The hospitality major at Iowa State has been ranked in the top 10 out of the 20 best hospitality programs in the United States. Total, there are 200 four-year similar programs in the United States.

“We have very good students,” said Bob Bosselman, chairman of the department of apparel, events and hospitality management. “Our students go to a number of major conferences around the country, and their performance clearly impacts people’s perceptions of our program.”

Iowa State’s program is one of the oldest and often has been viewed with high regard. The program has received various other awards and rankings. One award came from the Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Research. They previously ranked the program 15th out of the world’s top 100 hospitality and tourism programs.

“What we’re achieving here at Iowa State is building on a great foundation and will be providing an excellent education for years to come in hospitality management,” Bosselman said.

The Joan Bice Underwood Tearoom is one landmark of the program. It is the oldest, continually student-run food service operation. The Tearoom is a lab providing students with hands-on learning in techniques that can be used in the restaurant industry.

“The Tearoom seems to be the one class that really brings students together, and I think many would agree that the lab is one unique experience after another,” said Matthew Monaco, senior in hospitality management.

The Tearoom is open for students and faculty to eat lunch Tuesday through Friday, and dinner on Thursday and Friday. Located on the lower level of MacKay Hall, the dining facility seats around 105 guests and now offers a to-go option for lunch.

Learning is always easier with a great teacher, and Bosselman and Monaco said hospitality management has some of the best. Monaco appreciated the diverse backgrounds of teachers and the high quality of information taught.

The program requires immense training beyond the classroom: a 400 hour internship, 200 hours of work experience and 5 credits of class and lab work.

“I believe you get out what you put in, and in this major there are so many opportunities to get involved,” said Talia Patton, senior in hospitality management. “I can’t imagine anyone being disappointed.”