Becoming a Member

Students interested in joining the HTMT Student Advisory Board must have a minimum 3.3 GPA and submit an online application. The application period is currently closed, but interested students are encouraged to contact Kevin Ayres for more information at kmayres@hrsm.sc.edu.

Students selected for the board are required to attend three meetings per semester as well as one qualified event and one recruiting event per semester.

In addition to enhancing the student experience, board members receive written recommendations from faculty for their application portfolios, name tags and business cards.

2024-25 Student Advisory Board

• 

  Meredith Aase

  Bio: I chose the University of South Carolina's hospitality and tourism management program because of how well known it is for preparing students for their future careers in hospitality. The instructor reputation, experiential learning opportunities, and ability to begin taking major coursework in the first year is extremely beneficial to students.

  Dream Job: A full-time position in hotel/development

• 

  Josie Anaya

  Bio: I am from Rockaway Beach, N.Y., a small seaside town in a suburb of New York City. My major is hospitality management with a minor in advertising and public relations. My passion is food, whether it's dining out, cooking or shopping for it, visiting new restaurants, or sharing food experiences with friends and family. Upon graduation, my ideal job is one where I am able to share the beauty, elegance, and community of food with others.

  Dream Job: Working for a print and digital media company that connects with food lovers to share mouth-watering food-related content, trends, and the latest culinary developments

• 

  Max Hovious

  Bio:  I am a sophomore hospitality management student pursuing the HTMT club management concentration. I chose USC because of the reputation that the College of HRSM holds in the club management industry, and I want the best possible degree to go with my work experiences. I serve as an HRSM leader and a board member for the university’s CMAA student chapter to further complement my passion for learning about hospitality and the club industry.

  Dream Job: General manager at a top-tier private country club

• 

  Trevor Lazarus

  Bio: I am currently pursuing a degree in hospitality management with a minor in events management. My experience includes working at two Masters Tournaments in Augusta, Georgia, and broadening my international perspective through an internship at the Paris Olympics. Currently, I serve as a leader and ambassador for the College of HRSM, where I educate prospective students about our programs and assist with student and alumni events.

  Dream Job: A position with a luxury hotel brand, dedicated to creating unique experiences and events

• 

  Ayanna Marshall

  Bio: A sophomore pursuing a dual degree in tourism management and advertising. My passion lies in serving others and planning memorable events. I'm particularly interested in the intersection of tourism and marketing, as good marketing is essential for promoting top-notch hospitality services.

  Dream Job: A marketing and sales manager for a hotel or destination marketing organization that focuses on promoting the unique experience the destination has to offer

• 

  Julia McCarthy (Co-Chair)

  Bio: I am a senior hospitality management major and event management minor from Irmo, South Carolina only 20 minutes away from Columbia. When I first chose the University of South Carolina, I did not know what I wanted to do. I chose the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management and fell in love with the industry. It ended up being the best decision I have ever made. I have learned so much since attending this school from faculty and my fellow students.

  Dream Job: Working in events for a club or hotel

• 

  Kelsey McKnight

  Bio: I am a sophomore hospitality management major. I chose USC because when I toured it, I fell in love with the department and all the amazing opportunities and people. I knew USC was where my future was going to be. I have already had internships, certifications and opportunities to work in my field. I am also interested in studying abroad. I can’t wait to see where USC takes me in the next few years.

  Dream Job: Owning my own restaurant or resort

• 

  Savannah Miller (Co-Chair)

  Bio: When picking out what college I wanted to attend, it was the College of Hospitality and Tourism that made my decision super easy! This college has taught me so much and continues to push me to be a better person and student. I am so grateful for all the faculty, peers, and the opportunities I have been given to make my four years of college an amazing experience! 

  Dream Job: A full-time private event planner who focuses on special events

• 

  Madi Schnepfe (Head of Social Media)

  Bio:  I am an energetic and driven tourism management student from Frederick, Maryland.  I have gained experience working for a corporate and non-profit event planning firm in Bethesda, Maryland. I also work as a campus ambassador for many brands including Glow Recipe and Sol De Janeiro. I'm a member of Alpha Gamma Delta, HRSM Leaders & HRSM's social media intern.

  Dream Job:  An event planner working in experiential marketing

• 

  Gabrielle Walters

  Bio: I am a driven and enthusiastic student majoring in tourism management with a passion for club management and creating sustainable and unique travel experiences. As a dedicated student, I have already completed internships with prestigious golf clubs and plan on participating in the study abroad program my junior year to broaden my understanding of global tourism practices. I aspire to innovate the tourism industry by focusing on eco-friendly initiatives and cultural preservation.

  Dream Job: A position that allows me to travel, focus on creating unique experiences, and promote sustainability in tourism