How to get the most out of your college experience: A real student’s path to success

Choosing a college and a major can feel overwhelming. With thousands of schools and programs available, it’s easy to wonder: How do I make the most out of my college experience – and set myself up for a great career?

To answer that, let’s follow the path of Ethan Kirk, a Bowling Green State University alumnus whose intentional choices led him to become an assistant general manager at just 20 years old.

1 Choose a program that aligns with your goals

This sounds simple, but it requires reflection:

  • What do you want to do after graduation?
  • Does your college or university offer a program that gets you there?
  • Will you gain the hands-on experience that employers expect?

For Ethan, the goal was clear: work in the resort, hospitality and attraction management industry.

After earning college credits in high school, he searched for a program that would give him a real advantage. He found that BGSU is the only university in the country offering a Bachelor of Science in Resort and Attraction Management, in addition to an exclusive partnership with Six Flags that provides direct access to internships, co-ops and industry mentors.

That alignment made his decision simple – and set the stage for everything that followed.

2 Get involved in your program and your field

College is full of opportunities, but getting involved in your industry can be a game-changer.

Through BGSU’s Resort and Attraction Management (RAAM) program, Ethan:

  • Built connections with leaders at Cedar Point Amusement Park, owned and operated by Six Flags Entertainment Corporation.
  • Participated in hands-on learning at the park.
  • Attended the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) conference to meet global industry leaders.

These experiences didn’t just expand his network – they opened doors to competitive co-ops and leadership opportunities.

Two employees help a customer at a service desk
Focusing on guest experience, management and supervisor roles, Ethan Kirk was able to prepare himself for a successful career. (BGSU photo/Haven Conn '22)

3 Take advantage of co-ops and internships

Co-ops and internships build confidence, skills and your resume. Employers notice real experience.

During his time at BGSU, Ethan completed three co-ops with Cedar Point:

  • Guest experience: Solving customer service issues and managing ticketing.
  • Workforce management: Scheduling over 1,200 associates.
  • Front desk supervisor: Leading teams and strengthening hospitality skills.

Each role helped him build a stronger, more versatile skill set and proved he was ready for leadership.

4 Be intentional with your time

Successful students don’t just show up – they actively prepare for their future. Ethan did this by earning certifications that boosted his resume, including:

  • ServSafe (food and alcohol handling)
  • CPR and AED training

He also worked up to 40 hours per week in front desk and management roles at local hotels. While not every student needs to balance that much, the experience helped him stand out.

“Ethan stood out for a few key reasons,” said Crystal Pierce, a senior recruiter for Drury Hotels. “His real-world experience and ability to adapt quickly were clear. His BGSU degree, combined with hands-on work, gave him a strong foundation for management and hospitality.”

5 Enjoy the rewards of your hard work

After graduating, Ethan completed Drury Hotels’ three-month manager-in-training program, mastering the fundamentals of hotel operations before stepping into leadership.

Today, he serves as the assistant general manager at the Drury Hotel in Mason, Ohio –a rare accomplishment at just 20 years old.

Your success story can start the same way

If you want to get the most out of your college experience:

  • Choose a program that matches your goals
  • Get involved
  • Pursue co-ops and internships
  • Be intentional with your time and choices

Ethan’s story shows what’s possible when you do.

A person poses for a picture inside a hotel lobby
After completing the manager-in-training program, Ethan Kirk was assigned the role of assistant general manager at a Drury Inn & Suites hotel. (BGSU photo/Haven Conn '22)

Updated: 07/28/2026 06:58PM