student handbook

This handbook is a result of reflecting on many of the questions that have been asked of the TAH faculty over the years and has been created to guide you through the process of reaching the goal of earning your degree. This document has been created to provide you with information about courses, expectations, procedures, and policies of Kingsborough Community College (KCC) and the Department of Tourism and Hospitality. It offers guidance as to how to proceed in situations you will face during your time at KCC. It provides direction for you to follow in planning your registration for courses as you proceed toward graduation. It shows you how to be a full member of the TAH Department community. It offers some advice about the best ways to prepare yourself for a career in the exciting tourism and hospitality industry. It is not meant to be a substitute for faculty advisement but it can, if used properly, anticipate and answer many questions you may have along the way.

The document makes special reference to learning outcomes. These are the specific knowledge and skills you are expected to achieve in each course and in the program. They will be provided by your professors at the start of the term. To be successful, you will have to demonstrate that you have achieved these outcomes according to very specific measurement tools determined by the professor and the department. You may be asked on surveys about your perceptions of progress in the department learning outcomes. Answer honestly since the responses will help the faculty evaluate curricula and teaching strategies.

Use

First, it is important that you read the Handbook thoroughly. Once you have read it, you should refer to it frequently. If you have questions, ask them. TAH faculty members have many of the answers or can refer you to publications or other college officials who can guide you. You should keep the Handbook as long as you are a student at Kingsborough.

Use the Handbook as a guide when choosing courses and the checklist for keeping track of your progress. Be aware of the requirements for graduation including courses, the College Preparatory Initiative (CPI), the CUNY exams such as those in reading, writing and mathematics and the College Proficiency Examination (CPE), applying for graduation, and other requirements. Please note that throughout the document, there is an emphasis on your active role in achieving the learning outcomes for each TAH course and for the program as a whole. While this Handbook and members of the faculty can provide you with guidance, you are the most important factor in your education.
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Departmental Mission Statement

The Department of Tourism and Hospitality at Kingsborough Community College is dedicated to preparing students for careers and further study in the rapidly evolving tourism and hospitality industry. By encouraging active learning, we provide the opportunity for students to accumulate the knowledge and skills that are necessary for success in the industry. We also seek to empower students as life-long learners by encouraging them to develop portable skills and competencies in research, critical thinking, communication, technology and an understanding of the world. To that end, we employ a multidisciplinary, student-centered approach that combines both academic and applied components. Ultimately, we serve as a network as well as a resource for industry, offering students and alumni information and contacts to enhance their professional development.
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The Tourism and Hospitality Industry

Travel and Tourism is the third largest sector in the U.S. economy;

Travel and Tourism employs more than 16.2 million people in the U.S. alone. Travel and Tourism employs 10% of the global workforce (more than262 million people);

Travel and Tourism produces a trade surplus of $24.7 billion for the U.S.;

Last year, travel and tourism businesses spent more that $1 billion in foreign countries on advertising, sales, promotion and support services promoting travel to the United States;

The number of executive level jobs in the U.S. is expected to grow in four areas:

30.8 % Food and Beverage Segment
16.2% Air Transportation Segment
27/8% Lodging Segment
39.8% Amusement and Recreation Services Segment;

The tourism and hospitality industry is consistently cited as among the strongest for women and minority advancement and ownership.

Sources: Travel Industry Association of America, National Restaurant Association

These statistics mean that there are career and internship opportunities out there for you. But, to be prepared to work in this exciting industry, you must have a knowledge of the world and the industry, understand and be able to provide excellent customer service, have strong business and technology skills, be able to do research, know a little psychology and be able to network and get along with people. The Department of Tourism and Hospitality will provide you with the opportunity to learn and perfect these skills. However, how much you know and the level of your skills is up to you!
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Career Opportunities
These represent the broad scope of
career titles available in
Tourism and Hospitality

Airlines
Directors, managers, Reservationists, Ticketing and Gate Agents, Customer Service Representatives, Clerical Support, District Sales Representatives, Flight Attendants, Dispatchers, Rate Desk Agents, Crew Schedulers, Human Resources.

