The Collins College of Hospitality Management recently hosted two weeks of dynamic programming that brought together students, alumni and industry partners to explore careers in hotel and event management. From coffee chats to alumni panels, these events embodied the Collins experience: learning by doing, connecting with industry leaders and shaping extraordinary careers in hospitality.
Marriott Career Events (Sept. 22–23)
Industry Weeks began with Coffee Chats with Marriott recruiters on Sept. 22, where students enjoyed morning coffee and conversation while learning about internship opportunities and the Marriott Voyage Program. The meet-and-greet encouraged students to ask questions, network and practice professional communication in a relaxed environment.
On Sept. 23, the momentum continued with the Marriott Information Session, a formal presentation that offered deeper insights into career paths, the company’s global footprint and the Voyage Program. Afterward, students gathered at H-Café for “Get the Scoop: Real Talk with Marriott MIT Alumni,” an ice cream social that featured Collins alumni Jacob Alcala and Allysa Trinidad sharing their experiences in Marriott’s Management in Training program.
Hyatt Career Events (Sept. 24)
The following day, Hyatt recruiters joined students for a morning of career connection and insight. Hyatt 1:1 Career Chats gave seniors the opportunity to schedule individual meetings with company representatives for personalized advice and insight.
Later, students attended a Hyatt information session to hear about Hyatt’s early career programs and the company’s commitment to developing talent from within. The day concluded with Get the Scoop: Real Talk with Hyatt CMT alumna Petty Thai, a Collins College graduate who completed Hyatt’s Corporate Management Trainee program. Thai shared valuable tips for navigating the program, embracing challenges and finding success in the hospitality industry.
I’ll Be The Next: Alumni Speaker Series (Sept. 25)
The week concluded with the I’ll Be The Next: Alumni Speaker Series for Hotel Careers, featuring Collins alumni Alyssa Vidaure of Montage International and Jennifer Zhang of Prospera Hotels, Inc. Both speakers shared their professional journeys, offering insight into leadership, adaptability and the importance of resilience in the hospitality field. Afterward, they connected with students to answer questions and give perspectives on careers after graduation.
Hilton Career Events (Oct. 1)
Industry Weeks resumed the following week with a full day dedicated to Hilton. Students began with Coffee and Networking at H-Café, where they connected with recruiters over coffee and conversation about Hilton’s Management Development Program.
Later, students joined a Hilton Information Session to learn about Hilton’s culture, global career pathways and opportunities for professional growth. The day concluded with Get the Scoop: Real Talk with Hilton MDP alum Julian Herrera, who shared his personal experience navigating the program and building a rewarding career.
I’ll Be The Next: Alumni Speaker Series (Event Careers) (Oct. 2)
Industry Weeks wrapped up with the I’ll Be The Next: Alumni Speaker Series in Event Careers, featuring Collins alumni Anna Knezovich of NVE Experience Agency and Marissa Smeets of SoFi Stadium and YouTube Theatre. Both discussed their roles in event management, production and client engagement, inspiring students to explore this creative and fast-paced side of hospitality.
Following the session, students networked inside H-Café, connecting with alumni while reflecting on the insights and connections gained throughout the week.
Building Community, Career Readiness, and Connections
Throughout Hotel and Event Planning Industry Weeks, students had the opportunity to practice professional networking, gain career insights and hear directly from alumni who have translated their Cal Poly Pomona experience into successful careers.
These events highlight The Collins College’s ongoing commitment to learning by doing and to preparing students to become leaders across the hospitality industry.
A heartfelt “thank you” to the college’s industry partners — Marriott, Hyatt and Hilton — and to the alumni and recruiters who shared their time, expertise and passion with students. Their continued partnership helps make The Collins College one of the leading centers for hospitality education in the nation.