how to control my nerves. I really hated it my first semester, but all the repetition was priceless. If you want to be a leader, public speaking is a must.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Among many others, I enjoyed Hospitality & Tourism Marketing with Dr. Sandra Naipaul, and also Hospitality Communications with Carole Dickson.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: I believe that the cafeteria should be the best in the nation. There is no reason to contract the service to an outside company. If Three Pillars Café could be woven into the curriculum of Restaurant Management students, it could be beneficial to all parties.

q: A UCF memory?

a: I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent at Rosen; my best memory is graduating, and reflecting back on all UCF did for me.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Linda’s La Cantina has amazing steaks and is very nostalgic to me.

q: On your iPod?

a: Live Widespread Panic! I love those guys.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: My high school was Culver Military Academy in Culver, Indiana. Notable alumni include George Steinbrenner, Bud Adams, Eugene Eppley, Hal Holbrook, Lamar Hunt, Roger Penske, and Gene Siskel.

Michael Fisch '04

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:43:00 +0000

Front Office Manager,

Hyatt Regency Newport Beach

q: What do you do?

a: Oversee the front desk and guest services for a 403-room bayside resort in Southern California. My six-year career with Hyatt has also included positions at the Hyatt Grand Cypress, Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, Hyatt Regency O'Hare in Chicago, and the Hyatt Regency-San Francisco.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Working with my employees; I love my team and watching them get promoted. I also enjoy interacting with the guests. We have many frequent business travelers who come here every week, so I get to know them personally.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Service scores. We've done well and had a 5% increase since I started here. However, that means we need to think outside the box and get to the next level. We're always brainstorming ways to make our service even better.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Yes, Dave Buckalew '05, Erica Acquavita Buckalew '04 and Anne Cecil Fischer '04.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: Traveling. I've been to 70 Dave Matthews Band concerts. Next week I'll be in London and see two of his shows.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Meeting my girlfriend. I met her through Hyatt and we've been dating five years.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: It set the right expectations. I work 12 hours a day. By going to UCF, I knew that these kind of hours would be involved. It gave me the right attitude to succeed.

q: Your favorite class?

a: All my classes with Dr. Peter Ricci.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: While at UCF I didn't enjoy group work at all, but looking back, we should have had even more. It prepared me for working with other departments, like sales and catering.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Our trip to New York, and being president of our chapter of the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA).

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: The honey mustard and BBQ wings at the Ale House. I go there at least three times on each trip to Orlando.

q: On your iPod?

a: Dave Matthews Band, Jason Miraz and Guster.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: My long-term goal is to teach at Rosen College.

Jeff Carcara '92

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:20:00 +0000

Director of Operations,

Seasons 52

q: What do you do?

a: Lead all operations for the Darden restaurant chain to ensure consistency and excellence across the entire dining experience. My responsibilities include...well, just about everything except marketing...including overseeing the field directors, financial reporting, hiring new managers and restaurant openings. A Seasons 52 just opened in Tampa and we're in the process of adding locations in King of Prussia, PA, Schaumburg, IL and Costa Mesa, CA. I've been doing lots of traveling.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Being in the restaurants and making an impact. I like inspiring the managers to in turn inspire their teams. I draw my energy from the guests and team members - something like how Superman gets his energy from the sun.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Finding great people to help grow our company.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: I see Jeff D'Arpa '94 every few years. I have stayed connected with UCF in general, having had season football tickets since I graduated and recently joined the Dean's Advisory Board of the Rosen College of Hospitality Management.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: On the sidelines of one of my son's football games, or taking my daughter to her dance classes.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: My family. I'm proud of maintaining and growing my relationship with my wife and kids.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: My college time prepared me for the social aspect of this business.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Quantity Food Preparation. Our class ran a restaurant, and that experience helped me decide what to do with my career.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: Having had the resources available to today's students. A separate campus allows them to learn with fewer distractions. A focus in the program should be on teaching how to find, inspire and retain good employees, because people are what differentiates one company from the next.

q: A UCF memory?

a: My internship at Bennigan's in Casselberry. I met my wife there! I also had a great GM who empowered me to learn the business.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: At Seasons 52, I'd have the BBQ shrimp flatbread, organic green salad with truffle dressing and swordfish ponzu, with a glass of the Mulderbosch Sauvignon Blanc, plus a pecan pie mini indulgence.

q: On your iPod?

a: 90's Rock like U2, Pearl Jam and the Dave Matthews Band.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I've started writing a book about the hospitality business. It's a real-life tale on how to succeed; for instance, part of success is never feeling comfortable. I'm up to page 43.

