A Determined NYU Freshman’s Expensive Weekend Work Travels
Despite what it may seem, an NYU freshman is not jetting off to sunny Florida for leisurely weekends but rather for professional growth opportunities.
Vincent Campanaro, a college student from the Big Apple, is investing a significant amount to travel to Florida every weekend to intern at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. He estimates that this commitment will cost him over $10,000 in travel expenses by the time his six-month internship concludes next month.
Discussing his travel expenses on Fox Business, Campanaro mentioned that the costs are around $500 per week, which can be quite challenging when considering the pricey nature of Naples. He shared instances where he had to improvise due to flight price fluctuations, leading to scenarios like sleeping at the airport or booking last-minute flights.
His weekly routine involves flying out of New York after finishing his Friday classes at 12:15 p.m. and returning to his dormitory late on Sunday after departing Florida around 9 p.m.
Campanaro expressed that the internship market, especially in the hospitality sector, is highly competitive. Candidates with exceptional academic records and qualifications often struggle to secure opportunities amidst fierce competition.
Although his respective major at NYU is unrelated to hospitality, Campanaro acknowledged that he lacks the credentials compared to more experienced students seeking internships closer to the city. He recognized the element of chance in his internship selection process, citing it as a matter of coincidence.
Despite the challenges posed by frequent travel and substantial expenses, Campanaro remains content with his decision to pursue this unique internship arrangement. He emphasized the valuable lessons he has learned about customer service and guest satisfaction through his experiences at The Ritz-Carlton.
In an article for Business Insider, Campanaro addressed concerns about managing his workload and travel commitments during this period. He highlighted the importance of continuing his studies even during transit, viewing his efforts not as labor but as a pursuit of his passions.
Ultimately, Campanaro’s journey exemplifies his dedication to personal and professional development, showcasing his willingness to go above and beyond to achieve his goals.