Sydney Richardson

Major: Hospitality Management
Minor/option/emphasis: Event Management
Company/Organization: Marriott International
Destination: Washington, DC
Timeframe: Summer
Advisor/Coordinator Email: celbert@iastate.edu

Responsibilities

As a Rooms Operations Voyager, I am essentially a manager in training in both the Front Office and the Housekeeping department of the hotel. I will have the opportunity to do a 6-month rotation in both of these areas. At the Front Office, I am an active leader amongst our team and help to manage day-to-day activities of the operation whether it be related to scheduling, checking guests in/out, or managing guest issues. When I complete my rotation in Housekeeping, I will learn about the day-to-day departmental tasks as well as how to manage the scheduling for the Housekeeping team. Another part of my position includes completing the Voyager curriculum. This includes different management and leadership trainings through both online and in-person courses.

Accomplishments

Currently, my greatest accomplishment so far from my experience has been being able to fully run and manage a shift in the Front Office. There are many different tasks that need to be completed throughout a shift, and I feel that I have a good understanding of what these are. Also, I have become confident in my ability to lead and manage the team throughout the shift, even when the unexpected occurs. My skills in problem solving and handling difficult situations have both increased greatly as well.

What advice would you give?

My advice for future students is to get out of your comfort zone. With the position that I chose, I moved across the country to an unfamiliar place and job. My role as a Rooms Operations Voyager forces me out of my comfort zone every single day. It can make me stressed and is often challenging, but I also don’t think I have ever been as rewarded. I have learned more information in this position in the last couple months than I would have thought possible. I have had the opportunity to explore a new area and meet new friends. Although it can be scary, pushing yourself is the best way to see yourself grow.

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