Lizzy Pearlman is a 2019 International Gold & Silver Plate Society stipend recipient. She attends the Penn State University and is majoring in Hospitality Management. Find out what she had to say when we asked her a few questions about her foodservice stipend and future career.
Lizzy Pearlman, Penn State University
What is your major & what made you decide on it?
I am currently pursing a degree in Hospitality Management with the intent of using my degree to be a professional in the restaurant industry. From a young age, I have wanted to be in the hospitality field due to the fact that I have a passion of service to others. Upon beginning classes about hospitality management while also gaining hands on experience with foodservice jobs, I have developed a love and appreciation for all factors that cultivate the restaurant sector of hospitality.
How has your scholarship enabled you to pursue a career in foodservice?
The IFMA stipend has allowed me to worry less about the costs that I will endure while getting my degree while also enabling me to focus on investing in my professional growth outside of a classroom setting.
What was your first job in foodservice?
I received my first job in foodservice at the age of fourteen when I spent my summer working concessions at the Altoona Curve in Altoona, PA. During this time, I was able to operate different types of concessions as well as gain some experience in food safety as well as food preparation.
What would you say is your "dream job" after you graduate?
My dream job is to be a General Manager or a Franchisee of a restaurant.
What have you learned that you will apply to a career in foodservice?
I think that the most important thing that I have learned that will allow me to continuously be successful in the hospitality industry is that if the passion and the drive are present, the rest will come along naturally.
What are some of the challenges students like you face in today's world of foodservice?
One of the biggest challenges in today's world of foodservice is that this industry is always changing and adapting to the world around us. Whether it be due to technological advances or the evolving desires of the consumers, students like myself are always having to learn how to adjust business models or internal structures to continuously ensure that we are able to deliver a quality experience to our guests.
Do you have a mentor? How have they helped you?
I would definitely say that I have two big mentors in my life and they are my parents. My parents have encouraged me from a young age that hard work has big rewards. Without their continuous support, I would never have had the courage to be ambitious and to make my dreams a reality.
What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal is taco stuffed shells with cornbread casserole.
What companies have you worked at for internships?
This past spring, I participated in the Disney College Program as a Quick Service Food & Beverage Cast Member.
About The IFMA Education Foundation
The IFMA Education Foundation promotes the next generation of foodservice leaders. The Foundation is committed to giving qualified culinary, marketing or food science students support toward completion of education requirements. Over the years, we've accomplished our goal by providing scholarships, publications, educational programs, internships and stipends to accredited institutions and individuals enrolled in accredited institutions.
How to help the next generation of foodservice!
- Support the IFMA Education Foundation by making a donation.
- Contact us at IFMA@IFMAworld.com.