Group Housing Coordinator
Gaylord Texan Hotel

“When I first came to the U.S. from India, I was unable to work and therefore wanted to start school to keep myself busy. I had always been interested in hospitality, and I read about the program at North Lake, which was close to my house. I thought the program sounded interesting, but I never realized it would become my career.
 
“My experience in the program was awesome. Arthur James was a great teacher who helped us understand what the hospitality industry is all about. He always kept the lines of communication going and never lost patience with us. He strived to help us understand the industry better.

“When the Gaylord Texan was opening up in Irving, Mr. James took us there on a field trip to visit area hotels and resorts. I volunteered to help with their grand hire before the opening, and then I loved the place and the people working there and wanted to be a part of this organization. After applying, I was one of the 1,800 who were lucky enough to get a job there.
 
“I’m a people person, and I get to work with all kinds of different people. I love what I do. I am excited to come to work every day because every day is new and the job is never monotonous.
 
“There is high turnover in this profession, so you always look for people who have the ability to enjoy and work with all kinds of people. You need to have that passion to come to work and no matter what your day has been like at home, put a smile on your face and go forward.”

Group Housing Coordinator Hetal Suratwala has been named the Gaylord Texan’s Star of the Month in August 2006; Star (Employee) of the Year in 2007; and one of its Home Team Heroes, a quarterly award, for her passion for service in the last quarter of 2007. Her department of about a dozen employees handles all groups who attend conferences and conventions at the hotel.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and psychology from the University of Mumbai and has completed most of the requirements for an associate degree in Hospitality Management from North Lake College.