By Anne Cummins, Amy Lee and Mikalyn Russell

 

NATCHITOCHES – Hospitality Management and Tourism students from Northwestern State University traveled to Baton Rouge for the Lt. Governor’s Travel Summit. Amanda (Amy) Lee, Mikalyn Russell and Anne Cummins are currently conducting their internships for their degree programs.

 

Lee is interning with Cane River National Heritage Area as a social media and communications assistant and plans to continue working in the field after graduation.

 

“Through my internship I have been challenged creatively and academically along with being afforded the opportunity to attend Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser’s Travel Summit,” Lee said.  “At the summit I was able to continue learning about the hospitality industry and network with people I hope to work with in the future.”

 

Russell is interning with Natchitoches Main Street as the programs and promotions assistant.

 

“During my time at Main Street, I have contributed the knowledge and skills that I learned through the Hospitality Management and Tourism coursework and volunteer experiences to the industry work that I am doing now,” Russell said. “Many of my educational and career goals have been met through this internship.”

 

When asked about her experience at the Lt. Governor’s Travel Summit, Russell said, “I was inspired to know that the hospitality industry is filled with professionals who are willing to polish and assist me as I grow within the industry. I look forward to the continued opportunities to grow my network.”

 

Cummins is currently interning at the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau in group and tourism sales. She has been with the CVB for 2-1/2 years as a travel counselor and plans to continue working in tourism sales for the CVB upon graduation.

 

“I am so thankful for this internship providing me with endless opportunities like being able to attend the Lt. Governor’s Travel Summit. I was able to network and begin meaningful work relationships that will be helpful for years to come,” she said.

 

 

 

Information on the HMT program at Northwestern State is available at hmt.nsula.edu.