Jordan MiniHospitality and Event Management, Class of 2012
Why did you choose Lasell College?
I'm a girl who makes lists, so when I began my college search there were definite things I was looking for and Lasell had them all! The proximity to the city but the safeness and homeyness of the campus was a perfect match. The small student population meant that I wouldn't have to feel like a number; I could still be myself through college and people would know me for me. Their study abroad program and how easy it would be to study wherever I wanted seemed like a dream come true. Their affiliation with the college program at Walt Disney World opened my eyes to the possibility of working with a top hospitality company while still being able to graduate on time. Their honors program seemed stimulating enough but not impossible! And financially? I couldn't say no when I saw the financial package I was offered. I couldn't believe how inexpensive it would be to go to college AND to get everything I wanted on my list! It was like I hit the jackpot!
Do you have a favorite professor? Why?
I really enjoy working with all my hospitality professors for they have vast experience in many different fields of the hospitality industry which allows us to not only learn from them, but also pick their brains to hear about actual stories and experiences they have been involved in.
What has been your favorite class so far and why?
I really enjoyed Hotel Management; we had a project where we had to choose a local hotel and gather research on the property by taking a tour, learning about the marketing side of the business, speaking with employees, etc. It was a great networking experience as well as a fantastic glimpse into the real world of hospitality.
What is your favorite part of your major?
The vast amount of experience I have gotten in my field already while I've still been in school. My resume has practically built itself and I have thoroughly enjoyed every experience I can add to it!
What is your favorite spot on campus?
It depends on when you ask me. During finals, there is a spot in the library on the second floor in one of the individual study cubicles that I call home and I absolutely love that spot, speaking as a bookworm. But other times, like fall or spring time, I absolutely love anywhere outdoors! New England is the best spot for the seasons and Lasell's campus offers plenty of outdoor space to enjoy during those seasons, but isn't too big that winter is unbearable either!
What is one of your favorite memories so far at Lasell?
I absolutely love Midnight Breakfast every semester. It is time for all of us to de-stress from studying and get together with friends before finals and before winter break to catch up and enjoy each others company. And the food's always really good!
What is an example of Connected Learning that you have experienced?
My first year at Lasell I had a hospitality class where we created and built a resort. It was a realistic resort that took research and cooperation among our group members to successfully complete and feel proud of!
What is an internship or volunteer experience that you have completed?
I completed my internship at Walt Disney World in Florida and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I was immersed in a company that is at the forefront of the hospitality industry. For an entire semester I learned how Disney World runs their business and was able to be a part of the magic that makes so many dreams come true!
What kinds of clubs and activities are you involved in?
I've been on the Campus Activities Board and The Lamp, Yearbook Committee for my first three years of schooling and plan to continue them Spring 2012.
What has been your favorite on-campus event?
Super Bingo!!! The competitiveness of Lasell students makes this event a blast! It's a chill way of spending an evening with friends while maybe getting lucky and winning some sweet prizes!
What kinds of things do you like to do on-campus?
I love the musicians that the Office of Students Activities and the Campus Activities Board bring to campus. They offer a diverse group of artists from many different genres so there's a little something for everyone! Also there is always a movie being shown and who can resist a free movie and popcorn!?
What kinds of things do you like to do off-campus?
Where do I even start? Boston is one of the greatest cities for its culture, history, and free things to do! As college students we don't always have the money to splurge on high-end expensive things but Boston has so many free (or inexpensive) options for students that completely submerge you into the culture of the city. Also the Office of Student Activities offers discounted tickets to students for Bruins tickets, Red Sox tickets, musical tickets, and more, so even if budgeting is an issue there are always so many options for Lasell students to choose from. And because we are located right on the green line, transportation isn't an issue to get into the city!
How has Lasell prepared you for the future?
Through the experiences Lasell has offered me I have grown into the professional who is not only ready to enter the working world, but ready to make it my own. From studying abroad to working for Disney, to the networking opportunities I have had in our own Newton backyard, my resume has practically built itself. Not very many college students can say that their resume was effortless to write!
What is something you would tell a prospective student who is considering coming to Lasell College?
Don't settle on a school! And if you make lists in life, make one with priorities for the right fit college for you. If lists don't fail you in life, they won't fail you when making this decision. The school that makes you feel comfortable and at home is the right fit for you! And keep a calm outlook. You will find the right school. We all do! For some it comes quickly, others the search is a bit longer and more in depth, but you'll find the right school. So enjoy the search for thats one of the best parts!
