Student Experience

Dailany Echeverria

During my freshman year, a spark of curiosity led me to enroll in an Introduction to Hospitality course. That first semester immersed me in the captivating world of hospitality, and I fell in love with the industry, the culture, and the people. Discovering Dedman early in my college journey was a true blessing. It laid the foundation for extraordinary experiences and opportunities that have defined my time at FSU.

As a first-generation student, the idea of navigating college alone felt daunting, but Dedman’s remarkable faculty made all the difference. The remarkable faculty, with their unwavering support and genuine commitment to our success, equipped me with the confidence and tools to thrive. They make learning exciting, meaningful, and deeply impactful, especially in our Catering Management class. Serving as Executive Chef for my Little Dinner Series event allowed me to step behind the scenes of a restaurant and experience the magic of hospitality in action.

Thanks to the AVANCE Collective Scholarship, I had the privilege of studying abroad in Switzerland this summer and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I cannot recommend it enough, especially our program, which is truly magical and unlike any other. Dedman’s incredible connections have also put New Zealand on my radar, and I’m hoping to pursue an internship there after graduation.

Dedman has offered me countless opportunities to grow professionally, including a summer internship at Lost Tree, an exclusive private club, and a spring break internship at TPC Sawgrass during The Players Tournament. In addition to that, through the mentorship program, I connected with Jorge Rivera from Augusta National and even had the opportunity to interview for The Masters.

The heart of Dedman lies in its community, and holding leadership positions has opened doors I never imagined. As President of the Student Leadership Council, I’ve had the privilege of contributing directly to the growth and development of our school through close collaboration with the dean, faculty, and fellow student leaders. I also serve as President of our CMAA Student Chapter, where I’ve helped plan impactful events like Club Tours and attended unforgettable conferences that have shaped my professional journey. As Director of Events for Eta Sigma Delta, our honor society, I’ve had the honor of supporting and guiding future leaders. Being surrounded by such driven and passionate peers has created an environment of collaboration rather than competition, showing me the true spirit of hospitality. Dedman has shown me that hospitality is everywhere, and there’s a place for everyone to shine.

Reflecting on my journey with Dedman, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and joy. Dedman has gifted me a profound understanding of my calling and purpose, empowering me to pursue my dreams in ways I never imagined. It has equipped me not only with the knowledge and skills to thrive in hospitality but also with a strong sense of belonging, purpose, and community. I hope you find your home in Dedman as our doors are always open, and we’ll welcome you with open arms. Forever and always: Go Noles!

Scarlett Carson

Coming into college, I was like many other freshmen — uncertain about what I wanted to do with my life. At 18, I didn’t yet know what I was passionate about or what career path I wanted to follow, and that uncertainty was honestly terrifying. But, once I stepped foot into the Hospitality informational session at Freshman Orientation, I felt excited and hopeful about my future. I finally saw a path that aligned with who I am — someone who loves helping others, building relationships, and creating meaningful experiences.

Since starting my Global Club Management and Leadership classes, I’ve felt more motivated and inspired than ever. The topics we discuss, the skills we practice, and especially the guest speakers who come to share their stories have truly brought the hospitality industry to life for me. I make it a personal goal to introduce myself to every guest speaker we have. My friends often joke, “You always go to the lunches!” — and they’re right. I do. Those luncheons are some of my favorite parts of being in Dedman. They’ve given me the opportunity to meet incredible professionals, learn from their experiences, and create lasting relationships with both industry leaders and my professors. Each one has left a meaningful impact on me, reminding me that success in hospitality comes from curiosity, kindness, and connection.

What makes Dedman truly special, though, is the people. This college has given me a community of classmates, professors, and mentors who share the same drive and passion for serving others. Everyone here genuinely wants to see each other succeed — and that support has made all the difference in my college experience. The connections I’ve made at Dedman aren’t just for now; they’re lifelong. I know that when the time comes to take my next steps in my career, I’ll have a strong network of people I can reach out to — people who have been where I am and want to help me continue growing.

