Student Profile: Marc Kuder (BA '08)

Marc Kuder (BA '08) says that he came to The School for the variety that is offered to students "in terms of professional development, self-tailored curriculum, and networking opportunities."

It is safe to say that, indeed, he has seized every opportunity - from leadership in School events and clubs to extraordinary internships and from getting to know influential alumni to Study Abroad. Originally from Kalamazoo, MI, Marc has grown and evolved, and is looking forward to a career as a general manager in a "major city center hotel."

In fact, his internships (two in at the Aspen Meadows Resort in Colorado, and one at The Hilton New York) opened his eyes, required much teamwork, and made use of his creativity and his fluency in Spanish. He maintains that the responsibilities that his internship managers gave him helped him determine his plans after graduation, and that his Spartan Sponsors mentor, Alumnus Aaron Ide (BA '98), helped him immensely (Aaron is director of Front Office at The Hilton New York).

Marc has served in a variety of student leadership experiences, as well. As a sophomore he was reception supervisor for the black-tie Les Gourmets, where he observed upperclassmen coordinating this premier event with remarkable organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, and flair. As director of marketing for CAREER EXPO, The School's massive professional development day and career fair, he explored branding and advertising and contributed his inventiveness and creativity to the event. Now a senior, Marc is the chief operating officer of the Hospitality Association.

Study abroad tested Marc's independence, and he passed with flying colors. Studying hospitality management in England for six months, he knew no one when he arrived in the U.K., and was one of very few American students on an international campus. Marc maintains that the experience gave him a global perspective on education and on the history of lodging development in Europe.

Making use of its myriad opportunities, Marc credits The School with "providing me the resources to prepare for life after graduation. . . it is a launch pad for my career plans."