Airport Operations
Directors, Managers, Human Resources, Training Specialists, Security.

Car Rental Companies
Managers, Reservationists, Counter Sales Agents, District sales Managers, Clerical support, Maintenance Personel, Training Specialists, Fleet
Supervisors, Shuttle Drivers.

Rail Travel
Directors, Managers, Clerical Support, Sales Representatives, Travel Agents, Automation Specialists.

Conventions and Meetings
Senior Executives, Managers, Meeting Planners, Clerical Support, Food and Beverage Staff, Engineering Staff, Sales Representatives.

Corporate Travel Management
Directors, Managers, Human Resources, Training specialists, Acconutants, Clerical Support, Corporate Travel Managers, Travel Agents, Account Managers.

Visitor Bureaus
Directors, Managers, Marketing Coordinators, Clerical Support, Special Events Coordinators, Public Information Officers, Photographers.

On-Line Travel Providers
Managers, clerical Support, Sales Representatives, Automation Specialists.

Motorcoach Operators
Drivers, Reservationists/Dispatchers, Schedulers,
Tour guides/Tour Conductors, Sales Representatives, Managers

Cruise Industry
Senior Executives, Directors, Managers, Rservationists, Clerical Support, Passenger Service Representatives, District Sales Managers, Shipboard Executives, Support Staff, Entertainers, Human Resources, Shore Excursion Personnel, Port Staff, Cruise Directors.

Incentive Tavel
Managers, Directors, Clerical Support, Supplier Coordinators, Event Planners, Accountants, Sales Representatives, Audio-Visual, Graphics Specialists, Trip Directors.

Lodging & Food Service Industries
Managers, Directors, Clerical Support, Reservationists, Front Desk Staff, Concierges, Groups and Meetings Coordinators, Audio-Visual Coordinators, Safety, Security Specialists, Food and Beverage Staff, sales Representatives, Business Center Staff, Housekeeping Staff.

Tour Operators
Senior Executives, Directors, Managers, Tour guides, Reservationists, Tour Conductors, Tour Planners, Drivers, District Sales Managers, Marketers, Advertisers, Writers, Artists, Photographers.

Travel Agency Operations
Leisure and/or Corporate Travel Aents, Managers, Owners, Travel Specialists, Outside Sales Representatives, Group Specialists, Vendor Negotiators.
Theme Parks
Managers, Admissions Agents, Ride Operators, Food Service Personnel, Tour Guides, Sales Reps, Public Relations Specialists, Ride & Attraction Designers, Safety Personnel.

Departmental Learning Outcomes

With the proper effort and attention to assignments, projects, lectures, and class participation, students graduating with an Associates in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Tourism and Hospitality will achieve the following learning outcomes and goals:

Knowledge of products and services offered by various segments of the tourism/hospitality industry

Knowledge of how tourism/hospitality products are marketed and sold

Developing knowledge of the distribution of tourism/hospitality products

Developing an appreciation of the importance of service in the tourism/hospitality

Learning about the world and the importance of place in destinations

Learning about the characteristics of destinations (culture, history, geography, food, attractions, etc.)

Developing a specialized vocabulary used by industry professionals

Developing personally and professionally to create leaders for the tourism and hospitality industry

Developing psycho-social skills

Developing basic skills in reading, writing, communication, computation and analysis

Using technology related to business, in general, and the tourism/hospitality industry, in particular

Developing and using research skills

Developing a knowledge of business processes related to and used in the industry

Developing knowledge about and using systems used in various segments of the industry

Explaining the relationship of the industry to regulators, government, certifying agencies, professional organizations

Developing an understanding of the economics and cost structures related to doing business in tourism/hospitality

Developing entrepreneurial skills

Exploring careers in tourism/hospitality

Exposure to current events in the industry and the world

Using a variety of learning strategies, including traditional lecture, experiential learning, active learning, applied learning, individualized instruction, computer-assisted learning, collaborative learning, role playing, internships, volunteer opportunities, and experience in the real and virtual economies.
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Assessment

The Department of Tourism and Hospitality is committed to assessing the progress made by its students. As a result, in addition to the general department goals and outcomes listed on the previous page, you will be provided with the expected learning outcomes for each course in the department. You will receive these at the start of the semester as part of the course outline and syllabus. During the course, you will be asked to demonstrate that you have achieved the outcomes. Remember, you are in control of your learning. It is vital that you do all assignments to the best of your ability, participate in class, do well in examinations, and make every effort to learn what is expected of you. You may be asked to answer survey questions about what you have learned and demonstrate the progress you have made in the program.