More than anything, Dedman has taught me what it means to lead with heart. Everyone in this college is here because we love creating experiences, helping others, and making memories that last. It’s not just about business — it’s about people. And that’s what makes hospitality so special.

Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come since that day at freshman orientation. I walked into college unsure of who I wanted to be, and through Dedman, I’ve found not only my career path but also a family that supports me every step of the way. The confidence, knowledge, and relationships I’ve gained here have shaped me into the person I am today — someone ready and excited to step into the hospitality industry and continue making a difference in people’s lives.

Faith Koeppel

Going into my sophomore year here at FSU, I was forced to pick a major. With no true vision of what I wanted to do, I decided to major in Hospitality and Tourism Management because surely, I would be able to find something I was passionate about in this major. That last statement came true quicker than I thought. After my first semester at the Dedman College of Hospitality, I felt refreshed, confident, and secure in myself and my decision.

What made me feel so confident in myself and my future was the professors and my classmates. Sitting in smaller classrooms again, while listening to a professor list off the ways they want to help you professionally was comforting and provided me much guidance whether that was through workshopping my resume or advice on internship applications. Not only did I connect with my professors better due to the smaller class size, but it also allowed me to develop deeper relationships with my peers. Each semester I do not have to worry about walking into my new classes because I know I will either find a good friend of mine or meet another driven outgoing individual who is eager to meet new people. I also enjoy meeting my fellow classmates because they all have different experiences and backgrounds in the industry, which has allowed me to learn from some of their mistakes and open my mind to foreign ideas. To me, this highlights the culture of the Dedman College of Hospitality because everyone is welcoming, wants to see you succeed, and is driven to make this industry better.

Finally, one of my most cherished memories from my time in college so far was partaking in one of Dedman’s many study abroad opportunities this past summer in Florence, Italy. The program in Florence is called Food and Wine in Tuscany, and it is just that! We spent half our time in local coffee factories, pasta classes, and gelato shops learning how to make each of those items. The other half of our time we went to a farm in the Tuscan countryside experiencing olive oil tastings, truffle hunting with dogs, and wine tastings. While each of these experiences was new and exciting, my favorite thing we did in class by far was family dinners. For family dinners we would split into four groups, and each group would make a different part of the meal. After we were done cooking, we would all sit around a table and enjoy each other’s food and company. We would laugh about the failed tiramisu or praise the group who made the perfectly cooked steak, but best of all we built connections with each other and memories that will last a lifetime. I am truly grateful for my study abroad experience and my time with the Dedman College of Hospitality so far.

Looking back, I can confidently say that Dedman is the best decision I have ever made on a whim.

Lauren Wilkey

Finding something you are passionate about and turning it into your studies and career path is the most valuable piece of advice I have to offer. This was the realization I had when I chose to join the Dedman College of Hospitality. Some could view a major in hospitality as a road less traveled, but to me, it changed the trajectory of my entire collegiate experience and opened a plethora of doors to opportunities and achievements I would have never experienced otherwise. Until I chose to turn my interest in serving others and forming meaningful customer relationships into my studies, I had never experienced such a passion for learning.

As a Global Club Management and Leadership major, I have been surrounded by peers who share the same drive and enthusiasm for people and service. I enrolled at FSU as an Exploratory major, lost and unsure of how to navigate the internal conflict between taking the path most students were taking and following what I truly wanted to do. Within the first few weeks of switching to Dedman, incredible opportunities I didn’t even know were possible for a college student began to arise. I was able to work The Masters and The Players Championship, which allowed me to chance to gain experience in my industry of passion- the private club and golf world. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy, through the Hospitality, Food, and Wine program, thanks to Dedman’s generous scholarship support. Through these experiences and the opportunity to serve as an ambassador for every career fair, which is also unique to our college, I have gained invaluable connections with industry professionals and hands-on experience that have shaped both my confidence and career goals.

