SPECIAL EVENTS & MEETINGS
Marissa Smeets
Class of 2018
Senior Special Events & Catering Manager,
Legends Hospitality at SoFi Stadium &
YouTube Theater
Marissa's Journey
My hospitality journey has been pretty exciting! It all started at the Collins job fair, where I landed my first internship with Legends, which really sparked my passion for sports and entertainment. I began in concessions at Angeles Stadium, then moved to the Coliseum, and spent a summer interning at the AT&T Stadium in Texas. After graduating, I got a chance to work as an event manager at the Hollywood Bowl through a connection I had made through Legends. Eventually, I achieved my goal of working at the SoFi Stadium, where I have grown from event coordinator to manager, and now I am a senior manager. It has been an amazing journey with plenty of chances to learn and grow.
In the Spotlight
How did a Collins College Degree help you in your career?
My Collins College degree has been a game-changer for my career. Looking at where I am now, it is a direct result of what I learned. Being involved in CMAA and getting real experience made a huge difference. I especially loved Mama Belle's food and cost control class; it taught me skills that I use all the time in my job today. The advisors like Carolina and James were also highly influential in helping me make decisions on my professional development. Plus, working in the RKR and in the kitchen gave me hands-on experience that actually came in handy many times in my professional and personal life.
What do you love about working in Hospitality?
I love working in hospitality because it comes with some pretty amazing perks. For instance, opening SoFi Stadium was a highlight - I got to be involved in planning some incredible events and see them up close. I've been part of the Super Bowl, witnessed huge Oscar parties, and even had the chance to watch Taylor Swift perform six nights in a row (though honestly, I could've watched a seventh!). It's a lot of fun and it never gets boring.
How would you convince someone that the field of hospitality management is for them?
Hospitality management is super versatile, which is one of the best features. There are so many different paths you can take within the field. I might not want to focus on events forever, but I know I can explore roles like finance, sales or project management. And it's not just limited to hotels and restaurants - you can find and expand opportunities in all kinds of companies and industries. If you like variety and the chance to move in different directions, hospitality will be a great fit.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
During my internship at AT&T Stadium in Texas I worked under Post Malone's dad.
Address
3801 West Temple Ave, Bldg. 79B
Pomona, CA 91768