Kristin Nam

Hometown: Simsbury, CT

Current Location: Boston, MA

Why did you choose SHA?

I chose SHA due to my family’s legacy in the hotel industry. Both my dad and my uncle are executive chefs with decades of operational experience so I’ve grown up keen to this industry. I wanted to gain a well rounded experience of the city life as well as college life so I chose SHA to benefit from both the educational and the urban advantages.

What are some of your favorite BU memories?

My favorite memory was my study abroad experience in Sydney. The food was awesome, people were great, and the opportunities were tremendous. I worked as a sales intern at one of the most luxurious properties while enjoying some of the most creative courses that I took in college while having fun!

What was your first full-time job, and how did you end up in your current position?

My first full time job while in college was a guest services agent at the Westin Copley Place. This was an invaluable experience working in a fast-paced, flagship hotel property while juggling through school in my senior year. 6 months into my job, I was promoted to a supervisory role in the same property. Although I have moved on to administrating credit and collection, the experience on the front lines of the hotel as a GSA has equipped me with important skills such as customer service, time management, and interdepartmental communications.

Please describe your current role, and how your SHA education impacted your career?

I am an Accounting Manager at the Omni Parker House, the longest continuing luxury hotel in America. While pondering about continuing in front office operations or transitioning into an administrative role, Professor Kwag was a great mentor in giving keen insights and guidance in how I can prepare for a future MBA degree. I accepted Omni’s offer as a Finance Leader in Development in 2011. SHA has this great open door policy where whenever you walk through the 3rd floor, you can speak with professors with distinguished background who can give you great advices and connect you with people. The education is solid with variety of classes to choose from, high quality discussions, and rigorous learning.

Any advice for current and prospective students?

Take advantage of the city. There are lots of hotels and people in the industry you can meet and gain lots of experience from. Many properties may shy away from students due to the demand of schedule flexibility, but if you work hard and prove yourself, they will want to keep you and support you in your academics and career even before you graduate and apply for jobs.