Welcome to the HMA website! HMA is a non-profit student organization representing the Hospitality and Tourism Management department at Virginia Tech.

The overall purpose of HMA is to acquaint its members with the basic concepts, practices, and philosophies of sales, marketing and other aspects of the hospitality industry. Student members receive hands-on experience in developing skills in these areas for a future in hospitality.

At a sales blitz, students visit hotels and make sales calls to help promote that particular hotel. The blitz provides students with a chance to see the "inner working" of a hotel marketing department. Lodging and food expenses are paid for by the hotel, but the best part is the networking that occurs from meeting managers at these hotels. These contacts may lead to future jobs or internships!

The club operates on a point system, where members receive points for attending general meetings, field trips, or participating in a sales blitz. The incentive for accumulating points is the chance to attend industry trade shows, such as the American Hotel and Motel Association Show in New York City and the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago. Trade shows afford the perfect opportunity for students to meet industry professionals and prospective employers while visiting other booths and collecting information about various companies and new technologies which will aid their own careers.

Membership is open to any undergraduate or graduate student at Virginia Tech who has interest in the hospitality industry and has paid membership dues.

Upcoming Events Links
Points List (as of April 16, 2002) Pictures