Lindsay Black

Hometown: Gaithersburg, Maryland

Current Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Why did you choose SHA?
I chose SHA because I was very interested in Hotel Management but did not want to get lost in the shuffle of huge lector halls. I wanted to feel comfortable approaching my professors after class if I needed further explanation on anything we were being taught. I also chose SHA because of the incredible experience and knowledge all of the professors have. I learned quickly, they were always willing to share this knowledge. This was especially important as I tested the waters in the real world and often sought after professional advice. Lastly, I chose SHA because I wanted a school that had a strong alumni network and close ties with Boston and local businesses. It was extremely important to me to have access to internship and job opportunities in the city while in college.

What are some of your favorite BU memories?
Winter, learning how to cook like a gourmet chef in an intro level cooking class, having the chance to run along the Charles River in between classes, and getting to pick Brian Shockley’s brain about career experiences and advice.

What was your first full-time job? How did you end up in your current position?
My first full time job was with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in their Management Training Program. I was a Manager In Training at the Front Office of Hotel Palomar in Philadelphia for a year. I ended up in my current position as Front Office Manager for Kimpton after maintaining strong relationships and gaining hands-on experience through a summer internship with Kimpton in Alexandria, Va and a part time job with Kimpton in Boston. After completing the MIT program I was promoted to the Assistant Front Office Manager position.

Please describe your current role. How did your SHA education impact your career?
In my current role, I lead 28 incredible individuals in our Front Office, Bell/Door, and In Room Dining team to provide ridiculously personal experiences for every guest at Hotel Palomar. Additionally, I ensure the front office operation is running smoothly. In my current role, I have the opportunity to share my love for the Kimpton culture and instill it in all of my teammates. I am the on-property mouth piece for our really cool guest loyalty program. Lastly, I am responsible for overseeing hiring, payroll, front office ordering, and budget. My SHA education impacted my career in a very positive way. I was able to gain a very well-rounded management mindset through the diverse set of classes I took. Additionally, SHA provided me access to [in my opinion] the best career services advice and team on BU’s campus. SHA’s mandated class credits and internship experience were definitely the career foundation that set me up for success.

Any advice for current and prospective students?
Use your resources! SHA Professors and staff know what it takes to be successful after college. They have your best interest in mind. Ask many questions and put your best foot forward in all that you do while at SHA. First impressions are everything. You never know who you will meet that will get your career jump-started!