Katherine Ropp, who studies Hospitality Management, applies what she learns in the classroom in the real world.

Where are you from? What motivated you to go to OSU-Cascades?

I’ve lived in Redmond for the past 13 years. I love Central Oregon, so the fact that I could get a 4-year degree in Bend really motivated me.

What made you decide to go into hospitality management?

Two years ago I started working a Brasada Ranch Resort in Powell Butte, just outside of Bend. It was my first introduction in the industry, and I really enjoyed it. Working with the guests and behind the scenes operations are what I really enjoy. Tourism is a huge part of the economy here. You can find a job if you have the ability and experience.

What do you like most about going to school and working in Central Oregon?

Everything. There’s much to do here! There’s inside and outside activities year-round. It’s a great community. It’s a great place to raise a family, and it still has a small-town feel. I’d rather be here than anywhere else.

What do you like most about your classes and your professors?

I really like that all the professors have worked in the industries they teach. It’s really motivating. They bring in real-world experience. I love the classes because they’re smaller, and you get one-on-one attention.

I particularly enjoyed a team and individual management class with Marla Hacker, because I could apply what I learned in the classroom to my job at Brasada Ranch.

How did you get your position at Brasada Ranch, and what do you do there?

I got my job by chance about two and a half years ago. There was an ad for it in the newspaper, and I wasn’t even sure what I was applying for. But I love it. I work at the front desk handling the overnight lodging for the resort. I interact with guests, keep owner contracts current, and do the billing for our department.

How do you feel your coursework has helped you at your position?

At Brasada Ranch I really get to use what I learn in the classroom in a real life setting. It makes it more meaningful for me. I get to work with a team and interact with guests daily, my coursework has helped me manage those different personalities I encounter. 

How do you see the program growing in the future?

The hospitality management program will grow very quickly. Central Oregon is driven by tourism. Once people start finding out about the program, they’ll start taking advantage of it.  

What do you hope to do in the future?

I’d like to keep building my relationship with Jeld-Wen, who owns Brasada Ranch. There are opportunities here to move up, and they’ve treated me well.