Carmen Cox '06

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 15:50:00 +0000

Director of Sales and Marketing,

Hilton Garden Inn,

Virginia Beach Town Center

q: What do you do?

a: Sell to groups coming to our 176-room property, located in the new Town Center of Virginia Beach. Built in 2003, our hotel is within walking distance of great shopping, restaurants and nightlife. I manage client calls and requests.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Building relationships with my clients and meeting all different types of people.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Time management…staying organized and meeting deadlines while still keeping up with selling!

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Yes! In fact, my former boss Sarah Butler '04 was a Rosen Alum and I also met Angela Petruso '05 who is the sales manager at the Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Small world!

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: Spending quality time with friends and family…I know, such a cliché answer, but it’s true!

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Traveling to Ireland, France, Germany, and Holland.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: The real-life experiences taught by the professors provided me with a good understanding of what to expect in the real world. Plus, the internship and hands-on training really gets your feet wet, in all sorts of areas of hospitality.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Catering Management. Our “Fire and Ice” event rocked!

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: Provide more opportunities for students to do a site-tour of a true workplace for whatever track they are studying.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Tailgating and never making it to the actual football game.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Gino’s Pizza located in Downtown..their pizza is so good, especially at 2 a.m.

q: On your iPod?

a: All sorts of music..from Alisha Keys to Queen to Justin Timberlake.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I love to play soccer.

Jessica Crespo '05

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:11:00 +0000

Senior Meetings and Special Events Manager

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
Maiden Name: Jessica Solomon

q: What do you do?

a: I help produce successful meetings and events for groups visiting The Ritz-Carlton Orlando. I'm the main point of contact for their meeting planners to coordinate audio visual, catering, décor and room requests. I act as the "voice of the meeting planner" to each pertinent hotel department. This helps set up the Ladies and Gentlemen who work at The Ritz-Carlton for success.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Building strong bonds not only with loyal, repeat clients, but also with the people I'm fortunate enough to work with on a daily basis within the hotel. I love that everyone's committed to do whatever it takes to make each program or event the very best. It's truly an extended family here because we're together so much with the long hours we work. Every day brings new challenges and, in turn, new innovations. This keeps the hospitality industry interesting.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: The expectations of the seasoned meeting planner or bride are constantly increasing. Meetings and weddings have evolved over the past few years and we are constantly pushing boundaries and trying to come up with new, innovative solutions and offerings for our guests.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Yes, with many who work here at the hotel and within the local industry, including Jason Ring '07, Marissa Moore '07, Holly Steinebronn '07, Julie Noda '05, Candi Evett '06, Joe Manglardi '08 and Brianna Callahan '05. They keep me in touch with the luxury market of Orlando.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: Taking advantage of my beautiful downtown neighborhood. I often spend weekends at the farmers' market with my dogs, riding my bike and enjoying brunch with my husband and friends.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Getting married to my husband two years ago, after we dated throughout college.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: Certain hospitality classes taught me things that are useful in my current position, such as hospitality law and classes geared towards wine knowledge.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Exploring Wines of the World.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: It would be beneficial for UCF to continue to seek new partnerships with local hotels and restaurants, and focus on strengthening its current partnerships. Professors should teach students that a management job directly out of college is not the norm; rather, it is the exception. Students need to focus on experience and internships to secure the jobs they ultimately want. My first position with The Ritz-Carlton was as an hourly concierge, which prepared me extremely well for my current position.

q: A UCF memory?

a: I have many fond memories of my sorority sisters from Kappa Delta. They include volunteering, planning Homecoming events and Spirit Splash.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Either El Coqui Mexican/Puerto Rican cuisine on Bumby or Sea Thai on Colonial.

q: On your iPod?

a: Citizen Cope, Kings of Leon, Jay Z, The Black Keys, Black Eyed Peas, Stephen Marley, Sam Sparro, Santigold, Common, Kanye West.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I met my husband on Spring Break in Daytona Beach.

