My Internship

What have I observed?: Having the oppertunity to rotate within different departments of the hotel I’ve realized how interconnected every team is. Sales, marketing, finance, and operations all work hand in hand to ensure a seamless guest experience. Whether it’s coordinating a restaurant campaign, planning a promotional event, or finalizing billing details for a large group stay, collaboration is at the heart of everything. Everyone is willing to teach and involve me in different projects, making sure I gain a well-rounded understanding of how the hotel operates.  

How is this similar to my ideal workplace culture?: This environment reflects exactly the kind of workplace culture I hope to be a part of in the future. When one department succeeds, they bring others along, ensuring that every team benefits and contributes. Whether it’s marketing collaborating with the restaurant team to promote a special event or accounting working with sales to ensure financial accuracy, there’s a true sense of teamwork and shared success. It makes the workplace feel less like a job and more like a community. 

What has surprised me?: How much everyone truly cares! On my first day, my mentor made me a welcome bag that had various items in it, which I thought was so sweet. One of my next days I sat with someone on my team and we researched items we could find to make little appreciation gifts for the people that we work closely with in other departments to show them that we appreciate the hard work they do.

How often do employees work together?: While much of the work is done individually, collaboration is always encouraged. Whenever a team member has a question or needs assistance, they never hesitate to ask, and they’re always met with support and helpful responses. There’s a culture of openness where learning is valued, and no one is judged for seeking guidance. It creates a comfortable and motivating environment where everyone can grow and succeed together.

Feedback and Collaboration?: Even though many tasks are independent, teamwork is still a key part of the daily routine. Each morning, the team holds a meeting to discuss upcoming hotel events and individual responsibilities for the day. These meetings not only keep everyone informed but also build a sense of connection—especially with the fun trivia question that wraps things up! Beyond that, my mentor sets aside time to meet with anyone who wants to ask questions or receive feedback, which has been incredibly valuable. The entire team actively supports one another, ensuring that no one feels stuck or alone in their work. 

Do I feel like I am a part of the team?: Absolutely—100%! From the very beginning, the JW team has made me feel welcome. They encourage me to ask as many questions as I need and have given me the opportunity to work closely with almost every department. Whether I’m assisting with financial processes, shadowing the marketing team, or helping with creative projects, I’ve felt like a valued part of the team. I’m so grateful to be surrounded by such an amazing and supportive group of people who genuinely care about my learning experience.