Hello Student Members of PCMA!
I am the Chapter Administrator for the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of PCMA. We are very happy to have you as members of our chapter.
PCMA is a great organization for people interested in the hospitality field. When I was a grad student at Penn State’s Hospitality School, I wish that I would have had access to this great network of people. The members of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of PCMA are very approachable and interested in helping out our student members. Think of the our members as a big team. We’re all here for each other. If you ever need help with career advice, finding a job, an internship, interviewing skills or related matters, I would be happy to match you up with a member who could help you. Finding a job can be a pretty intimidating adventure! But with help, some apprehension and anxiousness can be decreased after a casual talk with someone in the industry.
Please feel free to contact me at gppcma@comcast.net, or via phone at 610.220.1232.
We hope to see you at an upcoming GPPCMA event!
Best regards,
Erica
Monday, March 26, 2007
Friday, March 23, 2007
A Student Prospective of the Annual Meeting in Toronto
Article by Matthew Ardakanian
Matthew is a student of the University of Delaware's Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management, and was the receipient of the 2007 Roy B. Evans Scholarship given out by Professional Convention Management Association. He has been a student member of PCMA since 2004.
We all can agree that fireworks set outdoors seem dangerous enough, but having fireworks put on indoors, is simply inconceivable. Although the majority of those attending PCMA’s Annual Meeting are industry professionals, there are many students who attend the convention with aspirations of developing careers in the convention and meeting planning industry. As a student studying Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management at the University of Delaware, the PCMA Convention was a priceless experience with incalculable benefits.
I vividly remember the disbelief I experienced when I arrived at the orientation program at this year’s meeting and was told that I would be “speed dating” industry professionals. This, by far, was one of the greatest networking opportunities of the entire conference. Within thirty minutes of the start of the conference, I was able to meet approximately twenty industry leaders. Not only did this exercise facilitate an instant air of mutual trust and recognition, this exercise created a continual feeling of comradery throughout the conference that exposed me to internship opportunities and career advice.
The lunch and dinner receptions also proved to be vital places for students to network. The opportunity to dine with industry leaders and ask career advice was advantageous and memorable. Where else would students be able to network with a meeting planner at the closing reception while dancing, unskillfully if I may add, to Shania Twain? In an industry which relies on professional networks, the PCMA meeting in Toronto was the perfect place to meet others in this industry, and no where else can students learn about such a plethora of industry topics. I even learned about biometric security and how to “beat” the systems while at an educational session. The most arduous part of the convention was deciding which session to attend!
The 2006 PCMA Annual Meeting in Philadelphia was the first convention I attended. My experiences at both of the PCMA Annual Meetings have helped me understand that the possibilities when planning an event are endless, and that a goal can be reached in non-traditional ways. From Cirque du Soleil in Philadelphia to indoor fireworks in Toronto, I can only imagine what is in store for the 2008 PCMA Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington.
Matthew is a student of the University of Delaware's Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management, and was the receipient of the 2007 Roy B. Evans Scholarship given out by Professional Convention Management Association. He has been a student member of PCMA since 2004.
We all can agree that fireworks set outdoors seem dangerous enough, but having fireworks put on indoors, is simply inconceivable. Although the majority of those attending PCMA’s Annual Meeting are industry professionals, there are many students who attend the convention with aspirations of developing careers in the convention and meeting planning industry. As a student studying Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management at the University of Delaware, the PCMA Convention was a priceless experience with incalculable benefits.
I vividly remember the disbelief I experienced when I arrived at the orientation program at this year’s meeting and was told that I would be “speed dating” industry professionals. This, by far, was one of the greatest networking opportunities of the entire conference. Within thirty minutes of the start of the conference, I was able to meet approximately twenty industry leaders. Not only did this exercise facilitate an instant air of mutual trust and recognition, this exercise created a continual feeling of comradery throughout the conference that exposed me to internship opportunities and career advice.
The lunch and dinner receptions also proved to be vital places for students to network. The opportunity to dine with industry leaders and ask career advice was advantageous and memorable. Where else would students be able to network with a meeting planner at the closing reception while dancing, unskillfully if I may add, to Shania Twain? In an industry which relies on professional networks, the PCMA meeting in Toronto was the perfect place to meet others in this industry, and no where else can students learn about such a plethora of industry topics. I even learned about biometric security and how to “beat” the systems while at an educational session. The most arduous part of the convention was deciding which session to attend!
