Rosen College student Michael McClatchy won a $5000 scholarship to attend the 29th Annual International Association of Conference Centers (IACC) Summit: Not Business As Usual. Dr. Kimberly Severt recommended Michael for this honor and he enjoyed an all-expenses paid trip to Chicago, IL to represent Rosen College. Dr. Severt described, “Michael encompasses the true essence of hospitality and has a passion for the conference industry. He is a wonderful example for his peers and has continuously demonstrated leadership abilities.”
From March 24-26, Michael networked and attended sessions with the other 200 attendees. “This was my first experience with this size group, which was very personalized as I kept seeing the same people,” shared Michael. He attended all the breakout conferences, enjoyed learning how to sell a conference center and gave a brief speech at the President’s Dinner.
Michael got to know the other students from around the country who also attended the summit. He even established a contact who works at the Ritz Carlton in New York City’s Central Park.
Michael is fully immersing himself in the hospitality industry to build his resume and take advantage of opportunities through Rosen College. Michael’s previous career was in construction and he is now taking every chance to build a reputation for himself in the hospitality industry. “It’s really helped getting involved in the student organizations and attending the conference. Instead of saying ‘no’ to things, I say ‘yes.’ The more you say yes, the more opportunities you get.”
He encourages other students to not limit themselves and to embrace opportunities such as getting to know professors, looking into scholarships and studying abroad. Before graduating this December, Michael and his girlfriend will be traveling to Europe for an 18-day trip. “I have friends in Vienna, Austria because I’ve met so many amazing people in this industry,” said Michael.