HTM Externship: Fairmont Lake Louise (Summer 2023)

Lean Cimafranca - Hospitality Management-Hotel & Restaurant Diploma (HTM) student shares her Summer Externship with Fairmont Lake Louise through their Student Work Exchange Program (SWEP).

Read Lean’s story below to be inspired and discover the invaluable lessons that shaped her professional growth:

I am Lean Cimafranca taking up Hospitality and Restaurant Service Management (HTM). I am fortunate to work and finish my 860 hours of Externship with Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise this Summer Term 2023. I was enrolled in their Student Work Exchange Program (SWEP) where they empower students like us in the hospitality industry. I was trained in the housekeeping department where I have enjoyed and learned a lot throughout my journey. 

As we all know Housekeeping is one of the biggest departments in a hotel and having a large luxury hotel in a prime destination requires a lot from a room attendant. Luckily being in the SWEP program gave us avenues to improve at our craft. We had seminars about towel art, and mixology classes and we even had our own graduation by the end of summer. 

Looking back, Fairmont taught me three things that I will never forget throughout my career.

First, Teamwork is the key to finishing a day victoriously. We were always busy during summer, but we managed to release rooms and finish the day with the help of every member of the team.

Secondly, I have learned to choose a life-work balance. Living in Banff Park allowed me to see the world from a different perspective. More of nature are the primary activities one can do out here. I learned how to paddle board at lake Louise. Hike at the most picturesque areas in Canada even bike to see Moraine Lake as it was very famous in TikTok.

Lastly, I have learned how to be a "Heartist" which means we work above and beyond. We enhance and touch the hearts of our guests by making their stay more meaningful. We are encouraged to make towel art for appropriate occasions. Write notes to welcome our guests, even talk to them and help them in any way you can, especially about the places they can visit in the area, and how they can reach them. 

In conclusion, It has been an amazing journey. I am looking forward to coming back to Fairmount Chateau Lake Louise next summer. 

Lean's externship and adventure at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise are a testament to the incredible opportunities waiting for you in the Fairmont Western Canada Region. We hope that after learning about her journey, you’ll take the chance to live, study, and work in the mountains!

So, are you ready to write your own story with Fairmont? Join the Employer Connect Session on October 19, 2023 by registering at this link: Exclusive Employer Connect Event