Andres Calvo '05

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:08:00 +0000

Special Events & Membership,

Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association

q: What do you do?

a: Among other things...keep track of registration for most events, prepare presentations shown at those events, and help respond to members' questions.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Seeing the end result of our events like Bacchus Bash and the Hospitality Tradeshow, after all the different steps we go through to make them happen. Bacchus Bash, Orlando's largest street party, attracts over 25,000 people. It annually raises over $100,000, which is later awarded to hospitality students in the form of grants and scholarships.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Making sure every single detail is perfect and maintaining everything in sync.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Yes. Lindsey Teal '06 and Samantha Ramirez '05.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: Watching a movie, at a restaurant, or hanging out with friends.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Helping with CFHLA's collection drive for items to be sent to Haiti due to the terrible earthquake. The response we received was amazing and we were able to collect medical supplies, water, food, and clothes that were then sent through Harvest Time International.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: Having professors that are also current professionals in the industry provided an insight that proved to be as helpful as a book.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Lodging Operations with Peter Ricci, and all the classes I took with Duncan Dickson and Denver Severt.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: Fewer group projects. While learning how to work with others is a great tool, when you add together having a group project for every class, a job, and all the students' different schedules, it can be quite a challenge.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Walking around Disney and Universal with a video camera, preparing a project on Disney’s FastPass vs. Universal’s ExpressPass.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: So many to choose from: Beef Carpaccio at Brio, Filet Fiorentina at Carrabba's and Venezuelan food at Q'Kenan (across from the Premium Outlets).

q: On your iPod?

a: Don't have one, I use a Zune! A little bit of everything... Rock, Pop, a couple of movie and video game soundtracks, and every single Green Day album.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: When I first came to the U.S. as an international student, I didn't intend to go to college here. My original plans were to study the English language for a year and go back to Venezuela.

Rachael Vogel '05

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 15:43:00 +0000

Director of Corporate Catering & Special Events,

Levan's Catering

q: What do you do?

a: Manage all planning of corporate and social events. This includes the menu, logistics and set-up. About 70% of our events are weddings, but the sky's the limit on what I could be working on! Right now, it ranges from a Super Bowl party at a private residence...to a formal plated lunch for 575 people at the UCF Student Union.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Every event is different. It's not the same banquet and awards ceremony year after year. I love how trends change too. For instance, Tiffany Blue was big in weddings for a while. Lately we see brides thinking outside the box, with colors as non-traditional as black with neon.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: The economy. I've worked here five years and many corporate clients would hold the same extravagant holiday parties every December. Now they tell us they're having a potluck so don't need our services. People are of course still getting married, but on much smaller budgets than I saw earlier in my career.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Julie Noda '05, Brittany Andrews '08, Holly Steinebronn '07 and Tanya Weir Irizarry '08, who also works at Levan's.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: Out-and-about...Downtown with friends, or traveling.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Five years out of college, I know who I am and where I want to go.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: The course content was geared toward our industry. For instance, I could have taken Financial Accounting anywhere, but the examples used at Rosen are specifically for concepts and procedures used in hotels, restaurants and clubs.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Exploring Wines of the World, Quantity Food Production and Hospitality Law. Rosemary Krebs who taught the law class really made you think; for example, if eight guests cram into a hotel room booked for two people, are they really all "guests" and where does the business' liability begin and end?

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: Incorporate more alumni guest speakers who are successful in their careers but been out of school 10 years or less. Vice presidents of big companies have information to share about the industry, but students can relate more with younger professionals. It would be helpful to learning the day-to-day operations in the jobs and departments where they'll find themselves after graduation.

q: A UCF memory?

a: My friends. I was born and raised in Gainesville so 100% of my friends I have here in Orlando are those I made at UCF.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: The filet at Del Frisco's, but I'm always up for sushi.

q: On your iPod?

a: I have an iHome alarm clock hooked to my iPod with a random shuffle, so I never know if I'll wake up to a country song or Old School Rap. I listen to everything depending on my mood; when I have lots of work to do and a need for adrenalin, I'll play Rock or Alternative at my desk.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: My new hobby is making jewelry, and I've already sold a few pieces. Like my job, I love that I'm hands-on - it keeps me busy and uses my creativity.

Nadia Johnson '09

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 18:09:00 +0000

Catering Manager,

Club Cambria, Amway Arena

q: What do you do?

