Hi Sunkissed Girlz! I'm Semone, the SKG Role Model of the Month for February!  I am currently a sophomore at Howard University, which is a Historically Black University (also called HBCU).  As president of the National Society of Minorities in Hospitality, I've had to find a balance between my extracurricular activities and my school work.  Does this sound familiar?  Hopefully my story will give you encouragement!

Q: In what grade did you start thinking about college?
A: I started thinking about college in probably around the 2nd or 3rd grade. Well, actually I started making the decision about what I wanted to do earlier than that. My mind has always been set that I'm going to college. I even knew back then that Howard University was my top choice.

Q: In what grade did you fill out the applications to attend college?
A: Junior year in high school.

Q: What is your major?
A: Hospitality Management.

Q: What kinds of jobs can you get with that degree?
A: There are many different career opportunities in hospitality. It's not just limited to working in hotels or to servicing people. You can do financial management, marketing, or accounting, for example. You can also be a manager in a hotel, restaurant, or vacation resort.

Q: And what are your future career goals?
A: I am interested in the restaurant and entertainment aspect of hospitality. If I choose the corporate route, I would like to be Executive Manager of a restaurant. If I choose the entrepreneurial route, I would like to open my own restaurant (in Florida) that includes entertainment on select days.

Q: Have you wanted to do this since you were a little girl?
A: When I was younger, I didn't know it was called 'hospitality'; but, I knew that I liked planning and coordinating events. I've always enjoyed being among people and bringing them happiness. For example, in elementary school I coordinated the 4th grade Black History Program which was a big success.