Bio:

Senior graduating with a Dual Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management and Management Consulting and Analytics this May.

Event and Experience Management Minor

President of the Hospitality Management Association

Former President (current Secretary) of the Club Management Association of America Student Chapter at Virginia Tech

Member of Eta Sigma Delta

Undergraduate Teaching Assistant

Pamplin Ambassador

Zarah’s Thoughts:

Why did you choose HTM as a career?

The one thing I knew I wanted to be when I grew up was someone who would make other people smile. That's what hospitality is. It's such a fulfilling career as you get to make immediate and lasting impacts on people's lives.

Why did you choose Virginia Tech to study HTM?

Virginia Tech has such an incredible program. The biggest thing for me is its connection to the Pamplin College of Business. I am grateful for my education in finance, accounting, and other parts of business and learning how I can link it to what I am doing in HTM. When I chose to add my second degree, I didn't realize how much the two would overlap and how I could connection my analytics / management education with hospitality.

What does life after VT HTM look like for you?

After I graduate, I will be continuing my education at Virginia Tech in the MSBA-BA program. I've learned that hospitality is my passion and data analysis is my strength. I want to be able to combine the two in my future career. Business Analytics is a rising topic in the working world today. Although hospitality is often behind other industries, I can see the importance data plays.

Post graduation life/dreams and goals?

I've always been passionate about the private club industry. My hope for the long run is to work in a data analytics position within the hospitality industry (ideally in clubs). Most clubs do not have data positions yet, but I know this will continue to grow.

Advice for future students of VT HTM?

My advice for future HTM students is to ask questions and reach out! It is easy to get lost in the busyness of school but don't forget that your faculty, peers, and everyone in the industry is there to help you! Virginia Tech has great connections through its advisory boards as well as alumni – use it!

Fun Fact:

I am a passionate member of the Marching Virginians and was the captain of the Color Guard!