Abigail Stelter is a Hospitality and Tourism Management major with a Business Management minor from Mankato, Minnesota. Abigail is also pursuing an Applied Workplace Leadership certificate. She anticipates graduating in May 2023.
How did you decide your major/minor?
When I was younger I watched The Food Networks program “Cupcake Wars” and fell in love with baking that I later sought out a job in a bakery. My original idea for college was to pursue a degree in Baking and Pastry, but during college research, I found the Hospitality Management Major. This program appealed more to me because it incorporated studies of administration in tourism, hotels, and restaurants while providing fundamentals of baking and cooking. I will be majoring in Hospitality Management with an emphasis in Lodging and Tourism, a minor in Management, and a certificate in Applied Workplace Leadership.
What's an example of a cool, interesting, or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?
I personally think almost everything I have done as part of my major is very exciting and helpful for my success in the program. From running our own cafe, planning and serving a five-course meal, to getting managers food safety certified, taking a bar and beverage course, and everything in between.
What are you involved in on- and off-campus and what has been the most rewarding experience?
I am a Leadership Scholar which means I get to help and facilitate the Presidential Scholarship Competition, I also was able to join the Northern Nights event as a panelist and share my journey at NMU. I am involved with a couple of organizations including SLFP, The NMU Hospitality club, and the Special Events Committee. I first joined the NMU Hospitality club and got involved on the marketing committee freshmen year, then worked my way to leading the club as president this past year. I recently took over a new role at the Center for Student Enrichment as Special Events Coordinator and will be planning Homecoming and Winterfest with the help of the Special Events Committee.
What are your plans after graduation?
I anticipate graduating in May 2023 with leadership and management experience to enter the workforce with a well-developed curriculum vitae. After college, I want to travel and learn about food and hospitality around the world, I would love to work for a year or two on a cruise ship and run events on board. It will be my goal to work in management and continue challenging myself and growing to hopefully land a career as director of banquets or events at a resort or event center.
