By LAZARO GONZALEZ
Success is subjective. For Kristen Kaminski, it’s not about the money, it’s about enjoying the ride. “I never go the direct way. I take the scenic route through life.”
That’s just how she got to South Florida and the hospitality management graduate program at FIU.
Having spent the last 18 years in the Air Force completing two mission support activations and a tour in a conflict zone during Operation Enduring Freedom, Kristen has traveled to many places around the world. And as it turns out traveling, aside from serving her country, is one of her dearest passions.
Lured by sunny skies, blue water and childhood memories of family trips to the area, the Chicago native aimed for South Florida. “I didn’t want to become a snow bird. I wanted to enjoy it while I was still young.”
Once at FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, she found more than fun in the sun. She tapped into a love for academics, thanks in part to professor Miranda Kitterlin, who became her rock, mentor and friend.
With guidance from Dr. Kitterlin and other faculty at the Chaplin School, Kristen became an accomplished writer and researcher, having co-authored several studies ranging from the effects of drugs on the food service industry, to a case study on Cuba, identifying key areas of interest for American tourists. She has won several accolades, including best-student-paper award for one of her research projects and has represented the Chaplin School at several research conferences, and has been part of numerous honor societies and organizations.
After all, Kristen’s success can be measured in numbers. Even after dealing with the loss of her sister to breast cancer and overcoming the challenges of life in the military, where she still serves in the Air National Guard, Kristen has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her entire college career. And it will not end with her master’s degree.
Kristen plans to pursue a doctorate degree. Following the footsteps of her mentors, she is aiming to become a university professor to continue to help other students like herself.
