Aglika impresses in the States with Futures Fund help

Aglika Staneva (second from left) with colleagues at the JW Marriott Hotel in Texas.

The opportunity to intern stateside for one of the world’s largest hotel groups is a rare, potentially life changing opportunity for any student with a passion for hospitality.

But for Aglika Staneva, this dream became a reality with help from the Futures Fund.

The BA Business and Management student has been spending a year in Austin, Texas at the JW Marriott Hotel, developing her skills in a whole host of areas.

Upon her arrival, Aglika was thrust straight into the heart of operations at the gargantuan, 1,000 room complex, working to answer any queries, complaints and requests guests had. She was given different jobs throughout her time to ensure she received an insight into every aspect of the hotel.

The trip would not have been possible without the financial support Aglika received from the Futures Fund, which helped her fund the considerable costs that accumulate during a trip to the United States.

She said: “The initial first months were difficult because of the large amount of costs associated with flights, visa, and start ups. This is where the Futures Fund monetary assistance came in very handy.”

As with many students who make a move another continent, Aglika’s greatest challenge was leaving behind her friends and family. However, she admitted that the trip had helped her to grow hugely and that she had a made a host of new friends and contacts as a result of the internship.

“I must admit it took some time for me to move forward and to continue my personal development, but it was totally worth it,” she added.

“Over the course of this past year, I’ve made numerous friends from all over the globe and created lasting memories.”

Recently, Aglika’s proficiency working in the Executive Lounge earned her a promotion to Team Leader, giving her extra responsibility and allowing her to further develop her management skills.

She explained: “Being a Team Leader has taught me how to manage both my time and the attendant, how to be able to communicate with different individuals in a professional environment, as well as how to train and motivate various employees.”

Aglika’s time with JW Marriot has been hugely rewarding, and she will leave Austin with experience in a range of different areas, an array of new connections and a desire to pursue a career in hospitality.

She concluded: “I would like to thank the Futures Fund and it’s donors for helping me make my dream come true.

“This past year has been a great challenge and a once-in-a-lifetime gift. It’s helped me to grow tremendously both personally and professionally.”

Article written by Matthew Shevlin, University of Sunderland Journalism graduate.