Technology

The use of computers, computer software and the Internet are important parts of your education and your preparation for a career in tourism and hospitality. Many TAH courses use technology for research, as classroom strategies or for assignments. It is vital, therefore, that you become familiar with commonly-used software packages such as Microsoft Office and with specialized, TAH-related, software that is used in several classes. You should always have a blank disk or a USB pen/keychain drive with you to save your work.

In addition, email is often used as a means of communication between students and faculty and among the students in your class. It is important to note that email is public information. Unlike writing to your friends, the email used at Kingsborough is to be considered a professional means of communication.

Writing

Many TAH courses are designated as Writing Intensive. That means that you will be expected to write extensively in both formal and informal assignments. It has been our experience that many students at Kingsborough have difficulty in writing their ideas in acceptable business fashion. The writing intensive courses offer you the opportunity to write more, revise your work, and improve your writing skills. You may seek additional help in the Reading and Writing Center in the Library (L-219).

Honors Option

You may petition your instructor to have your courses designated as an honors option. Of course, this designation will result in additional research and other work. However, the honors designation is also indicated on your diploma. Students seeking an honors option must be referred to the Department Chair.

CUNY Online

Some courses are taught partially through the Internet, using CUNY Online, which uses BlackBoard ® as its course management system.
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Course Requirements for the A.A.S. in Tourism and Hospitality
TOTAL CREDITS=60

COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS

1. Passing scores on the CUNY/ACT in Reading and Writing and the COMPASS Math Skills Test or developmental courses maybe required.

2. ENG 01200

3. ENG 02400

4. HPE 01200

5. Group Requirements: 13 CREDITS

A minimum of three credits each in Groups I-IV from three different groups

Group I: Performing and Visual Arts

Art - Music - Speech - Theatre Arts

(Excluded are Art & Music Studio, Theatre Production & Technique courses)

Group II: Language and Literature

Foreign Language - Literature - Philosophy

Group III: Social Sciences

Economics - History - Political Science

Group IV: Behavioral Sciences

Anthropology - Psychology - Sociology

Group V: Mathematics and Sciences 4 credits

Biological Sciences - Mathematics & Computer Science - Physical Sciences

DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS

All Majors MUST TAKE:

TAH 1 Introduction to Tourism and Hospitality

TAH 2 Destination Geography

TAH 17 Tourism and Hospitality Technology

TAH 18 Case Studies in Tourism and Hospitality

TAH 19 The Business of Tourism and Hospitality

TAH 90 The Virtual Enterprise

TAH 91 Professional Portfolio (TAH 09100)

TAH 92 Field Experience in Tourism and Hospitality

Fundamentals of Business (BA 01100) or Entrepreneurship (ES 05100)

Principles of Marketing (BA 01400) or Salesmanship (RM 03300)

Introduction to Computer Concepts (BA 60)

PLUS EITHER A OR B BELOW

A) FOR MAJORS WITH CONCENTRATION IN TOURISM:

Students must take two of the following courses:

TAH 12 Tourism Entrepreneurship

TAH 15 Cruises and Specialty Markets

TAH 65 Airport and Aviation Management

TAH 82 Airline and Airport Security

B) FOR MAJORS WITH CONCENTRATION IN HOSPITALITY:

Students must take two of the following courses:

TAH 22 Front Office Operations

TAH 41 Introduction to Meeting Planning

TAH 43 Event Catering Management

TAH 72 Restaurant and Food Service Operations

Electives

Students may elect to take additional department electives consistent with their career and transfer goals. Electives include: TAH 51, Interpretive Guiding; TAH 52, Internet Applications in TAH; TAH 71, Introduction to Professional Food Service, TAH 73, Cultural Foods: The Geography of Food and Wine; TAH 74, Menu and Dining Room Management.
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Sequence and Advisement