The 2006 PCMA Annual Meeting in Philadelphia was the first convention I attended. My experiences at both of the PCMA Annual Meetings have helped me understand that the possibilities when planning an event are endless, and that a goal can be reached in non-traditional ways. From Cirque du Soleil in Philadelphia to indoor fireworks in Toronto, I can only imagine what is in store for the 2008 PCMA Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Ideas on How to Get a Job if you don't have Experience
While perusing the MiForum discussion threads, I found this thread discussing various ways to get your foot in the door for recent grads, and new people to the Meetings and Hospitality Industry.
Click Here to go to the thread for more information.
Most people reiterated that the best ways to get a new job are:
- Networking, Networking, Networking!
- Volunteer for an Organization.
- Do a paid or unpaid internship.
- Don't be afraid to take a basic entry level position after graduation.
- Find a position with someone who is willing to mentor you in your profession.
- Contact industry leaders for "informational sessions" to learn more about
what they do and how they gained experience.
Click Here to go to the thread for more information.
Most people reiterated that the best ways to get a new job are:
- Networking, Networking, Networking!
- Volunteer for an Organization.
- Do a paid or unpaid internship.
- Don't be afraid to take a basic entry level position after graduation.
- Find a position with someone who is willing to mentor you in your profession.
- Contact industry leaders for "informational sessions" to learn more about
what they do and how they gained experience.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Internship Available at Soroptimist
Internship opportunity available with
Soroptimist International of the Americas for the summer of 2007!
The selected intern will assist Meetings Manger,and Executive Director in aspects of planning and preparing for our International Membership Meetings, August 21-27, 2007 at the Philadelphia Marriott. Approximately 500 member attendees from 19 countries will be in attendance. Intern will also gain experience working with registration, space grids, banquet event orders, stuffing registration kits, shipping, and assisting Meeting Manager on-site.
This will be a paid position and will consist of 2-3 shifts per week (8-12 hours per week) Monday through Friday. Weekend hours may be needed during the week of our convention July 19-22, 2007.
The internship will start mid-May and finish at the end of August.
The office is located at:
1709 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
The PATCO highspeed line, Market Frankford El, and Suburban Station Regional Rail stations all provide service to the area.
If interested, please contact:
Belinda Keota at Bkeota@pma.com or 302-607-2154.
Soroptimist International of the Americas for the summer of 2007!
The selected intern will assist Meetings Manger,and Executive Director in aspects of planning and preparing for our International Membership Meetings, August 21-27, 2007 at the Philadelphia Marriott. Approximately 500 member attendees from 19 countries will be in attendance. Intern will also gain experience working with registration, space grids, banquet event orders, stuffing registration kits, shipping, and assisting Meeting Manager on-site.
This will be a paid position and will consist of 2-3 shifts per week (8-12 hours per week) Monday through Friday. Weekend hours may be needed during the week of our convention July 19-22, 2007.
The internship will start mid-May and finish at the end of August.
The office is located at:
1709 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
The PATCO highspeed line, Market Frankford El, and Suburban Station Regional Rail stations all provide service to the area.
If interested, please contact:
Belinda Keota at Bkeota@pma.com or 302-607-2154.
GPPCMA Meeting April 11, 2007
To view all Greater Philadelphia Chapter Events Click Here.
Take a minute and think back to when we all had beepers, and cell phones were large enough to require their own bag. Not too long ago VCRs, slide presentations and hand-drawn floor plans were standard tools, but no longer. Before we knew it, laptop computers, LCD projectors, the Internet and Blackberries became vital components of our working lives. Obviously, the world of technology continues to evolve, continues to re-define our communications needs while providing alternatives for meetings and events.
To stay ahead of the curve, join us for the opportunity to discuss the evolution of technology in our industry and where the trends are leading. John Szymczak from Champion Exposition Services will join us for a discussion based on “The World is Flat”, New York Times’ columnist, Tom Friedman’s vision of the rapidly evolving world of business.
Remember: Those who don’t embrace technology could be left behind in yesterday’s world.
Mark the afternoon on your calendar and join us for an exciting and informative discussion. Space is limited, so be sure to register as soon as possible.
WHEN: Wednesday, April 11, 2007
WHERE: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Independence Mall, Philadelphia, PA 19106, 215-409-6600
www.constitutioncenter.org
11:45am - Registration
12:15pm-1:45pm - Lunch and Program
Are you a planner or student member in need of financial assistance in order to attend this event? Please contact Erica Keagy, Chapter Administrator, at 610-220-1232 or at gppcma@comcast.net for assistance.
If paying registration by check, please bring a check payable to GPPCMA to the meeting, or mail it to PO Box 517, Wynnewood, PA 19096. Guest suppliers are limited to attend two chapter meetings before membership is required. Thank you to our sponsor, Tourism Vancouver, and our hosts from the National Constitution Center and Max and Me Catering!
