After graduating from Archbishop Stepinac High School in White Plains, Yonkers resident Marco Colaiacovo took a gap year to figure out his next steps and explore career options. One of his gap year jobs was working as a front desk agent at two Marriott hotel properties in Yonkers.
“I soon realized from this job that the hospitality industry really resonated with me, combining my love of travel with the ability to make a meaningful impact with guests in a constantly evolving field,” he says.
His experience as a front desk agent during his gap year gave him a lot of insight into the industry. By showing initiative, he was also tasked with handling billing issues with websites such as Expedia and Booking to resolve any issues that guests had.
Once he completed his gap year, he decided to enroll at Pace University’s Lubin School of Business in Pleasantville, majoring in business management with a concentration in hospitality and tourism. As a junior there, he has continued to work full-time at Marriott International while pursuing a degree. He currently works as a concierge at the St. Regis Residences in Rye, a Marriott International luxury condominium property for adults 55 and older.
In this role, Colaiacovo says he strives to make “the everyday exquisite.” His duties include answering calls, delegating to departments to resolve any issues within the units, and booking restaurants and/or transportation for residents.
Colaiacovo loves working for Marriott International, which has many different hotel brands under its umbrella. “Each brand provides its own unique experience. So, for example at Courtyard hotels for business travelers, they always have an office and coffee available. At St. Regis properties, they diffuse a scent inspired by John Jacob Astor. Marriott International strives to have a wide customer base and they incorporate that into the design,” says Colaiacovo, who was originally thinking of studying architecture.
Ultimately though, it is the relationships he builds with customers that have helped him thrive in this industry. “This is not an industry for the faint of heart. It demands resilience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. But it is so rewarding and I feel fulfilled in my job at the end of the day. When passion and skill align, the opportunities in the hospitality industry are boundless.”
Problem-solving efficiently is also a core skill that is needed. “Teamwork in this business is essential. If the various departments don’t work together, then the outcome for the guest will not be good,” he explains. Colaiacovo advises job seekers to get “their foot in the door early, as it shows interest and initiative. Even a job being a part-time server will give you a feel for the industry.”
He hopes to continue within the industry and explore corporate positions, with the hopes of one day managing several Marriott properties. Next up, he would like to explore sales for Marriott International and other departments. “It is very important for me to know the ins and outs of the business from every angle, from housekeeping to maintenance.”
Colaiacovo prides himself on what he calls his golden rule. “If I haven’t learned something new each day, then I haven’t done something right.” Every interaction with a guest or colleague can serve as a learning opportunity.
He also suggests that those interested in hospitality research Marriott’s Voyage program. It is a 12-month program for recent college grads that places them in one of hundreds of Marriott hotels around the country in a manager-level position with full pay and benefits, including paid relocation if they’re choosing to move away from home, and provides them exposure to various departments such as accounting, finance, and engineering within a property. “It is a great program where participants gain hands-on experience and valuable skills,” he adds.
Colaiacovo remains optimistic about the industry. “Everyone is worried about AI taking over jobs, but the core value of what we do in hospitality is the human connection. Technology can never replace that.”
A career in hospitality might be right for you if:
- You enjoy interacting with people.
- You love discovering new places and sharing them with others.
- You have a passion for food or travel.
- You don’t mind long or irregular hours.
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