Student Name: Joseph Jordan
Major/Program: Hospitality Business Management and Business
Internship Site: Hershey Lodge (Hershey Entertainment & Resorts)
Role/Title: Food & Beverage Intern
Semester/Year: Summer 2025
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2026

One Thing I learned:

During my time at Hershey Lodge, I gained firsthand experience managing restaurant and bar operations during high-volume guest traffic. I learned how to handle customer concerns, train new hires, and support shift transitions in a busy hospitality environment. One of the most valuable lessons was understanding how different departments collaborate to deliver seamless service in a full-service hotel setting.

One Thing I Didn’t Know Before This Internship

I was surprised by how much autonomy and leadership interns are given at Hershey Lodge. Rather than shadowing passively, I was immediately placed in situations where my decisions impacted operations. I also learned that many management-level decisions are made in real-time and require excellent communication across departments to be effective.

A Challenge I Faced

One of the biggest challenges I encountered was learning the restaurant’s POS and inventory systems, which I had little experience with prior to the internship. Initially, I felt behind during busy shifts where quick data entry was crucial. However, by asking questions, observing my team leads, and practicing during slower hours, I became more confident and efficient. Overcoming this challenge helped me grow technically and prepared me for a supervisory role in future positions.

One Fun Fact From My Experience

During one weekend, I had the chance to help manage a special event that hosted over 500 guests at once. It was intense, but also exhilarating to see everything come together smoothly—from food running and bar service to guest satisfaction. It reminded me why I love the energy and excitement of the hospitality industry.

Advice for Future Interns

Be proactive and don’t be afraid to ask questions early. The more engaged you are, the more you’ll learn and the more your supervisors will trust you with important responsibilities. Also, treat every shift like a learning opportunity—even when you’re tired, because the habits and skills you build now will carry you into management and beyond.