a: I work for Orlando Food Service Partners, managing the catering in Cambria, one of Amway Arena's private clubs. I'm there for every single event when the club's open, which includes Orlando Magic games, concerts, and other events like lacrosse games. I started here as Suites Coordinator three years ago.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Interacting with the guests. I couldn't go to work at a job where I didn't have fun. The event, people and menu here change daily so I never get bored.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Staff. High turnover rates in this industry, training and retraining are a challenge when there's a need for high quality service and consistency.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Amanda Baruch '09, who I just trained to be our Suites Pantry Coordinator, and Nicole McCracken '08, Catering Manager for both the Canon and Blue Clubs at the Amway Arena.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Over the summer, I went to Ireland on an extreme sports trip; we did things like parasailing and mountain climbing. Riding on that high, I'm gearing up for Disney's Princess Half Marathon on March 7, 2010. One of my best friends, Natasha Durand, has battled eight different kinds of cancers since the age of two. My greatest accomplishment will be raising $2100 and completing 13.1 miles to cross the finish line in her honor.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At NASCAR Sports Grille at CityWalk, where I'm an event coordinator. I could also be training for my marathon or relaxing in places like the Vines Grille & Wine Bar, Tavern on the Lake or Tessa Ultra Lounge.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: It taught me the terminology of my industry and led me beyond a hospitality job to a career. I was working as a front desk concierge on International Drive and was unfulfilled. I went for a campus tour and Lori Ashby inspired me to enroll in classes on-the-spot. Rosen is like family. Vivian Ray, Dr. H.G. Parsa, and Dr. Sandra Naipaul, among others, challenged me. I never would have finished college if it weren't for Rosen being such a warm and welcoming place.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Quantity Food Production with Vivian Ray. Through the "Distinguished Chef's Series," we students ran a restaurant open to the public on certain evenings. I became restaurant manager and hostess, which was an incredible experience.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: Expand the Distinguished Chef's Series into a restaurant on the Rosen campus, open full-time to the public. You don't see the overall picture working as a server in a restaurant - like what the chef goes through when the wrong type of chicken is ordered. Also, real-life restaurants have specific price points and menus so attract a consistent demographic. Working in the campus restaurant gave us the unique experience of dealing with all ages and types of people.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Planning and executing a luncheon for Meeting Professionals International members, as part of Elise Enloe's Event Management class.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Seafood at Seasons 52 or the Vines.

q: On your iPod?

a: Country, Hip Hop, R & B, Soul, Rock and Alternative Rock; everything but Punk Rock or Heavy Metal.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I've had a rescue dog named Lady for two and a half years. She's part lab and part beagle, and was living with an abusive family before I adopted her.

Julie Noda '05

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 13:58:00 +0000

Owner and CEO,

Something Borrowed Weddings & Events

q: What do you do?

a: I'm a full-service wedding consultant - handling all of the details from "I will" to "I do." After having managed events at the Orange County Regional History Center and the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, it's a pleasure to be on the opposite end, representing the client. I problem-solve to get everything done according to the bride's plan. My job is to put out fires before they happen, making sure everyone can relax and enjoy the big day!

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: I get to be there for someone's special day. It feels like I'm part of their family for a day and it's a truly rewarding experience.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Adapting to different personalities.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Brittany Andrews '08, Holly Steinebronn '07, Kim Hawkes '07, Jason Ring '07, Adam Bailey '05, Rachael Vogel '05 and Rachel Perez '07.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: I love to cook, so in the kitchen or at the Farmer's Market. I'm even going to the Food and Wine Festival in Miami. I also could be Downtown having brunch with friends.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Being my own boss and setting my own rules.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: My internship at The History Center set me on the path to meeting the right people. I got keyed into the industry and involved in organizations like NACE, ISES and ABC.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Hospitality Law with Rosemary Krebs was interesting and engaging. Catering Management with Kim Severt was hands-on, so most helpful to what I do every day. We learned the details of running an event, like table settings.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: More hands-on experience; instead of mock events in a controlled environment, the students should be working on more real-life events. The first time you tell a client they're in attrition, that's experience. Also, the guest speakers were older and very established in their careers. A mentor program with alumni who are just a few years out of school would be helpful, to help set realistic career expectations.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Roadtrips and, of course, football. Even now we're season ticket holders. It's fun to see how everything's grown with the new stadium and the hospitality program too. When I did my orientation as a Hospitality major, it was just me and one other student.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: The Super Crunch Roll at Amura.

q: On your iPod?

a: Anything but Rock. Happy, upbeat music - songs where you can understand the words, that have a good beat.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I fell down the stairs of the stage after receiving my high school diploma. Thankfully my UCF graduation went well and so has everything since.

