Isenberg HTM Alumna Recognized on Thirty Under 30 List

“Hospitality attracts some of the kindest and most genuine people, across both operations and investments,” said Emma Dietz, who graduated from Isenberg in 2021 with dual bachelor’s degrees in hospitality and tourism management and finance. “My favorite part about working in this industry is definitely the people, as well as the hotels themselves.”

Dietz was recently included on the annual Thirty Under 30 list released by Hotel Management magazine, which highlights rising stars in the hospitality industry age 29 and under. “It’s been really exciting and validating to receive this honor,” shared Dietz. “I love this industry, so it felt amazing to be recognized as a rising star within it.”

Dietz received the recognition for her work as a senior associate on the investment team at First Hospitality, a hotel owner-operator based in Chicago, with properties across the country. In her role, she focuses on sourcing, evaluating, and managing existing assets and potential future investment opportunities, driving growth and maximizing portfolio performance for the company.

Before joining First Hospitality, she began her post-college career as an analyst for a hotel brokerage firm in Denver. “My first role confirmed my passion for hospitality and helped me identify the aspects of the work I enjoyed most,” said Dietz. “I think it’s important to remember that your first job doesn’t have to be a perfect fit. It’s a learning experience to identify what you enjoy and what you don’t.”

A Strong Foundation in Hospitality

“Isenberg provided a diverse and well-rounded foundation that I’ve been able to build on throughout my career,” Dietz says, crediting the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) in particular for setting her up for success post-graduation. “The HTM program being part of the business school is a huge advantage because it gave me exposure to the broader commercial and financial sides of hospitality—areas I’ve come to really enjoy.”

Dietz also identified the Isenberg HTM community, from professors to fellow alumni, as a major positive influence in her journey. She cited Muzzo Uysal, Carney Family Endowed Professor in HTM, as one of several important mentors who supported her during her time in Amherst. “I also had countless conversations with alumni who took the time to share their experiences. HTM’s alumni network is more active and engaged than any other I saw at UMass, and it made such a difference.”

Now an alumna herself, Dietz shared some important advice for current students looking to set themselves up for similar success post-graduation. “Lead with curiosity. Ask questions, take notes, and make an effort to understand how and why things are done,” she shared. “You’ll learn a lot in school, but even more once you start working.”