Spotlight on a Sodexo Future Leader: Ulysse Charles - Journey from Intern to Student Ambassador to Sodexo Manager
By Darla Mayse, Senior Recruiter

Ulysse Charles

At the 2008 National Society of Minorities in Hospitality Conference (NSMH), Ulysse and a few of his classmates were having lunch when they noticed a student sitting alone at the next table. As hospitality students, they thought it only fitting to ask him to join them at their table. That "student" turned out to be Sodexo Senior Recruiter Shane Tirpak. Shane answered questions and shared with them information about Sodexo and its Future Leaders Internship Program. "Sodexo’s mission and values aligned with my mission and values, and I wanted to know how I could become a part of company," says Ulysse. Shane connected him with Michelle Thomas, Senior Manager of Diversity and Internship Coordinator. He submitted his application and was offered an internship.

Ulysse Charles, a graduating senior at Johnson and Wales – Miami, spent 10 weeks of his 2008 summer vacation as a Sodexo Future Leaders intern. What initially began as a polite gesture led to a challenging, yet rewarding internship opportunity at a Florida Sodexo account within its Corporate Services division and ultimately a job offer.

Ulysse shares with us his experiences with the internship and offers advice to new grads.

Please tell us about your experience as a Sodexo Future Leaders Intern.

"I had completed internships with other companies before where I performed entry-level duties like food prep and worked as a cashier. I had those expectations for the Sodexo internship. It was not like that at all. It was all management. The internship was challenging, but my manager made sure that we had fun while working and the results of our hard work were great. After completing the internship, I was offered a Sodexo Ambassador opportunity. As an Ambassador, I have the opportunity to increase awareness of Sodexo and the contract services industry to students on my campus who may not have thought about it as a career choice."

What did you like most about interning for Sodexo?

"I especially liked the mentoring aspect of the internship program. My mentor assisted me in overcoming weaknesses and enhancing my skills set. The Sodexo managers showed great teamwork, and there was always a ‘family’ environment. There seemed to be a good balance between work and family life."

You recently accepted a job offer with Sodexo. Why did you decide to come to work for us?

"Yes, I was offered a Food Service Manager position in the Schools Division and will begin June 8th. The internship experience was great. I spent time with the account managers and two days with the District Manager, who shared his experience with Sodexo and why he liked working for the company. Everyone I spoke with had long tenure – 10 years, 20 years. That made me feel like the company was stable and I could truly grow my career here. I saw great retention!"

What advice do you have for college graduates looking to get into this field in light of the economy?

"I would advise them to be flexible when it comes to job opportunities and locations and to network and gain experience while in college through internships, volunteering and jobs in the industry. Lastly, know what you want and set goals. Have checkpoints to stay on track and re-evaluate goals, if necessary."

Ulysse is currently a senior at Johnson and Wales - North Miami Campus, where he serves as president of its NSMH chapter, a managing director of the Taste of JWU, a member of the honors program, and a member of the Leadership Academic Services program.