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Preparing for the Future – Madison Hamilton

It’s a story we’ve all heard before: small class sizes, supportive professors, the opportunity to play collegiate sports – these were all the things that attracted Madison (Madi) Hamilton, ’21, to Meredith College.

And the College has definitely lived up to its promises, in Madi’s experience.

But there have been a few unique perks as well. Like having a softball coach who cared so deeply about her academic success that she set up a meeting with the head of the Nutrition Department during Madi’s first visit on campus. And having professors so invested in her professional development that they advocated on her behalf to be accepted into prestigious programs.

For example, Michael Altman, the head of the hospitality management program, has assisted Madi in finding internship opportunities, and was a driving force behind her getting involved in the Broyhill Business Fellows. “He had confidence in me and advocated for my acceptance into the program,” she said. She was also named the recipient of the Lois E. Frazier Academic Performance and Service Award, the top undergraduate award presented through the School of Business.

As one of the first students to graduate with a degree in hospitality management from Meredith, Madi has accomplished many things during her time here — including completing her MBA through Meredith’s 4+1 program.

One of the driving forces behind Madi’s decision to pursue an MBA was her involvement in internships. She had the opportunity to serve as a lodging intern at The Pearl, a 4-star Forbes-rated hotel located in her home state of Florida. “The experience impacted me in a lot of ways and I believe it prepared me for future opportunities,” she said.

After graduation, Madi began another internship with the only 5-star Forbes-rated hotel in the state of North Carolina: The Umstead Hotel & Spa. This opportunity led to a full-time position as the Sales and Catering Coordinator at the hotel.

Madi’s experiences support her longterm goal of potentially opening a restaurant or bakery. With a double major in hospitality management and nutrition, a minor in entrepreneurship, and an MBA, she’ll be well prepared to take on that challenge.
“I am incredibly thankful for everyone who has helped me be the best version of myself,” said Madi.