TAH 1 is a prerequisite for all the other TAH courses. Therefore, as a general rule, it is recommended that you take TAH 1 and TAH 2 in your first semester. TAH 91 and 92 should be taken in your last semester and TAH 18 before you take the CPE examination (see below). You may take the other courses in any order. While TAH courses are offered during both day and evening hours, not every course is offered every term or at the hour you may want them.

You must be advised by a member of the TAH faculty before registering each semester. Advisement does not guarantee a seat in each course; it simply checks whether you are on the right path to your personal and professional goals. After advisement you must register using e-sims or in person based on the instructions provided by the office of the registrar. In the event you have a problem registering on the Internet or in person, call (718-368-5143) or visit the department (V226).

Sometimes courses are closed due to over-subscription or cancelled due to under-subscription. The best defense against both is to be advised and register as early as possible. In the event a course you have been advised to take is closed or has been cancelled, contact an advisor or the department for alternate suggestions.

Occasionally, courses required for graduation are unavailable at registration. In this case, see an advisor. An appropriate substitution may be made where possible.
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Evening/Weekend Courses

The TAH department offers a variety of classes from 8 AM – 9:30 PM across six days per week in order to accommodate students with any number of scheduling constraints. In the event that a required course is not offered at a time you can attend see an advisor.

Using E-sims

E-sims stands for the Electronic Student Information Management System. With e-sims you can view your unofficial transcript, search for seats in courses, register, and print your bill. To do this you'll need a pin number from the registrar, which comes by mail or is available from A-101. Before each registration period a variety of e-sims workshops are offered by the Academic Advisement Center; attend one. For registration, you'll get an appointment letter in the mail telling you when you are able to register using e-sims. Register as close to your appointment as possible. If you have any trouble registering with e-sims, call the e-sims help line, the department (718-368-5143) or your advisor.

Additional Graduation Requirements

Math Skills Test and the CUNY/ACT in Reading and Writing

Students must achieve a passing grade on the Math Skills Test and the CUNY/ACT in Reading and Writing. These tests evaluate student skills in reading, writing and mathematics. The results of the examinations determine the need for developmental instruction.

College Preparatory Initiative (CPI)

All entering Kingsborough Community College students who graduated from high school after June, 1993 may be expected to complete units of high school work in specified areas while in college. This might mean that you must take additional courses to satisfy the CPI requirement. See a TAH a counselor or faculty advisor.

Developmental Courses

Students who do not achieve a passing grade in the Math, Reading or Writing examinations must take developmental English or Mathematics courses before they can take English 12 or Math 7 or Math 9.

CUNY Proficiency Examination (CPE)

Effective Fall 1999 and thereafter, all new first-time freshmen admitted to a CUNY degree program are required to pass the University Proficiency Exam. The CPE tests students in aspects of academic reading, writing and critical thinking and assesses the proficiency of associate degree students prior to graduation, students seeking to transfer into the senior colleges, and senior college students advancing from the lower to the upper division. Additional information may also be obtained at: www.kingsborough.edu or www.cuny.edu.

Applying for Graduation/Waivers

In the semester you are expecting to graduate, you must apply for graduation. The registrar’s office will then send you a letter indicating if you have fulfilled all the requirements for graduation. If you need a waiver for a course, it is during this final semester that you would seek one from Dr. Schulman, the Chairman of the Department.
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Course Checklist

As you progress through the program, check off the courses you have taken:

COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS:

______ ENG 12

______ ENG 24

______ HPE 12

______ GROUP 1 (Indicate course: ______________________)

______ GROUP 2 (Indicate course: ______________________)

______ GROUP 3 (Indicate course: ______________________)

______ GROUP 4 (Indicate course: ______________________)

______ GROUP 5 (Indicate course: ______________________)

DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS

REQUIRED COURSES:

______ TAH 1

______ TAH 2

______ TAH 17

______ TAH 18

______ TAH 19

______ TAH 90

______ TAH 91

______ TAH 92

______ BA 11 or ES 51 or substitute (Indicate course: _____________)

______ BA 14 or RM 33 or substitute (Indicate course: _____________)

______ BA 60 or substitute (Indicate course: _____________________)

Plus 2 courses from either A or B below:

A. Tourism

______ TAH 12

______ TAH 15

______ TAH 65

B. Hospitality

______ TAH 19

______ TAH 22

______ TAH 43

______ TAH 72

______ TAH 74

Additional Elective Courses

______ (Indicate course: ______________________)

______ (Indicate course: ______________________)
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Department of Tourism and Hospitality Course Descriptions

TAH 00100 – INTRODUCTION TO TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Overview of the many and varied organizations and agencies that make up the tourism and hospitality industry, their roles and interrelationships. Topics include transportation, lodgings, restaurants, wholesale and retail operations, attractions, government owned parks and facilities, trade organizations, and governmental agencies.

TAH 00200 – DESTINATION GEOGRAPHY (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Destination development topics include: travel motivation; man-made and natural attractions, and activities in their geographic context; major tourism destination areas; selling techniques used when counseling clients. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 01200 – TOURISM ENTREPRENEURSHIP (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

The role of governmental and quasi-governmental bodies as they affect the operation and financial status of travel retailers and wholesalers. Introduced to the use of computer systems, students become familiar with governmental regulations and financial sales reports. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 01500 – CRUISES AND SPECIALTY MARKETS (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Presents various specialty, niche travel markets to the student. These markets include: cruises, Adventure Tourism, Heritage Tourism, Spa and Fitness Tourism, Special Interest Sports Tourism, Gaming and Casino operations. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 01700 – TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY TECHNOLOGY (3 crs. 4 hrs.)

Surveys critical technology components in travel and tourism, hospitality and food service. Students develop a basic understanding of these systems and their application to each industry through workplace simulations and online activities. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 01800 – CASE STUDIES IN TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

The case method is used to examine the various components of the tourism and hospitality industry. Each case contains details of actual operations that can be viewed from various perspectives in reaching solutions. Relevant technology and analytical tools are utilized throughout the course. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 01900 – THE BUSINESS OF TOURISM & HOSPITALITY (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Survey of critical business competencies and applied technology strategies to manage, market, create and promote tourism and hospitality products and services. Relevant reports and documents are prepared by students through simulated activities. Entrepreneurial activities are placed in a Tourism and Hospitality context. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 02200 – FRONT OFFICE OPERATIONS (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Survey of front office operations within a hotel including front desk, reservations, customer service, night audit, marketing and human resources. Students master and apply critical skills and competencies for careers in the Hospitality industry. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 04100 – INTRODUCTION TO MEETING PLANNING (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

The basic essentials and elements of meeting planning plus an introduction to the opportunities and responsibilities in this growing field. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 04200 – EVENT PLANNING AND OPERATIONS (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

To effectively manage the increasingly complex area of hotel and association meeting and event planning and operations, students learn to understand and deal with fiscal constraints and acquire necessary skills and knowledge to successfully interact with the various players involved. Prerequisite: TAH 04100

TAH 04300 – EVENT CATERING MANAGEMENT (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Introduction to the basic skills and competencies required for catering, food and beverage operations, and the opportunities and responsibilities of this sector of the hospitality and tourism industry.

Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 05100 – INTERPRETIVE GUIDING (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Basic components of Tour Guiding including duties and responsibilities of a tour guide and how to handle tour groups in various settings. New York City will be the reference point for sight and attraction guiding. Requirements for the New York City Tour Guide license. Prerequisites: TAH 00100, TAH 00200

TAH 05200 – INTERNET APPLICATIONS IN TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

This course will prepare students to understand the basic essentials of ecotourism, diversity in tourism and tourism research. These are new and significant emerging competencies that are required for developmental opportunities in the tourism and hospitality industry. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 05300 – GEOGRAPHIC HIGHLIGHTS (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

The financial, sociocultural, physical resource and environmental consequences of tourism developmental decisions. The application of this information in the competition for market share.

