Seven hospitality management students from the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus, accompanied by program director, Joseph Tormey, traveled to New York City on March 1-4 to attend the New York Restaurant Show at the Javits Center, which combines world-class education with industry-influencing demonstrations. Industry leaders delivered applicable business lessons and seminars, the latest information on market trends and best practices, and their opinions of what creates success.

The trip was funded by a CSUSB Instructional Related Activities Grant, and the trade show afforded numerous networking opportunities with industry professionals and peers.

The group visited iconic venues and attractions, including the Fraunces Tavern and Museum, the National Museum of the American Indian and La Nacional Spanish Benevolent Society, among many others.

PDC hospitality management students and faculty enjoy the sights in New York City.

Students expressed their feelings about the trip.

“I feel so lucky I got the opportunity to go to New York City with other CSUSB students. The trip not only expanded my knowledge, but also created lasting memories with my classmates. The city was full of vibrant energy, iconic landmarks and rich history. During the conference I also got to connect with chef Lex Grant who is the executive performance chef to the Dallas Mavericks, which was a huge highlight of the trip,” said Diego Rendon, sophomore.

“I learned that New York is a very diverse city with people from all around the world. It was fun getting to try new foods and dining in historic places such as having breakfast at Fraunces Tavern. I also really liked attending the New York Restaurant Show because it taught me about new food trends as well as new technologies that will become incorporated into the foodservice industry in the future. It was great having conversations with some of the vendors at the show because they gave me insight as to how the foodservice industry evolves. Overall, it was such a fun experience and I hope to return to New York in the near future,” said Alejandra Portillo, junior.

“Visiting New York was such a fun experience. I loved seeing the sights and famous landmarks of the city, but I think what I liked the most about the trip was becoming closer friends with the classmates that I went with,” said Sloan Swafford, senior.

“My recent New York trip was more than just an experience; it was a journey. The various cultural experiences, such as the 9/11 Memorial and Fraunces Tavern, were extremely inspirational. Every day we were treated to a culinary surprise; a few standouts included Dim Sum Palace, La Nacional and Arno. The New York Restaurant Show was extremely informative and beneficial,” said Mathew January, senior.

Visit the Hospitality Management Program website for more information about the program.

About PDC: The CSUSB Palm Desert Campus offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees, teaching credentials and certificates, and plays a vital role in educating the region’s growing population.

For more information about the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus, contact Mike Singer in the Office of Strategic Communication at msinger@csusb.edu or (760) 341-2883, ext. 78107, or visit the PDC website at www.csusb.edu/pdc.