I have made some amazing connections with faculty members, industry professionals, professors and even students who have a lot of knowledge. Here are a few of the connections I have made with some professors:
 

​

• Alana Dillette: I have known Dr. D since HTM 201, she has been an important person in my hospitality career. Dr. D pushed me to try my best and work harder throughout my time at SDSU.
  
  
   

• Erin Scholes:  Mrs. Scholes changed my mind about not wanting to work in hotels. She has seen me struggle and face challenges that I knew I will overcome with patience and time. She has really helped me and referred me to industry professionals who will benefit me in the future after graduation.

​

​
 

• Carl Winston: As we all know, Carl's relationship with everybody is "tough love." He wants every student to succeed but pushes them to get out of their comfort zone, try harder and see things in a different perspective. Carl has pushed me to meet new people on and outside of campus. 

​

​

I have also made connections with industry professionals that have been in the hospitality business for years. Some of them that I have learned the most from are:

​

• Ashley Fredrickson: Ashley is a wedding planner who is the CEO of Always Flawless Weddings. I have volunteered with her a few semesters ago and she was a pleasant person to work with. Ashley was the first person I reached out to, especially since I am looking to be an event planner, specifically weddings and social events!
  
  
   

• Sarah Stinson: Sarah has been working as a Sales Director for 15 years. She was an assistant at first and moved her way up to become a manager. Sarah gave me a glimpse of her life throughout her early careers. I got to know her better since we both work at the same place and she always shares her knowledge, stories and experiences with me.
  
  
   

• Darla Mercer: Darla is also a manager at Humphreys that specializes in Catering and Special events. Since I am interested in taking that path, I always enjoy having a conversation with her at the start of my shifts. She definitely has been a pleasant connection and it is lovely working with her!

​

​

​

The beauty of knowing all these great people is how each person has their own style of teaching and/or being a leader. The adventure of knowing each person on this page on a closer level is that I was not afraid of trying to get to know them on a more personal level and being fearless!