Prerequisites: TAH 00100, TAH 00200

TAH 05400 – COMPARATIVE HOSPITALITY VENUES (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Meeting planning, Event management, Trade Show Development and administration and catering support as elements critical to the growth and economic development of the hospitality industry. This course will help prepare students to recognize and manage these factors in today's global marketplace.

Prerequisites: TAH 00100, TAH 00200

TAH 06100 – INTRODUCTION TO LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORTATION (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

An overview of the field of logistics and transportation in light of today's global market realities. Includes a thorough analysis of the U.S. and international transportation systems, physical distribution operations, and

import/export documentation as well as the principles involved in the movement of goods worldwide.

Prerequisites: TAH 00100, TAH 00200

TAH 06500 – AIRPORT AND AVIATION MANAGEMENT (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

This course will impart to students a broad understanding of the air transportation industry and an appreciation of the major management functions within an airline and airport. The characteristics, scope and economic significance of airports and air transportation are explored in detail.

Prerequisites: TAH 00100, TAH 00200

TAH 07100 – INTRODUCTION TO PROFESSIONAL FOOD SERVICE (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

An introduction to the various components of the professional food service industry. Subjects will include the history, scope, classification, trends and the role of the customer. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 07200 – RESTAURANT AND FOOD SERVICE OPERATIONS (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

An introduction to restaurant concepts and operations for students who want to open their own restaurant, or

manage a restaurant or catering establishment. The course is a blueprint for how to proceed from the conceptual development stage through the marketing, operations and management of a restaurant or catering facility. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 07300 – CULTURAL FOODS: GEOGRAPHY OF FOOD AND WINE (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Will introduce students to the relationship between areas of food and wine production, culture, preparation and consumption. The role of food and wine as a component of the tourism and hospitality industry will be explored. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 07400 – MENU AND DINING ROOM MANAGEMENT (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

The role and importance of proper wait service to the tourism and hospitality industry. Case studies, cost, and control factors in the construction and management of a function menu will be covered. New trends and developments will be explored as they relate to catering, trade shows and professional meetings.

Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 081XX – INDEPENDENT STUDY (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Independent study of tourism and hospitality is developed individually between student and faculty member and must be approved by the Department.

TAH 082XX – (1-3 crs. 1-3 hrs.)

This course is of a topical nature and is designed to meet the immediate needs and interests of various student populations. It is offered for a maximum of two semesters.

TAH 09096 – THE VIRTUAL ENTERPRISE (3 crs. 3 hrs.)

Introduction to business operations of tourism, hospitality, aviation, international transportation, and the food service industries through the development operation of a simulated business environment. Utilizing technology, students trade products and services, and form decision-making teams that conceive, organize and operate business transactions.

TAH 09160 – PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO (1 cr. 1 hr.)

Will direct students in the preparation and assembly of a professional portfolio consisting of a career development package, research write-up and work samples. The portfolio will serve as a professional vitae for students in their internship fieldwork placement. A supervised practical experience evaluation completes the professional portfolio. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100

TAH 09250 – FIELD EXPERIENCE IN TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY (3 crs. 9 hrs.)

(8 hrs. in field plus 1 hr. on-campus seminar)

To integrate theory and practice by applying acquired skills in an actual work environment, eight hours per week of supervised field experience in travel and hospitality plus one hour a week on campus, of seminar discussion of relevant topic. Pre or corequisite: TAH 00100
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Some Specialized TAH Courses

The Internship

All majors in the Department of Tourism and Hospitality are required to complete an internship working in the industry. To satisfy this requirement, students must be enrolled in TAH 92, Field Experience in Tourism and Hospitality. A successful internship consists of 100 hours of satisfactory field experience as evidenced by the evaluation of the professor and the field supervisor, fourteen hours of classroom attendance, and the submission of an internship report. While every effort will be made to assign each student to an internship that matches his/her interest, internship opportunities will be dependent on availability and a successful interview by the student. Failure to submit the internship report will result in a grade of INC. (See the grading policy for an important note about incomplete grades.)

