Name: Taylor Medina
Job: Sales Coordinator, Axiom Hotel
Hometown: San Francisco
Education: B.S. in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism with a concentration in Event Management, San Francisco State University
Q: Describe your path working in the tourism field.
When I transferred to San Francisco State University from community college, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I chose Recreation, Parks, and Tourism (RPT) because I was interested in event management. After volunteering for Superbowl 50, I was hooked! From there, I have worked in catering, restaurants, a destination management company, wedding planning, and lots of on-site event volunteering. I enjoyed each of these jobs, but it wasn’t until I started working for a hotel that things finally clicked into place and I realized, “This is it!”
Q: What made you want to enter the travel and tourism industry?
My mentors really inspired me and helped me on this path. I had a great Event Management professor at SFSU who really pushed me to work hard and to connect with other industry professionals. She expected the very best out of me, and I earned her respect and approval after many all-night study sessions filled with tears and no sleep. An older SFSU alum took me under her wing and really provided me with the opportunities to learn about what it takes to own your own business and be your own motivator. I was so lucky to have these strong women leaders guide me and show me what was possible in my future.
Taylor won the Team Member of the Quarter Award at Axiom Hotel, for Q1 2018.
Q: What do you like most about working in travel and tourism?
There’s never a dull moment, something is always going on. It definitely keeps me on my toes, and I get to experience new and exciting tasks each day. I love connecting with our clients and having the chance to make them proud and confident of the services we provide. Their happiness makes me happy.
Q: What were the most valuable parts of your education?
Being a part of the RPT program at SFSU was invaluable, due to the amazing faculty and major requirements. Prior to my internship, I had to complete 400 hours of volunteer work related to event management. This allowed me to explore many different aspects of the industry, and learn so much along the way. It helped me “broaden my horizons,” as mom and dad would say.
Q: What are your goals in the industry?
I want to move out of San Francisco within the next couple of years to continue my career in hotel sales. I eventually want to get back into wedding planning and maybe start my own business in event management.
Q: Who have been the biggest supporters of your career?
Everyone in my life. My family has always supported me, even if I have to work late or miss a dinner when the family is in town. The entire Axiom team has encouraged me to grow and excel in my role. Our director of sales and marketing is such an amazing leader and has been a huge part of my career growth, I wouldn’t be where I am without him. A few of my friends also work in the industry and it’s nice to support each other and grow together.
