MEET FEBRUARY ALUM OF THE MONTH: AVERY COLGAN ’12

  • AMHS

Shannon Reese

Feb 1 2019 8:49 AM

After graduating from AMHS in 2012, Avery went on to attend Washington State University where she graduated with a B.A. in Hospitality Business Management. She currently lives in Santa Barbara, California but moves frequently for her job. Since graduating college she has lived in Scottsdale, Arizona, Aspen, Colorado and now Santa Barbara. In her free time, Avery likes to go to the beach, play tennis, and spend time with family and friends.  

Meet February Alum of the Month: Avery Colgan ’12

After graduating from AMHS in 2012, Avery went on to attend Washington State University where she graduated with a B.A. in Hospitality Business Management. She currently lives in Santa Barbara, California but moves frequently for her job. Since graduating college she has lived in Scottsdale, Arizona, Aspen, Colorado and now Santa Barbara. In her free time, Avery likes to go to the beach, play tennis, and spend time with family and friends.  

What made you decide to major in Hospitality Business Management?

I grew up in the Hospitality industry and have always felt it was in my blood. WSU has a great program and it is a business degree as well, which allows more career options.

What type of jobs has this degree led to and what is your favorite part of working in this industry?

This degree has offers a lot of different career directions (hotels, Restaurants, tourism, events, etc.). I have been with Hillstone Restaurant Group since graduation and I am very happy with my decision. My favorite part of working in the hospitality industry is that it is something new every day. It is always evolving and always room for growth.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career thus far? 

The biggest challenge has been living away from family and friends. With Hillstone Restaurant Group you move a lot which can be scary at first. But if you take it on as an adventure the opportunities are endless.

What has been your proudest moment since high school?

My proudest moments since high school would probably be graduating college and promotions with my career.

What experience has changed your life and/or helped you grow?

My current restaurant is The Honor Bar in Montecito California and when the fires and mudslides happened last year we had to close and evacuate. Living in multiple hotels while opening and closing the restaurant six times was very stressful. Watching a community go through such tragedy was heartbreaking but being able to be the first restaurant open afterward and provide our guests with a sense of normalcy was very special. I grew significantly within my management skills as well as personally during this time.

What advice do you have for graduating alums?

Find you passion and run with it. Find something that allows you to learn something new every day.