Maci McClaine spent the Spring 2022 semester doing an internship in Naples, FL within the restaurant industry. She interned at Campiello, one of the most popular Italian restaurants in town, working directly with the general manager, Brian Wells. She learned how to run a restaurant through his eyes. Additionally, she helped out with other tasks including, hostessing, inventory, financials and gift card stock, and general office work. Maci also spent time in the events department, assisting with event bookings and planning. These included birthday parties, business dinners, and wedding rehearsals. Organization and planning were key skills needed to run a successful event for the customers. Within this department she designed a new way for hostesses to take information for the event coordinator. Her three main takeaways was the importance of treating employees of all levels with respect, maintaining loyal customers, and being patient when dealing with issues in the restaurant industry. Maci also learned the importance of customer relationships, she even noticed they began learning her name after working with her making reservations and planning events. The lessons learned about running a successful restaurant and experience in this internship allowed her to obtain a new job at the Bayfront Inn in Florida as their Sales and Catering Manager. She hopes to open her own boutique restaurant in Naples or Miami in the future.