Tawanna Frazier '08

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 15:10:00 +0000

Catering and Convention Services,

The Peabody Orlando

q: What do you do?

a: Help manage the Food and Beverage, meeting space and special requests of groups at The Peabody Orlando. This includes city-wide conventions and social events. Since our $420 million expansion nearly complete, we're attracting new kinds of groups including proms.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Working with groups for special events; for instance, the players in the Citrus Bowl and Champ Bowl stayed here.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Juggling school and work. If all goes well, I'll graduate with a Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Management from UCF in December.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Megan Oxman '06 who works with me at The Peabody, Nate Nakamura '06, Jennifer Reynolds '09, Holly Steinebronn '07 and Jennifer Sandler Rosenthal '06.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At a UCF football game. Even when I had to study, I took my books tailgating with me.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Being elected to serve as an officer for the Rosen College chapter of the UCF Alumni Association.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: The classes were exactly what I needed to be successful in my job, particularly the Event Management and Hospitality Finance courses.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Catering Management with Vivian Ray. It taught me what it takes to operate under pressure. Our class catered for the Zora Neale Hurston Festival in Eatonville, a three-day outdoor event. It was like being in the Boy Scouts because we had to cook without electricity. For instance, we had planned on smoothies for part of the menu but there wasn't anywhere to hook up our machine. It taught us to be resourceful and improvise.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: The whole experience was perfect - maybe just a few more real-world projects like I just described.

q: A UCF memory?

a: The activities at Rosen College every Wednesday, sponsored by UCF Student Life. There would be something different every week on the Rosen campus, from making candles to Build-a-Bear.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Crispy Spicy Beef at The Cheesecake Factory.

q: On your iPod?

a: Gospel, Pop, Rap and Rock.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I'm afraid to sleep in the dark. I have a night light.

Amanda Maytrott '03

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 16:10:00 +0000

General Manager,
Capistrano Surfside Inn

q: What do you do?

a: Manage a 37-unit timeshare property across the street from the Pacific Ocean, centrally located between San Diego and Los Angeles. When you step into a smaller property you'd think it would be easy, but I'm a one-person show. I do the payroll, hiring, firing and even front desk shifts as needed. Thankfully Vacation Resorts International (VRI) is a very good management company.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: There's an ocean view from the front desk! The guests are always in a really good mood. They want to be here. I enjoy dealing with the customers who are on vacation. Many of the guests are charter owners from when the resort was built in 1985. About 90% of the "regulars" live within a two hour radius and stay here in June, July and August. During the rest of the year, I meet new people who are exchanging their timeshares from other locations.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Employee relations. Dealing with guests is easy. The employees don't have to like each other, but need to be professional and show respect for one another.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: At the beach. After work, I watch the sunset. A new jogging trail was recently built along the ocean where I live in San Clemente. It's about six miles round trip; I like to run when the weather's warmer.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Getting out of Florida. I was born and raised in Merritt Island. Friends and family keep asking if I'm going to move back, and I always say "no" - I like it here in California.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: It gave me a well-rounded education in hospitality. I started off at USF as a Studio Photography major and knew that wasn't what I wanted. At my UCF orientation, I heard a pitch for the new hospitality program. I had worked in restaurants and thought it was a great fit, and it was everything it promised.

q: Your favorite class?

a: Not Accounting! I had a lot of fun in Dr. Breiter's courses in convention and trade show management, even though I didn't end up in meeting planning as a career. Dr. Upchurch's timeshare course benefited me the most. When I first went to work at Vacation Resorts International, my boss handed me a timeshare resort operations book and said to read it. I told him that not only did I already read it as a textbook for class, but that it was written by my professor!

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: It needs to include more detailed training on employee conflict resolution. Guest Services Management and many of the other courses and internships focus on customer service for the guest, but as managers we need to know how to deal with staff.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Football! I came back to Florida last month to see UCF play in the St. Pete Bowl.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Bahama Breeze. I wish we had them in California.

q: On your iPod?

a: The Beatles, The Pixies, Led Zeppelin, Beck, Sublime, Cream, Bob Marley, Rolling Stones, Less than Jake, Outkast, Norah Jones, Nirvana, Atmosphere and The Kinks.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I'm a vegetarian. I wasn't able to eat a lot of what we made in Quantity Food Prep class. I remember Bob Ashley talking on and on about veal, and me rolling my eyes at him.