Please support our 2007 charity, Volunteers of America / Delaware Valley, serving the Anna M. Sample House in Camden, by bringing donations of new or gently used twin flat and fitted sheets, pillow cases, and books for adults.
View Event Summary
RSVP by Friday, April 6, 2007 to:
Erica Keagy
Chapter Administrator
610-220-1232
gppcma@comcast.net
The Future of Technology in Our Industry
The Future of Technology in Our Industry
Take a minute and think back to when we all had beepers, and cell phones were large enough to require their own bag. Not too long ago VCRs, slide presentations and hand-drawn floor plans were standard tools, but no longer. Before we knew it, laptop computers, LCD projectors, the Internet and Blackberries became vital components of our working lives. Obviously, the world of technology continues to evolve, continues to re-define our communications needs while providing alternatives for meetings and events.
To stay ahead of the curve, join us for the opportunity to discuss the evolution of technology in our industry and where the trends are leading. John Szymczak from Champion Exposition Services will join us for a discussion based on “The World is Flat”, New York Times’ columnist, Tom Friedman’s vision of the rapidly evolving world of business.
Remember: Those who don’t embrace technology could be left behind in yesterday’s world.
Mark the afternoon on your calendar and join us for an exciting and informative discussion. Space is limited, so be sure to register as soon as possible.
WHEN: Wednesday, April 11, 2007
WHERE: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Independence Mall, Philadelphia, PA 19106, 215-409-6600
www.constitutioncenter.org
11:45am - Registration
12:15pm-1:45pm - Lunch and Program
Are you a planner or student member in need of financial assistance in order to attend this event? Please contact Erica Keagy, Chapter Administrator, at 610-220-1232 or at gppcma@comcast.net for assistance.
If paying registration by check, please bring a check payable to GPPCMA to the meeting, or mail it to PO Box 517, Wynnewood, PA 19096. Guest suppliers are limited to attend two chapter meetings before membership is required. Thank you to our sponsor, Tourism Vancouver, and our hosts from the National Constitution Center and Max and Me Catering!
Please support our 2007 charity, Volunteers of America / Delaware Valley, serving the Anna M. Sample House in Camden, by bringing donations of new or gently used twin flat and fitted sheets, pillow cases, and books for adults.
View Event Summary
RSVP by Friday, April 6, 2007 to:
Erica Keagy
Chapter Administrator
610-220-1232
gppcma@comcast.net
University of Delaware's 5th Annual Round Table Discussion
When: Monday, April 16th @ 2:30 PM
Where: Courtyard by Marriott, Newark, Delaware
The University of Delaware's PCMA student chapter is hosting their fifth annual Round Table Discussion on Monday, April 16. The event will take place at the Courtyard by Marriott, Newark at The University of Delaware beginning at 2:30PM. The event will last approximately 2 hours and light refreshments will be served.
This is an excellent opportunity for students to learn about various aspects of the hospitality industry and to network with area professionals. The following fields will be represented at the event: Casinos, Destination Management Companies, Country Clubs, Convention Centers, Food Service, Convention & Visitor Bureaus, Third Party Equipment Rentals, Association Meeting Planning.
We are looking forward to another successful event. Students from all schools are invited. If you are planning on attending, please RSVP to Sarah Foust at the information provided below.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact:
Sarah Foust
VP of Education
PCMA-UD Chapter
smfoust@udel.edu
Where: Courtyard by Marriott, Newark, Delaware
The University of Delaware's PCMA student chapter is hosting their fifth annual Round Table Discussion on Monday, April 16. The event will take place at the Courtyard by Marriott, Newark at The University of Delaware beginning at 2:30PM. The event will last approximately 2 hours and light refreshments will be served.
This is an excellent opportunity for students to learn about various aspects of the hospitality industry and to network with area professionals. The following fields will be represented at the event: Casinos, Destination Management Companies, Country Clubs, Convention Centers, Food Service, Convention & Visitor Bureaus, Third Party Equipment Rentals, Association Meeting Planning.
We are looking forward to another successful event. Students from all schools are invited. If you are planning on attending, please RSVP to Sarah Foust at the information provided below.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact:
Sarah Foust
VP of Education
PCMA-UD Chapter
smfoust@udel.edu
PCMA Student Scholarship Application Deadlines!
