Graduate Spotlight: Lessons in Event Management Will Help With A Career In Emergency Preparedness
Before she even started at SUNY Schenectady, learning how large-scale events are organized (hint: The Kentucky Derby), Lydia Hulbert already knew how to get things done for a crowd. As the 7th of 11 siblings, she was helping her mother in the kitchen or getting everyone together to go somewhere. She will graduate with her A.A.S. degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management and this fall, Lydia will broaden her knowledge of logistics even more when she transfers to the University at Albany for her bachelor’s degree in Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security, and Cybersecurity.
Lydia has completed six internships during her two years at the College: working at the Kentucky Derby twice, running buffets and other front-of house operations serving people from around the world, and assisting Mazzone Hospitality, the New York State Tourism Industry (NYSTIA), and the New York State Brewers Association (twice) with their events. She decided to shift her focus to disaster relief because she has always loved serving people. She sees it as an extension of what she has already learned – coordination and logistics.
A member of Meeting Professionals International, Lydia works two part-time jobs in retail and teaches ballet and tap at a local dance studio while going to school full time.
Career Goals: Going to places that have had disasters and coordinating volunteers, equipment, and resources.
What are you excited about in the future? “I’m looking forward to trying something
new. I’m excited and ready to take the next step and see where God takes me.”