While learning about the private club industry of hospitality in class, guest speakers visited almost every week and shared their experiences and insights as professionals in the field. I was inspired by the variety of routes a hospitality student could take after graduation—from beverage sales to club management and hospitality consulting—and realized the opportunities are endless. A career in hospitality is extremely promising, with the constant demand for people who possess strong interpersonal skills and a passion for exceptional service.

As a senior now, looking back, choosing the Dedman College of Hospitality was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The community, mentorship, and real-world experiences have given me not only an education but also a purpose. I’ve developed lifelong connections, discovered what truly motivates me, and gained the confidence to pursue a career where I can make meaningful impacts every day. Dedman has truly been the foundation for both my personal and professional growth.

Luke Askeland

Coming into the start of my freshman year, I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to study over the course of the next four years. I ended up selecting finance as my major simply because it was what all of my friends were doing. It didn't take long for me to come to the realization that it wasn't for me and that I needed to do some more research into the different areas of study Florida State has to offer. Declaring myself as an “Exploratory” major early in my sophomore year, I had officially committed to this research.

Taking every opportunity I had to go to informational sessions and industry panels, I eventually found the hospitality school, and something clicked. I have always been the kind of person who would go out of the way to try to make someone else's day better, so hospitality just made sense. After looking into the specific programs the Dedman School provides, I eventually landed on the Global Club Management and Leadership major. With my background working in private golf clubs and on privately owned yachts as a first mate, it just made sense.

Since I’ve arrived at Dedman, everything has only gone uphill. I now enjoy going to class because I’m learning about topics that I’m really passionate about. I also cannot speak highly enough about the faculty and staff at Dedman. Their commitment to us students is something that cannot be overlooked. They really care about our professional development, and you can tell through the numerous internship opportunities presented to us every day. They also include a high volume of guest speakers in their courses. These are professionals currently working in areas of business that we are pursuing, so being able to listen to each of their experiences and having the chance to pick their brains is simply invaluable.

The professional opportunities don’t just stop in the classroom. Dedman has so many student-organized clubs and organizations that allow students to really dive into their niche and network with other students looking to fulfill the same goals. I could never show how much gratitude I have for this college and what it has done to help make me the young professional I am today.

Cassie Sessler

As a transfer student from Tallahassee State College, I was intentional about choosing a major that would set me up for a successful career. Joining the Dedman College of Hospitality has far exceeded my expectations and stands out as the best decision I’ve made in my academic journey. I felt a deep sense of belonging by the faculty and students right from the start. I strongly value the professors, who are knowledgeable, approachable, and bring real world industry expertise into the classroom. Their guidance has been invaluable to my development.

The saying “you get what you give” truly reflects my journey in the Recreation and Tourism Management major. In my first semester, I had the opportunity to attend a networking conference that broadened my perspective on the many career paths available in the recreation, tourism, and hospitality industry. Attending this conference was a turning point for me, it inspired me to get more involved with Dedman College and to fully utilize the resources and opportunities offered, such as the annual Career and Internship Expo and engaging with esteemed guest speakers in class. I also joined the Recreation and Tourism Student Association (RTSA), which gave me the chance to connect with more students in my major. One memorable highlight was our trip to Dollywood, we got to meet the upper management team, get a behind the scenes tour, and spend a day enjoying the theme park. These experiences not only broadened my network, but also reaffirmed my choice of major.

Now, as I approach my senior year at FSU, I am truly grateful for the support and opportunities provided by Dedman College. These experiences have shaped my college journey and prepared me for a bright future in the industry.

Jackson Halliburton

Hi, my name is Jackson Halliburton, and I’m a senior in the Dedman College of Hospitality at Florida State University. I’m originally from Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, where I’ve spent most of my life. I’m currently pursuing a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, a field I’ve grown passionate about during my time at FSU.

