Many programs at Herkimer College offer students an opportunity to relate theory from the classroom to a practical work environment under industry professionals through an internship. One of the College’s programs that places many students throughout the calendar year is Travel and Events Management.
“Our internship program began in 1973 and we’ve placed our students with Disney, Turning Stone Casino, the Stanley Theater, Travelodge, Radisson Hotel, Otesaga and others,” said Associate Professor of Travel & Events Management Debra Sutton.
Two students taking advantage of Sutton’s local connections were sophomore’s Kyria Plunkett and Jayre Reynoso-Alcantara. Both are Business: Travel & Events Management majors at Herkimer College, and chose to intern with the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. Both students used Sutton’s connection with Erin Crowe – a 2011 Herkimer graduate – to complete their minimum of 60 credit hours required for senior seminar as course credit for the curriculum. Each had multiple responsibilities which included research, filing, ticketing, customer service, tracking and event management.
“I’m glad I did this,” said Reynoso-Alcantara. “I thought we were solely going to be working on the trains, but I was involved in so much more than that!” We saw the background planning and mechanics needed to make an event successful which was so interesting.”
Plunkett had similar remarks stating, “This is hopefully going to be my way into a career in events, and I’m grateful for this opportunity. I’ve learned how important it is to communicate and network…to-do lists are valuable as well!”
To become the first interns from Herkimer College at the Adirondack Scenic Railroad – both students had to apply – so a cover letter, resume and list of references had to be completed for an interview to take place. Each were easily provided with it being a part of the curriculum.
“Ms. Sutton helped us land this position,” said Plunkett. “She told us exactly what we had to do in order to stand out.”
Both students landed the internship by the end of February and have never looked back since. Just a month later both are close to fulfilling their hourly requirement but hope to stay working with the company afterward.
“I feel like I’m helping a good cause,” said Reynoso-Alcantara. “And the casual setting there makes it easier to come back every day.”
For more information about the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, they recently launched a new website athttp://www.adirondackrr.com/adkrr/.
Travel & Events Management is one of over 40 degree and certificate programs offered at Herkimer College. Each is designed to prepare students to continue their education at a four-year institution or for employment in their respective fields.