Hospitality at Its Finest

“I chose NYIT because it was a great opportunity for me to study in the heart of New York City,” says Gabriella Veltri, who received her bachelor’s degree in 2017. “I knew NYIT would give me so many opportunities in internships and also jumpstarting my career once I graduated.”

The Westchester County native was not disappointed. Veltri credits Robert Koenig, Ed.D., associate professor and chair of Hospitality Management, with helping her secure an internship at the InterContinental New York Barclay. “I interned at the hotel for six months, and soon after I graduated I was offered a full-time position as a catering coordinator,” she says. “From there, I have grown to become the executive meeting manager. I am the youngest manager at the property.” In addition to her full-time job, Veltri is completing her M.B.A. in marketing at NYIT and expects to graduate this fall. When she’s not studying or working, she can be found judging competitive cheerleading around New York State.

As an undergraduate, Veltri took advantage of activities that would bolster her experience in the hospitality industry. She served as vice president of the Society of Hosteurs and the Professional Convention Management Association. Both experiences, she says, helped her to build the leadership and management skills she uses today. Veltri also points to Assistant Professor James Henry Dunne, J.D., M.A., as an influence. “From learning how to dress professionally in Dr. Koenig’s class to learning customer service skills and menu design in Dr. Dunne’s class, they have truly touched my life, and I will never forget the lessons they have taught me at NYIT,” she says.

Because of her internship, Veltri felt right at home when she moved into her full-time position at the Barclay. “There is always something new waiting to happen at the hotel, and I love every second of it,” she notes.