Just a little over a year ago, we began sharing monthly articles featuring a variety of topics about the tourism and hospitality industry and our first article put the spotlight on one of our alums who has been enjoying an exciting career in hospitality. We felt it was the perfect time to introduce an outstanding pending grad who is preparing to join the ranks of Purdue Global alumni very soon.

Steven O’hern is currently finishing his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Hospitality Sustainability and was delighted to share his experience by answering some questions about his interest in this degree and plans for the future in the hospitality industry.

What is your program of study as it relates to hospitality, tourism and events and why did you choose it? Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Hospitality Sustainability. I have worked in the hospitality industry for over 28 years. Over that time, I have worked at properties that have improved their sustainable efforts. I want to do more. In our industry, there are numerous ways to increase sustainability, and I want to lead an organization with my experience.

Which courses do you feel will prepare you best for your hospitality, tourism or event career and why? TH311 Sustainable Hospitality Management and MT313 Corporate Sustainability and Social Responsibility. Both of these courses focus on achieving sustainability from all perspectives, including environmental, social, and economic. These courses have inspired me to be more sustainable in my work and personal life.

What is your current job/work and what is most rewarding about it? General Manager of a Resort in Southern Vermont. This was a property that had been shut down for over three years. It is gratifying to see the property grow from the moment the doors open. It is also advantageous to know that the team works together to develop sustainable practices at the resort.

Who has influenced your career path and how did they support you? My wife has been a tremendous influence on my career. She has always pushed me to go further. She has always seen my potential. She encourages me to take the next step, even if it means moving numerous times to advance in my career.

 What advice would you give to someone who is interested in working in hospitality, tourism or event planning? The hospitality field is an exciting industry that allows you to travel and work in various areas. Work hard, and when you find an area of the industry that you love, stick with it.

What is your "Dream Job" and what is the path you plan to take to get there? My dream job is to serve as the Vice President of Operations for a luxury hotel brand. My career has allowed me to work in some of the best properties in the US. Completing my degree will open more opportunities. The last three properties that I have managed have taught me valuable knowledge that I can apply as a Vice President of Operations.

What else would you like to share with students who are interested in working in this industry? This industry is fun. You meet so many people, and you never know who might be able to help you along the way. Never burn a bridge. Always maintain good standing with all your past employers; you never know when you may work for them again.

We’d like to thank Steven for allowing us to shine the spotlight on him and appreciate the valuable insight he has shared with us. It has been a pleasure having Steven in our classrooms sharing his knowledge and expertise as well as inspiring classmates to pursue this industry. We hope that others who are thinking of adding Hospitality and Sustainability Concentration as well as considering work in the tourism industry will see there are rewarding opportunities. We wish Steven great success in all his future endeavors and look forward to hearing about where his journey takes him next.

TH Course leads:

Mimi Gough (mgough@purdueglobal.edu)

Julie Dort (jdort@purdueglobal.edu)