Mike O'Connor

First hospitality job:

My first job was as a server and bartender at Fern resort just outside of Orillia.

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Age you started working in hospitality:

18

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Your inspiration to begin working in hospitality:

My family went on summer holidays and we stayed at hotels and ate at restaurants. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and energy of the people that took care of us.

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My hospitality mentor:

Robert Downing was the owner of Fern resort and he was very interested in the staff and how he could help them with his experience.

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What are your favourite aspects of your job?

Meeting people, making guests and staff happy. There are always new opportunities to learn and grow.

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What has inspired you to continue your career path in hospitality?

The people, the opportunities, each day is never the same and the fact that I am still learning!

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Advice for students interested in a career in hospitality:

Do your due diligence to find out what opportunities are available and that your interests, skill sets, and goals match the jobs you are interested in.