Madison Skornicka is a 2016 International Gold & Silver Plate Society stipend recipient. She attends Michigan State University and is majoring in Hospitality Business. Find out what she had to say when we asked her a few questions about her foodservice stipend and future career.
What is your major & what made you decide on it?
My major is Hospitality Business. I decided on hospitality business because I love to curate experiences for others through sharing food and service. The hospitality industry provides the space to do this work.
How has your stipend enabled you to pursue a career in foodservice?
My stipend will enable me to travel more in my next internship by helping with living and travel expenses. My internship will be a rotational position within the Food and Beverage department at Roberts Restaurant Group located in the Metro Detroit area. This internship is going to expand my current knowledge of the restaurant industry by allowing me to work at multiple restaurants and learn under general mangers, experiences which I will apply to my future career.
What was your first job in foodservice?
My first job was doing Food Preparation & Service at A.M. Fritz Foodservices (MSU Management Education Center) in Troy, MI during the Summer of 2015. I gained insight into multiple aspects of the food and beverage industry by assisting head chefs in food preparation, setting up and cleaning dining halls, and serving guests.
What would you say is your "dream job" after you graduate?
My dream job is to be running my own successful restaurant and vineyard in Northern California.
What have you learned that you will apply to a career in foodservice?
I have learned that I have to be passionate and focused on my work in this industry because it is a people’s business. I always focus my energies on providing a positive demeanor because foodservice is a reciprocal relationship and emotions are contagious. I apply this understanding to my internships and management positions with Les Gourmets, CAREER EXPO, and Club Manager’s Association of America (CMAA).
Do you have mentor? How have they helped you?
My mentor, Gary Hernbroth, is the owner of Training for Winners, a company that provides leadership training for upper management and hoteliers. Gary has helped me to professionalize my resume and LinkedIn profile, introduced me to industry leaders, and has given me suggestions on my career path.
What is your favorite meal?
Thanksgiving Dinner is my favorite.
What companies have you worked at for internships?
I completed my first internship during the Summer of 2016 at Bay Harbor Yacht Club in Bay Harbor, Michigan.
About the IFMA Education Foundation:
The IFMA Education Foundation promotes the next generation of foodservice leaders. The Foundation is committed to give 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.
Do you want to support the next generation of foodservice by making a donation to IFMA's Education Foundation?
Contact us at ifma@ifmaworld.com.