What was your favorite part of the La Chanterelle experience?
When I was a Graduate Assistant from 2021-22. I spent the year alongside Ryan [Blodgett], Rebecca [Doyon], and Kayla [Richards] navigating the hospitality industry post-COVID-19. It was truly an amazing experience being able to go full circle from taking this class as a freshman to five years later teaching the same class.
Describe a time when the La Chanterelle experience helped you overcome a crisis of confidence or helped you with an a-ha moment.
La Chanterelle taught me confidence! On my first service night, I had [late former President Richard E.] “Doc” Wylie and his guests at the table I was serving that night. I spent the first 5 minutes of class crying in the walk-in fridge because I was so nervous. I remember thinking, ‘Well, he has to eat,’ so I pulled myself together and faked it ’til I made it and the night went by in the blink of an eye. I ended up having so much fun! From that night on, I was still a little nervous but I gained so much confidence in my customer service.
Where do you currently work and what are your job duties? How does your current role align with your major?
I work at Boston College as an Event Specialist. I plan annual and special events, creating timelines, budgets, and liability/contractual agreements for over 200+ events each year for internal clients of Boston College. I assist in logistical planning for annual large-scale events such as Pop on the Heights, Commencement, reunions, and Parents’ Weekend, which each hosts over 1,000 people. I oversee contract personnel and college staff, including caterers, florists, stage/lighting production specialists, equipment rental agencies, carpenters, electricians, and other professionals needed to create professional events.
Did you always know you wanted to go into hospitality? What do you love about the industry?
Yes! One of my first jobs in high school was as a server at a golf course. I always loved how chaotic it was. My favorite thing about the industry is that no two days are the same. It keeps you on your toes!
What’s your biggest professional lesson from La Chanterelle?
My experience at La Chanterelle is a little different because I not only took the class but was able to teach the class as well. Being the Graduate Assistant at La Chanterelle truly formed who I am now three years post-graduation. My time as the GA taught me so many valuable experiences, from resilience to work ethic and everything in between. Being only 22 years old running a college class was an eye-opening experience that taught me firsthand what it was like to be a true “adult.” La Chanterelle opened my eyes to the world of higher education and I am now working towards my master’s of higher education at Boston College!
What advice do you have for current or prospective students considering either the hospitality program or taking the La Chanterelle course?
This class is for everyone! From marketing majors to sport management majors, you will need to learn communication skills. Ninety-nine percent of jobs require human interaction and La Chanterelle will force you to make small talk with strangers.