Four years ago, boredom was the main factor that led Sabrina Paige back to school to pursue her MBA. “I wasn’t occupied enough,” she says. “I wanted to learn more, do more, and be intellectually challenged in new ways.” With an undergraduate degree in human resources, Paige took a part-time hotel job while studying entrepreneurship at Post University. The part-time gig quickly turned into a full-time supervisory position. Now, the dynamic 25-year-old is a general manager with Island Hospitality at the Homewood Suites by Hilton in Farmington, Connecticut. She accepted the promotion before finishing her MBA in the summer of 2013.
Career Goals
Within 3-5 years, I’d like to increase my role in the company to an area director position and oversee a portfolio of hotels in a region. That would let me apply my experience to ensure profits and market shares are following an upward trend.
10-Year Plan
I’d like to travel much more with my work and continue to rise to the top level of an organization.
Dream Job
Somewhere I can gain international experience. I would love to be a director of hotel operations for a global brand very much like Hilton. It would involve local hotel visits and the chance to do due diligence before acquisitions. I find that part of our industry especially exciting.
Education
MBA, Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies
Post University, 2013
BS, Business Management & Organization: Concentration in HR
Central Connecticut State University, 2010
Work Experience
2013–present
General Manager, Island Hospitality
Management
Homewood Suites, Farmington, Connecticut
2012–2013
Director of Sales
Wyndham Worldwide Corp.
2012–2013
Sales Manager
Hilton Worldwide
2011–2012
Front Desk GSR
Red Roof Inns
2010-2011
Help Desk Representative
Computer Systems Integration
Role Models
Every terrible boss I’ve ever had is a mentor because I’ve learned what not to do. My current boss is a fantastic mentor and impresses me often by his ability to say something very blunt that communicates exactly what is on his mind. It’s never offensive because he is working toward the goals of the hotel or a portfolio.
Industry Pulse
The industry is finally back up from the market crash of 2008, and I foresee large strides by corporations to expand, which will in turn allow us to capture that market growth.
Define Success
During my MBA, I defined success as making more and more money, but I have come to the conclusion that the goal of money is irrelevant. Right now, as long as I can come happily to work every day, and still have time for family and my hobbies, then I’m successful.
Post University
Post University is located in Waterbury, Connecticut. Its MBA degree in entrepreneurship is a comprehensive, 45-credit-hour program taught by industry professionals who aim to prepare students for all aspects of the business world.
