Five students in the Hospitality Management program at Penn State Berks attended HX: The Hotel Experience at Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City from Nov. 10-11. The HX show is an annual tradeshow for hospitality professionals to explore the latest hospitality innovations, connect with peers, and learn about key trends from leading companies in the industry. HX includes a tradeshow and conference organized by Emerald Exposition in collaboration with the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA).
Rosainy Guerrero Rijo, a sophomore hospitality management major, commented, “Being able to be part of the HX was a unique and unforgettable experience. The number of people you get to meet and the knowledge you gain is extraordinary. There were approximately 4,000 stations presenting something different.”
In addition, the students had an opportunity to join the conference sessions; these sessions covered topics such as leadership, empowering the next generation workforce, and successful networking strategies for women leaders. Students discovered the key expectations for young professionals in the industry and learned about different opportunities.
Brooke Chiappetta, a junior in the program, stated, “By sitting in on conferences led by pioneers in hospitality, everyone that attended was able to take away valuable information they don’t teach you in a formal class setting. I am beyond thankful to my school for allowing me the opportunity to immerse myself in this business setting, one of which I otherwise would never have had the chance to do so on my own.”
In addition, seniors Jamie Greenwood and Carly Schultz, and junior Keyonna Ray also attended HX: The Hotel Experience.
The trip was funded by the Grout Kauffman Endowment for Arts and Culture at Penn State Berks and was coordinated by Jinyoung Im, assistant professor of hospitality management.
About the Hospitality Management Program at Penn State Berks
The hospitality industry is a major economic driver in the Berks County area, and the Hospitality Management baccalaureate degree program is offered in response to the demand for graduates with degrees in the hospitality industry. Penn State Berks is the only campus outside University Park to offer this degree program with the entrepreneurship option. The Hospitality Management degree program helps to prepare students for management positions in hotels, restaurants, resorts, and other hospitality organizations. It also provides a sound background for students who plan to pursue graduate studies.