Semiyah Smith, a student of hospitality and tourism management at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, was recently named a recipient of the Pathways to Success Scholarship and Professional Development Program. Supported by the Destinations International (DI) Foundation, the initiative is designed to increase access, opportunity and career pathways for students pursuing degrees in hospitality and tourism management.
Smith was one of eight scholarship awardees nationwide. According to a DI press release, each selected student will receive up to $8,000 in tuition support, along with access to year-long mentorship, professional development and industry engagement opportunities, including participation in DI’s annual convention.
“Being selected as a Pathways to Success Scholar means so much to me both personally and professionally,” Smith said. “It makes me feel seen, valued and supported. I have worked extremely hard to reach this point, and receiving this scholarship feels like an investment in my dreams and future.”
She added that the opportunity reassures her that others see her potential, even when the journey has not always been easy.
“Professionally, this motivates me to continue striving for excellence and becoming the best version of myself within the hospitality industry,” Smith said.
Through the program, Smith hopes to develop her personal brand and expand her industry knowledge.
“I am also looking forward to gaining wisdom from experienced industry leaders, learning more about leadership and professional growth and discovering how to create lasting opportunities for myself and others in my community,” she said.
Around a year ago, Dr. Suzzette Shaw Goldmon, coordinator of UAPB’s Hospitality and Tourism Management Program, provided Smith her first opportunity to attend a hospitality student conference in Washington, D.C.
“Since that experience, Semiyah has gained a deeper understanding of the diverse people, career paths and professional opportunities within the hospitality industry that can enrich both her collegiate experience and future career. Connecting with faculty, advisors and organizational board members has expanded the educational ‘village’ supporting Semiyah and other students.”
Dr. Goldmon said she regularly pursues grant funding to support student participation in such programming, ensuring their exposure to networking, mentorship and scholarship opportunities.
“Hospitality is a multidisciplinary field that creates pathways for students in nutrition, agriculture, business and many other areas of study,” she said. “Any student with an interest in hospitality should consider transformative experiences such as these, as they have the potential to shape the trajectory of their academic and professional futures.”
Smith said her inspiration for pursuing a degree in hospitality and tourism management stems from knowing that God blessed her with the gift of serving others.
“Growing up in a rough environment, I saw how many children are never encouraged to dream beyond their circumstances,” she said. “I wanted to choose a career path that aligned with
my passions for traveling, serving people and cooking, while also allowing me to inspire others from communities like mine.”
Smith aims to show other students they are not defined by where they come from or the obstacles they face.
“After graduating from UAPB, I hope to build a successful career within the hospitality industry where I can lead, create meaningful experiences for others and continue opening doors for future generations who may feel limited by their circumstances,” she said.