Applications are due April 1st, 2007 for the following scholarships:
The Roy B. Evans scholarship, underwritten by the PCMA Education Foundation, is offering five qualified students a $5,000 tuition-based scholarship. This fantastic scholarship is not only the largest scholarship offered by PCMA, but it is also the only tuition based scholarship. The Roy B. Evans, Jr., CAE, Scholarship was established to honor the service and generosity of PCMA's former President and CEO, Roy B. Evans, Jr. Mr. Evans devoted 17 years of service and leadership to PCMA and to the meetings industry, serving as PCMA's President through 2000. During his many years as PCMA's chief staff officer, Mr. Evans strongly supported education and professional development for PCMA members.Scholarship applicants are considered based on academic record, hospitality work experience, current and planned involvement in the hospitality industry, recommendations by faculty and work supervisor, and PCMA involvement. To be considered, applicants must be current PCMA student members. For more information on PCMA membership, please visit www.pcma.org.
The PCMA Multicultural Student Scholarship is available to award funding to PCMA student members who have been traditionally underrepresented in the meetings/hospitality industry, especially, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, Native American, and African American/Black students who intend to pursue careers in the meetings/hospitality industry.
Up to five (5) deserving student members, have the opportunity to receive a $1,000 multicultural student scholarship to offset the expenses of tuition, textbooks, and other associated educational costs. The awards are based on need and candidates must be recommended by Faculty Members at the institution at which the student is enrolled.
Schools, states and provinces often have stringent or unusual guidelines for the administration of scholarships. Therefore, the local or state rules where the scholarship is being awarded will prevail. In other words, the faculty members must certify that they have adhered to all prevailing guidelines at their institutions.
The PCMA Education Foundation is sponsoring a scholarship to one student to plan a student seminar, and attend the 2008 PCMA Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington. This is an opportunity for a student member to join industry professionals and gain valuable experience that will prepare them for a career in the meetings profession.
The Student Planner Recipient Receives:
Complimentary airfare, registration, and housing (4 nights) to the 2008 PCMA Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington
$1,000 tuition based award, payment will be sent directly to institution and made payable to institution
Mentorship with a member of the Annual Meeting Program Committee to collaborate in planning session
Recognition at an Awards Ceremony at the Annual Meeting
The opportunity to network with PCMA staff and industry leaders and gain valuable experience
Roy B. Evans Scholarship
The Roy B. Evans scholarship, underwritten by the PCMA Education Foundation, is offering five qualified students a $5,000 tuition-based scholarship. This fantastic scholarship is not only the largest scholarship offered by PCMA, but it is also the only tuition based scholarship. The Roy B. Evans, Jr., CAE, Scholarship was established to honor the service and generosity of PCMA's former President and CEO, Roy B. Evans, Jr. Mr. Evans devoted 17 years of service and leadership to PCMA and to the meetings industry, serving as PCMA's President through 2000. During his many years as PCMA's chief staff officer, Mr. Evans strongly supported education and professional development for PCMA members.Scholarship applicants are considered based on academic record, hospitality work experience, current and planned involvement in the hospitality industry, recommendations by faculty and work supervisor, and PCMA involvement. To be considered, applicants must be current PCMA student members. For more information on PCMA membership, please visit www.pcma.org.
Multicultural Scholarship
The PCMA Multicultural Student Scholarship is available to award funding to PCMA student members who have been traditionally underrepresented in the meetings/hospitality industry, especially, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, Native American, and African American/Black students who intend to pursue careers in the meetings/hospitality industry.
Up to five (5) deserving student members, have the opportunity to receive a $1,000 multicultural student scholarship to offset the expenses of tuition, textbooks, and other associated educational costs. The awards are based on need and candidates must be recommended by Faculty Members at the institution at which the student is enrolled.
Schools, states and provinces often have stringent or unusual guidelines for the administration of scholarships. Therefore, the local or state rules where the scholarship is being awarded will prevail. In other words, the faculty members must certify that they have adhered to all prevailing guidelines at their institutions.
Student Planner of the Year Scholarship
The PCMA Education Foundation is sponsoring a scholarship to one student to plan a student seminar, and attend the 2008 PCMA Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington. This is an opportunity for a student member to join industry professionals and gain valuable experience that will prepare them for a career in the meetings profession.
The Student Planner Recipient Receives:
Complimentary airfare, registration, and housing (4 nights) to the 2008 PCMA Annual Meeting in Seattle, Washington
$1,000 tuition based award, payment will be sent directly to institution and made payable to institution
Mentorship with a member of the Annual Meeting Program Committee to collaborate in planning session
Recognition at an Awards Ceremony at the Annual Meeting
The opportunity to network with PCMA staff and industry leaders and gain valuable experience
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