Career Profile - Front Desk Clerk

Danica Hidalgo

When Danica was growing up in the Philippines, her family took her to the Makati Shangri-la Hotel in Manila and it was a day she would never forget. “I can remember how magnificent the chandelier in the hotel lobby looked,” said Hidalgo. “The grand staircase was incredible – it was the kind of staircase you would see Prince Charming and Cinderella walking down.” This fairy-tale moment became an aspiration for Danica.

Danica graduated high school in Pasay, Philippines and then achieved her Bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. However, Danica’s dream job of working in a hotel would not come true immediately upon immigrating to Canada. Her previous schooling could not be credited in Canada and she would have to retake her Hospitality Management education.

Fortunately for Danica, the Manitoba Start program offered a Front Desk Agent course in partnership with Manitoba Tourism Education Council (MTEC). Danica was sent to the Inn at the Forks for her coursework and internship. Her passion for meeting new people and customer service led to full time employment. “I’m excited to come to work because every day is different,” said Hidalgo. “My duties revolve around the needs of hotel guests and can range from checking guests in and out to administration work.” Recently, Danica was promoted to shift leader which comes with more responsibilities.

Danica’s advice for career seekers is to accept challenges head-on. “Always follow your heart and dream big,” she said. “Finding and preparing for a career is not always easy and you will make mistakes. Learn from those mistakes, move forward and be prepared for the adventure.”

For more information about careers in the hospitality and tourism industry, visit: www.mtec.mb.ca