FSU Art BA ’15 Lauren Schwec Interns with Hotel Duval.

From Lauren: This spring semester I was offered the opportunity to intern for Sarah Kilgore, the head of Marketing at Hotel Duval here in Tallahassee, FL. In this position I assisted in managing social media accounts for Hotel Duval, LeRoc Bistro, Level 8 Lounge, and Shulas 347 Grill, as well as market the company via website and advertising weekly. Additionally we meet bi-weekly with the entire Hotel Duval management team to organize events and coordinate. I have immensely enjoyed working and meeting the entire Hotel Duval team.

My favorite part of this experience thus far has been taking the photographs for their events, websites and brochures. During this time I have been able to practice my photography skills in a nurturing environment. Furthermore I have been applying my InDesign skill set to create things such as: elevator advertisements, information cards and menus. Working in a fast paced  world where events are constantly being scheduled it has been instructive for me to have to work under pressure but still create work with value by practicing time management.

Over these past few weeks during this experience I have discovered my love for photography and that I now realize I identify as a Food Visionary. Having been able to work at a hotel that is known for it’s aesthetics and design—being part of the Marriot Autograph Collection—I have been given the opportunity to observe the interior and exterior design of the hotel at a detailed degree. I have learned to recognize and appreciate the flow of a room that architecture and furniture can create as well as hinder.

I recommend this internship to any student who wants to work in a creative, stimulating learning environment. Overall it has been a positive experience that has taught me how my knowledge of art can be applied to any working experience. Moreover it has shown me the value of relationships and how a positive work environment cultivates creativity.