Qian Yang, an international alum, graduated with a degree in hospitality management in May 2017. Since then, Yang has thrived at the prestigious Beach Point Club in New York. 

Growing up in China, Yang knew he wanted to come to the United States for college.  

“At ISU, there is a good hospitality program,” Yang said.  

Recalling his educational path, Yang expresses satisfaction with his journey.  

“Academically, the school was great, and there were a lot of opportunities for me to have real experience,” Yang said.  

Additionally, Yang was a part of the Four Plus One program at Iowa State. This program allows students to obtain bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years.  

“I was involved with the Club Manager Association of America (CMAA) during college,” Yang said. “I became vice president during my junior year and president during my senior year.”  

In addition to leadership roles, Yang was active in the Chinese Student Organization and was a teaching assistant. His involvement with CMAA included attending conferences and enriching his professional network and industry knowledge. 

Yang’s hands-on experience was completed through four internships throughout his college career.  

“Mt first internship was back in China during the first summer break,” he said. “The second summer, I interned with JW Marriott in San Antonio, Texas. Then at the Gateway Hotel in Ames and lastly with the Beach Point Club, where I currently work,” he said.  

When looking back at his time, Yang only has one regret.  

“I rushed my time in college,” he said. “I always tried to stay ahead and do more to graduate on time.” “If I had another chance, I would cherish my time on campus more,” he said.  

Yang offers valuable advice to current students:  

“You want good grades to differentiate yourself from other students,” he said. “But the real thing is you want to have real work experience, find those summer internships.”  

For those interested in working in a club environment or want to learn more about Yang’s story, click here to connect on LinkedIn