aloha friday! . . . again ;)

Another end to the week with more numbers and analysis. James and I spent most of today finishing up estimates for 2007 rooms revenue forecast. Alot of it seems to be gaged with a combination of "gut feeling" and previous experience in the market. I've really enjoyed my internship and it has also really helped me see the value in my education. I understand now why you need to understand economics, statistics, IT, MIS, and many other topics that I've covered in school. Although I "knew" they would be useful later in life, I can see now how and where it is actually useful in the work place. Its also strange to be working with someone who has extensive industry experience but not the same academic background that I have, yet I'm still able to keep up fairly well. You may never get industry experience in the classroom, but you can sure get a lot of other things that will definitely help you later. Duh Leah! I know its obvious, but its cool to actually see it, rather than have someone tell you.

I've been emailing with my professor Dr.Umbreit, the Director of the WSU School of Hospitality Business Management, and I will be working for him this coming year. Dr.Umbreit, recruited me when I was 16 and been generous enough to help support most of my schooling. He also encouraged me to go into Revenue Management. I'm very eager to return to WSU and share what I've learned so far. He also mentioned that I might be helping him instruct his class Hospitality Operational Analysis. Dr.Umbreit is also continuing to work on creating a scholarship withone of Starwood's past CEOs aimed to support women seeking hospitality degrees. I began helping him with it two years ago, but hopefully I can continue to help him develop it.

I'm stoked! My family comes to visit me in exactly one week! I can't wait to show them around the island. We might even get to go to the Koloa Plantations Days celebration events, such as parade, market, or rodeo.

Parker Ranch Rodeo in Waimea, Hawaii (Big Island)