Stories: Stephanie Campos – Dallas College

What skills or knowledge did you learn throughout the program that you found most useful in your career?

The meetings and hospitality industry is very broad, and the HEEM program provides students with the basic knowledge for almost every path available to them. This is very useful when still trying to figure out life after college.

What advice do you have for students as they look for future careers or future programs to apply to?

Join the HEEM Club! This is a great first steppingstone to get the experience you will need for your cv and most importantly to start networking with industry professionals.

What has your typical role on a team been?

I'm the get-it-done person. As the Client Success Manager for my show, I oversee all sponsorship programs for the Vitafoods events and 365 content platform. This means I must constantly liaise with other teams to get things done on time and at excellent standards, so I get to dip my toes in different waters and wear different hats. Every day is fun because I tackle different tasks and work with different teams, which also makes me a source of knowledge and my teammates come my way when they need help.

What is the most challenging part of your work?

COVID-19 catalyzed the digital transformation of events. It's been a challenge to adapt to new tools, platforms, teams, etc, and most importantly, it's been a challenge to educate exhibitors as we go and manage their expectations.

What is the most rewarding part of your work?

There are many rewarding moments when you work in exhibitions. My favorite is getting to know exhibitors and sponsors in person after months of collaborative work over e-mails and calls. It's great when they are happy, because you made that happen!

Kianna, Vaughn

Human Resources

“My dream job is to work in HR for the Dallas Mavericks.”

Human Resources Management

Tondelaya Cannon

Facility Specialist AT&T Communications Inc.

“Taking online classes has been a tremendous help to me in achieving my educational goals. I already had a full plate, but with online classes I am able to work on my assignments any time of the day. It gives me the freedom I need to be able to maintain my family life and my academic endeavors.”

Business and Management

Karen Guenther

Compliance Inspector Texas State Board of Pharmacy

“With my travel schedule it’s really hard to be in a classroom, and even when I’m in town my work hours are erratic. The strong point of taking courses online is the flexibility and freedom. I can just log on and do my homework at home or on the road in a hotel.”

Accounting

Sharon D. Gray

Network Operations Manager AT&T Mobility

“I’ve learned that it’s never too late for your dreams to come true — you just have to keep pushing. With patience and determination, hard work will pay off. It just takes getting started. Going back to school was definitely one of the best choices I’ve made in my life, and I’m starting to see it pay off.”