Student Spotlight: Joshua Jeong/Tisch Center of Hospitality-Phocuswright Conference Ambassador

Joshua Jeong (also known as JJ) is a sophomore at the NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, earning his BS in Hotel and Tourism Management. He is currently working at a Korean restaurant, Oiji Mi, and previously served as an assistant supervisor for the food and beverage department of a country club in California. At NYU SPS, he is a member of the Korean Students Association and Hospitality Business Society, and serves as treasurer of the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI). An active participant in the Tisch Center’s HI HUB Incubator partnership with Phocuswright, he is one four students attending their annual conference in Phoenix, AZ, as paid student ambassadors to the event.

What led you to the NYU SPS and the Tisch Center of Hospitality?
The internship requirement was what originally led me to the Tisch Center. I knew that having to go through multiple internships to graduate would benefit me. But I realized that the close bond you’re able to form with your professors and classmates, as well as the unique connections you can make in industry, is what is most exciting about studying at NYU SPS.

What have been the highlights of your experiences at the Tisch Center?
Most of my highlights come from my experiences with the Hospitality Business Society (HBS) club. Last year, HBS set up tours of really unique places like The Peninsula Hotel and Cote Korean Steakhouse, giving us a behind-the-scenes look into some of the world’s most recognized and awarded hospitality organizations. This year, as a part of the HBS x HSMAI e-board, I’m able to leverage my connections to create similar, and enhanced experiences for my fellow classmates and colleagues.

What have you learned from your academic studies and the professors you have encountered at NYU SPS?
I’ve learned that most of the expertise our professors have comes from the application of both their studies and real-world experience.

What are you passionate about and why?
Something that has developed into a big passion is food and beverage. Working closely with management at the country club and seeing the steps of service firsthand led me to appreciate what food and beverage can truly be. From selective wine pairings to creative dishes, every day that I immerse myself in this side of the industry is more exciting than the next.

What do you hope to take away from being selected as a Student Ambassador for the Phocuswright Conference?
It’s great to be selected as a student ambassador for the Phocuswright Conference. To have the opportunity to be behind the scenes while also participating in some of the most innovative and exciting talks is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I hope to walk away from the conference knowing that I was able to create a seamless experience and that I’ve made a mark as someone prepared to enter the industry.

Any advice for prospective students to NYU SPS?
Verbalize your thoughts. It might sound silly, but no one can read your mind. I’ve been reminded that if there is something on my mind, whether it be a question or a request, verbalize it. It can be uncomfortable to ask someone to help you, but you have to be willing to help yourself before thinking about everything else. Ask away!

Plans for the future?
The next few months look really interesting to me. I know that if I prepare myself enough, an opportunity will present itself. There will always be something to learn and to be excited about. Other than that, I look forward to developing projects with the friends I’ve made at SPS and working alongside my coworkers to create a special experience.