From Intern to Associate

In its search for qualified job candidates, the People & Culture team has built relationships with local colleges that feature hospitality programs. Some of their most promising students are selected to serve as interns at an M&R hotel. High performers are then offered an opportunity to become a full-time associate at M&R.

Maria Gonzalez is one recent example. A graduate of LaGuardia Community College with an associate degree in hospitality management, travel and tourism, Maria served as an intern last fall as a guest service agent at the Fairfield New York Manhattan/Central Park. Earning strong performance reviews, she is now a guest service agent at the Holiday Inn Lower East Side.

“I am grateful for the intern experience,” said Maria. “The skills you learn in the classroom, you get to put into practice as an intern. Checking guests in, responding to guest requests. Everyone at the Fairfield and now at the Holiday Inn has been really friendly and helpful, making me at home.”