Employer Case Studies
Newport Marriott Hotel
New England hotel offers international students a charming and unique perspective on U.S. chronicles
From Spring 2006
Founded in 1639, Newport, Rhode Island was one of the five most important settlements in the 13 colonies, sharing that distinction with Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Charlestown. Located in the heart of historic Newport, and overlooking Newport Harbor, the Newport Marriott Hotel is located in an exceptional training venue that is undeniably very rich in American history.
In December 2005, 20 post-secondary students from Brazil and Uruguay got to experience this legendary city for themselves as they began their short-term positions at Marriott.
Paul Garruto, director of services at Newport Marriott, explained that for three years, Newport Marriott has participated in the AIPT Experience USA® program, a program that provides international students the opportunity to work and experience U.S. culture during their schools’ summer breaks. This past winter, Garruto supervised the students in a variety of housekeeping positions, and some students took advantage of being cross-trained in laundry, banquet services, kitchen, and more.
“We did not receive one complaint regarding the students,” Garruto said. “The staff and guests really enjoyed them being there.”Alex Chavarria, director of human resources at Newport Marriott, agreed that everyone benefits from the AIPT Experience USA® program. He explained that the company benefits in many ways but some of the core benefits include, giving back to the community or in this case― “a community thousands of miles away;” adhering to Marriott’s philosophy of building relationships in order to maintain growth; and having a good quality performer that allows Marriott to take care of the guests.
“It is a wonderful way to expose them and ourselves to each other in a positive environment,” Chavarria said. “I believe we do a great benefit to the participants, and in instilling these and more beliefs in order to assist towards their learning's, their growth, their development, and their personal and career paths.”The environment didn’t stop at the hotel for the participants. Garruto said that students also got to experience the great culture by visiting some of Newport’s restaurants, shops, museums, landmarks, and music festivals during their free time. He said there were many opportunities for the students to enjoy what Newport has to offer, and both Garruto and Chavarria agree that Newport Marriott will continue to participate in AIPT’s programs in the future.
“The AIPT program allows us to provide an extension to our culture,” Chavarria said. “This exchange is important and needed in all countries for it takes the pieces to create a whole towards understanding, believing, accepting, rewarding, and taking care of each other.”
