Skal International Orlando launches Young Skal program

ORLANDO, Florida – Skal International Orlando has partnered with the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management to offer a distinctive level of membership to students aspiring to work in the travel and tourism industry. Seven Young Skal Members were inducted this year into Skal International Orlando, one of nine Skal Clubs in the United States with a Young Skal Program providing industry networking and mentoring.

Skal International Orlando’s Young Skal Program identifies highly accomplished students enrolled at UCF Rosen College who go through an interview and selection process with Skal Member Dr. Wilfried Iskat, Hospitality Administrator with the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, Skal International Orlando President Scott Tripoli and select board members.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our club to share our experiences with these student members and for them to energize our club,” said Scott Tripoli, President of Skal International Orlando. “I review quality candidates who I would hire myself. We are looking for the next generation of leadership for our club and for our industry,” added. Dr. Iskat.

Aaron Rask and Ana Maria Soto are two of seven Young Skal Members with Skal International Orlando who are reaping the benefits of membership and career preparation. “I love hearing the success stories and experiences of our seasoned members at the monthly meetings,” said Rask, a native of Minneapolis in the Army Reserves, who will be graduating from the UCF Master’s Program of Hospitality Management in December 2013. “What better platform to meet future employers and also have the opportunity to contribute creative new ideas and new strategies.” Rask is interested in global career options, perhaps in Germany, and aspires to work in front desk operations for a large hotel company.

Soto, a native of Bogota, Colombia who will graduate from UCF Rosen College in the summer of 2014, will further her hospitality studies in Vienna in 2014. “I love the fact that Skal in an international organization and is far reaching in what it has to offer. I have gained much advice and insight,” she said. “It’s also valuable to bring a new way of thinking to the club, as a Young Skal Member.” Soto wants to work in the lodging or cruise industry.

Skal International, the only international organization bringing together sectors of the travel and tourism industry while networking, conducting business and helping communities locally, nationally and internationally, was founded in Paris, France in 1932 by travel trade managers. From that modest beginning, Skal members now number more than 18,000 in over 450 clubs spread throughout 87 countries.

Skal International Orlando was voted Skal International Club of the Year 2006-2007 and North American Club of the Year in 2007. For more information, go to www.skalorlando.com. For membership information, contact Dennis BeMent, Membership Development Officer, Skal International Orlando, at [email protected].