The NYU Chapter of Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) is one of the undergraduate student clubs for the Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality. The club’s president, Eunice Chen, talks about her experience at NYU and her objectives for the club.
What brought you to the BS in Hotel and Tourism Management?
I grew up in Ithaca, NY where Cornell University is located. During high school, I was able to work part-time at the hotel school, which allowed me to network with fellow hoteliers who also inspired my interest in hospitality. When applying to colleges, I wanted to be in a city that would allow me to explore different career paths. I chose NYU’s hotel program because it offered flexibility in coursework and provided me hands-on experiences in the hub of hospitality, New York City.
What are the objectives of the NYU chapter of HSMAI, and what kind of programming will the club offer this spring?
Since COVID has put a restriction on the types of events we are able to offer, one objective for the NYU chapter of HSMAI is to create high-quality programs that will continue the club community, even when distanced. We are having our annual HSMAI Intercollegiate Conference this semester that will span over several days. This program is a great way to meet hotel students from other hotel schools and connect with industry professionals. HSMAI will also collaborate with the Hospitality Business Society (HBS) on events throughout this semester, to create meaningful connections and community building within the Tisch Center.
What are your personal goals for your time as HSMAI President?
During my time as HSMAI President, one of my goals is to be able to connect with Tisch Center students in the hotel program and make an impact on at least one student. I hope to be able to share my personal experiences to help a student become a hotelier. I hope that with my involvement in HSMAI this year, I am able to meet new students to create community and grow the club!
How can students get involved in HSMAI?
Sign up at hsami.nyu@gmail.com to subscribe to our newsletters. Follow us on social media (Instagram: @nyu_hsmai, Facebook: HSMAI NYU, LinkedIn: HSMAI NYU). This semester, we will be having our HSMAI Intercollegiate Conference over Zoom in collaboration with other hotel schools. This is a great opportunity for students to learn about the hospitality industry and connect with other hotel students and professionals.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
The Tisch Center provides many great opportunities for both professional and individual development. Four years of university goes by a lot quicker than you can imagine, so make the most out of your time. Joining clubs, like HSMAI, is a great way to jumpstart your college and professional career!