Rachel I. Levy '07

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:00:00 +0000

Convention Services Manager,
InterContinental Chicago O’Hare

q: What do you do?

a: I've managed events for 50-600 people in this luxury hotel since its September 2008 opening. I work with clients from various companies around the country and am lucky to have 53,000 square feet of brand new meeting space that co-exists in a contemporary art gallery. Whether it’s a small one-day meeting or a large five-day conference, I work with every department in the hotel to ensure each detail is completed to perfection - Banquet Event Orders, rooming list adjustments, VIP amenities, banner rigging, working with outside vendors for décor and event customization, and so much more.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: The conference! So much time and preparation goes into planning mid-size conferences that when the actual program arrives, it’s a huge pay-off. Watching the attendees have a great experience at the convention is my job satisfaction. I love setting up general sessions in 8,000 square-foot ballrooms with extensive A/V, and organizing beautiful catering banquets with elegant buffets and presentation set-ups...and then seeing it all come to life.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Working with our difficult economy. Many of the clients and companies are on tighter budgets than in previous years. This challenges me to think outside the box and create 5-star events on 3-star budgets. I’m regularly working on the development of innovative menu items and presentations to adjust to our economic reality.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Some Rosen friends that that I’ve kept in touch with that still live and work in Florida are Ryan Stiner '01 and Kelli Hadd '07. Others here in the Windy City are Jenna Borregine '07 and Sean Murphy '08.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: When I have the time off, you can find me relaxing at home, at the movies or out trying new restaurants and bars in Chicago. I also enjoy traveling and visiting interesting places and hotels that I’ve never seen before. I’ll be spending two weeks in January traveling though the Middle East (Israel, Jordan and Egypt). The best part is staying at InterContinental Hotels around the world!

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Spending seven months living and working in Beijing, China. I had the fortunate opportunity to work overseas in the corporate hospitality industry. I spent my time managing sales and marketing projects in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Olympics in Wyndham’s Super 8 China corporate headquarters.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: When I first stepped foot on the Rosen Campus, I knew my life was going to change. Rosen filled me with the knowledge I needed to move forward in this industry. It also provided me unique opportunities to see the industry hands-on and relate with people who shared my passion.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: Practice with property management systems. For example, sales booking software such as Delphi Training or reservation systems such as OPERA. If students had the opportunity to learn these systems that are so widely accepted and used in our hotels and restaurants, we would have such an advantage when entering the real world.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Golden Knights Wine Society meetings that we hosted bi-weekly in the Anheuser-Busch Beer & Wine Lab. It was wonderful to learn in a technologically-advanced environment, with people who are capable of having fun and educational conversations about hospitality.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Yellow Dog Eats Restaurant in Gotha. Simply delicious!

q: On your iPod?

a: I shuffle a little bit of everything. Right now I’m listening to the new Rhianna album.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I love golf.

Jason Ring '07

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Rickmann) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 15:00:00 +0000

Event Services Manager,
Hilton Orlando

q: What do you do?

a: I manage the convention floor while groups are in house. I ensure all meeting rooms and food functions are set to the clients' specifications. I’m described to the clients as an extension of all the departments in the hotel, so essentially I’m a one-stop-shop for the planner with any needs they may have while here.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: I love being able to work closely with all the departments in the hotel. I’ve developed some great relationships with so many people and continually learn something new every day. I work with everyone from housekeeping to AV to the front office to the General Manager every day.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: I don’t actually plan any part of the meetings. Rather, I’m on the floor ensuring everything is executed flawlessly. With so many areas and meeting planners involved, it can become rather challenging trying to get everything done right while also learning about the program as you go. There’s only so much pre-work I can do on the program, so I’m constantly having to think on my feet and stay one step ahead of the group to make sure they get everything they need.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Yes! Julie Noda '05, Marissa Moore '07, John Brooks '07, Holly Steinebronn '07, Shannon Fleshman '07 and Valerie Teman '06.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: In Downtown Orlando. Whether at a Wine Bar, a club, Farmers' Market or Sunday brunch, I LOVE Downtown Orlando!

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Skydiving and Bungee Jumping in New Zealand.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: Working with so many different personalities and having to figure out how to make those relationships work. I hated that we had so many team projects; however, looking back, it was the most valuable experience because it taught me to work with all types of people.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: I would have liked to see more hands-on experience and less textbook-style learning. I learned very quickly that "experiences" trump everything else in this industry, so the more Rosen can offer...the better.

q: A UCF memory?

a: I was nominated for Homecoming King in 2006 and that whole week was so amazing. The best part was driving onto the field for the last Homecoming at the Citrus Bowl. I was just so proud to be a Knight at that moment.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: BBQ Ribs at Houston's in Winter Park.

q: On your iPod?

a: A little of everything! Currently? LMFAO, Maroon 5, Rent, and Carrie Underwood…told you I was eclectic!

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I sang with a performance troupe at the White House for President Clinton’s Christmas party.