Student Spotlight: Alyssa Westman

When Alyssa Westman graduated from high school, she had no idea what career path to take.

"I changed my mind multiple times a week!" she said. "I was looking for a career that was continually changing, new and exciting -- all at the same time. After finishing my general education credits at Elgin Community College, I decided I would try Hospitality Management."

Westman researched schools in the area and decided College of DuPage would be her best option and only option if she didn't want to move. After attending classes for a few weeks, she knew her research had paid off.

"I'm completing my education with great professors and taking advantage of more opportunities that I could imagine, such as a great learning experience with my internship at the Inn at Water's Edge (the six-room boutique hotel located in COD's Culinary & Hospitality Center)," she said. "Joining the Hospitality Club also gives me volunteering experience with the community and a chance to network with individuals in the industry. Also, in the summer I will be studying abroad with some other students and professors in France and Switzerland."

In spring 2012, Westman will graduate with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Hospitality Management and three certificates in the Hospitality Management field. Her next goal is to intern at a large resort somewhere in North or Central America, and she ultimately hopes to manage a four-diamond, four-star hotel.

Right now, she's enjoying her time at College of DuPage and studying in the new Culinary & Hospitality Center.

"This industry is perfect for me in that I have the personality characteristics needed to succeed in this field," she said. "I love that we get to meet new and interesting people every day. You can also travel all over the world because of the variety of job opportunities.

"I truly have the best teacher at College of DuPage that I have ever had. And now we are in a brand new state-of-the-art facility, I couldn't ask for more out of an educational institution. I am so ecstatic that I will be a part of the new Culinary & Hospitality Center alumni when I graduate this spring!"

More about the Culinary & Hospitality Management program