Like many students, I entered college uncertain about which path to take. Fortunately, the exploratory route gave me the chance to discover my interest in hospitality. Once I found the Dedman College of Hospitality, everything clicked—and I haven’t looked back since.

For the past five summers, I’ve worked at the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, one of Florida’s premier private clubs. That experience allowed me to gain hands-on knowledge of the hospitality industry and solidified my desire to build a career in this field.

Last spring, I attended the Dedman College Career and Internship Expo, where I networked with industry professionals and secured an internship with Pacesetter Technology for that upcoming summer. This opportunity allowed me to expand my skill set and apply what I’ve learned in the classroom in a real-world setting.

Dedman has provided me with the tools, support, and opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. I feel confident and well-prepared to take the next step in my career and make an impact as a leader in the hospitality industry.

Kate Casey

When I arrived at Florida State three years ago, I faced my first year in college with immense uncertainty. As an exploratory student, I barely knew what classes I was taking the following semester, nonetheless what my future career would entail. As I sifted through the A-Z list of majors on the university website, I stumbled across the Hospitality and Tourism Management Major and decided to declare in the spring. This seemingly insignificant decision came to be the most pivotal decision of my college career. As it turned out, the Dedman College of Hospitality was everything I had been searching for and more. I am deeply fulfilled to have found a profession that provided me with the clarity I needed at such an uncertain time, as well as a profession that resonated with me so profoundly.

Throughout my time in Dedman, I have been fortunate to participate in experiences that have shaped my perspectives and career ambitions. The opportunity to study abroad in Switzerland stands out as one of the most impactful experiences. I have found that an appreciation for diverse cultures is an important part of hospitality as a whole, and this experience, along with my internship in Alaska, have helped prepare me for wherever my career takes me. In addition to this experience, I have taken part in Registered Student Organizations within the college, including the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and the Hospitality Student Leadership Council. These organizations have offered essential networking opportunities that have helped me gain experience both inside and outside of the classroom, equipping me with the tools to succeed as a hospitality professional.

Overall, the Dedman College of Hospitality extends beyond just the curriculum, providing invaluable lessons and connections that will propel me beyond gradation and into my future career. From professors who are genuinely invested in the success of every student, to the faculty who share endless advice and rich industry insights to the world of Hospitality, every part of this college champions its students towards success. The steadfast support of this unique college has instilled a foundational passion for service and a commitment to excellence within the global hospitality industry.

Ford Boock

When I first came to Florida State, I didn’t plan on majoring in hospitality, but after taking Intro to Hospitality as an elective, my outlook changed. I realized how much I enjoyed learning about an industry built around travel, people, and creating memorable experiences. Combined with my past work experiences and time abroad, I knew I had found something I was genuinely passionate about.

Since joining Dedman, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from professors who are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also deeply invested in their students’ success. Professors like Dr. Line, Dr. True, and Dr. McGinley have all been instrumental in helping me find opportunities, whether it’s internships, study abroad programs, or professional guidance. Their mentorship, along with Dedman’s strong network of industry connections, has truly helped to prepare me for the future.

This past summer, Dedman helped me secure an internship that gave me valuable hands-on experience in the hotel industry, which helped reaffirm my goal of working in an upscale hotel after graduating. Looking ahead, I’m hoping to participate in the college’s study abroad program in Montreux, Switzerland, and I’m very excited about the opportunity to be able to explore global hospitality and strengthen my understanding of the international side of the industry.

One of my favorite aspects of Dedman is how it constantly opens doors for students. Whether it’s the mentorship program, the career expos, or the endless internship opportunities, Dedman provides the tools and resources needed to prepare you for a successful future. The people here, both faculty and students, are passionate, motivated, and eager to help everyone succeed.

Dedman College of Hospitality has not only given me the foundation to succeed in the hospitality industry but has also inspired me to pursue my goals with confidence and curiosity. I’m proud to be part of a college that genuinely cares about its students and continues to shape future leaders in hospitality.