Hi all, I'm a high school junior and I'm exploring potential colleges for an event planning degree. Can you suggest some of the best colleges offering event planning programs? Additionally, I'd like to know more about the curriculum, internships, and overall college experience. Thank you!
Absolutely! When it comes to studying event planning, it's important to find a school with a strong program in hospitality management, as event planning often falls under this category. It's rare to find a degree in event planning specifically, so I'd suggest looking for hospitality management programs instead, so that you have a range of schools to choose from. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
1. Cornell University: Cornell's School of Hotel Administration is widely regarded as one of the best hospitality management programs in the world. Their curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including event planning, marketing, and food and beverage management. They also boast a strong alumni network, which can be extremely helpful when searching for internships and job opportunities.
2. New York University: NYU's Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Management with an event management concentration. The program emphasizes experiential learning, and students have access to numerous internship and networking opportunities within the thriving New York City events industry.
3. University of Nevada, Las Vegas: UNLV's William F. Harrah College of Hospitality offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a focus on event management. The program is strong in both theory and practice, and the school's proximity to Las Vegas allows for unique opportunities to gain hands-on experience in one of the world's leading event destinations.
4. Rosen College of Hospitality Management, University of Central Florida: The UCF Rosen College actually offers a Bachelor of Science specifically in Event Management, which could be a great fit for you if you know you want a program that focuses solely on event planning. Located in Orlando, students benefit from the area's robust hospitality and tourism industry, which can lead to internships with major companies like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
As for curriculum, expect coursework that covers topics such as event planning and coordination, venue selection, marketing, financial management, and guest experience. You'll likely also complete courses related to various types and aspects of events, from corporate to social and cultural.
Internships are a crucial part of the event planning college experience, as they'll allow you to gain real-world experience working in the field. Look for programs that emphasize hands-on learning and have strong connections with event planning agencies or local event venues. Networking will also be essential as you work towards your career goals, so choose a program with a strong alumni network and opportunities to attend industry conferences or events.
As far as the overall college experience, it's essential to find a school and location that you'll enjoy during your time there. Consider factors like campus size, student life, culture, and surrounding areas when making your decision. Visiting campuses and talking to current students or alumni can help you get a better sense of what it's like to attend each school and how their program aligns with your goals for personal growth, as well as your aspirations in the event planning industry.
Good luck on your college search, and with all the events you'll plan in the future!
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