The Portfolio

All students must take TAH 91, the Professional Portfolio. The elements of the portfolio are a personal statement, a resume, letters of recommendation and samples of your best work. You should not wait until taking TAH 91 before collecting your work. You should value and save your work. With that in mind, you should always submit your best work and revise whenever possible so that you will have excellent samples to put in your professional portfolio. In addition, when seeking letters of recommendation, be sure to ask people who know you well. Professors with whom you have taken only one course are not generally good choices. Please be considerate. Since professors are often asked for recommendations, please do not wait until the last week before requesting a letter.

Virtual Enterprise (VE)

Students in the TAH Department take Virtual Enterprise. In this course, you will operate a simulated business, performing the tasks required of a real business. While the products and services you sell and the money you receive in return are not real, all the work is. By “experiencing” business, you will be better able to face the challenges often encountered by real business people. In addition to honing your knowledge of business, this course also provides you with an opportunity to improve your skills in the areas of interpersonal relations, management, organization, and technology. You may take VE more than once as an Independent Study. In this course, you are required to attend staff meetings and lab hours. It is important that you perform both.

Independent Study

You have the opportunity to take a limited number of credits outside the traditional course structure as Independent Study, designated by the course number "081XX. In TAH Independent Study courses are offered in VE, Advanced Geography, Advanced Food Service, Advanced Hospitality and Advanced Tourism Technology. Students registering for such courses undertake a prescribed program of individual and/or group research and may attend seminars or workshops dealing with their field of study. All work will be conducted under the supervision of the assigned instructor and will be evaluated and graded by the instructor. Successful completion of the "08100" courses generally requires 3 hours per week and earns 3 credits per semester. These courses are open ONLY to upper freshmen and sophomore students who have an overall B average (3.00 index) in the subject area, with departmental approval.
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Additional Departmental Activities

Events

In order to help prepare students for success in the tourism and hospitality industry, the Department of Tourism and Hospitality offers the opportunity to participate in additional activities which will provide exposure and networking opportunities. While every event does not necessarily take place each term, the following are examples of such activities:

· Case Study Competition

· Virtual Enterprise Trade Fair

· Leadership Course

· International Hotel, Motel and Restaurant Show

· New York City Tours

· Cruise Ship Inspections

· Back-of-the-House Hotel/Restaurant Tours

· Visits to and from 4-year colleges

You should participate in as many of these as possible.

Clubs

There is a Tourism and Hospitality Club (see Prof. Marshall) which initiates and plans many of the above activities. There is also a Food Club (see Prof. Deutsch) and an Aviation Club (see Prof. Biel) for students in those concentrations. You should become a member. See the above faculty advisors for meeting dates and times. Exploring and discussing issues relevant to your chosen field with other students and faculty members is an easy but important way to expand your knowledge, and have fun!

Certifications

You have the opportunity to qualify for certifications governed by outside certifying agencies. This requires you to participate in a certification course and an examination. The available certifications are:

Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) Course/Certification
Serve-Safe Certification
Society for the Advancement of Travel for the Handicapped (SATH) Certification
Wine and Responsible Alcohol Service Certification

Newsletter

Each month, the Department of Tourism and Hospitality issues an e-newsletter that is sent to your email address and is on the department web site. It is important that you read this publication so that you are aware of events and goings-on in the department. You should indicate your email address on the personal data form at the start of your TAH experience. If your email address changes, be sure to update it with Professor Borgese, even after you graduate!

Trade Press

As a future professional in the tourism and hospitality industry, you have an obligation to keep up with what is going on in your field. You wouldn’t want to go to a doctor who was not up-to-date with the most modern advances in her/his field. Similarly, you must so also know your industry. There are many publications read by industry professionals. They are often very specific to a segment of the industry like meeting planning, hotels, food service, etc. A number of these publications are available in the library and many are now on-line. You should make a habit of reading them as well as the daily newspaper.
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Grading Policy

Kingsborough Community College Official Grading System

The Department of Tourism and Hospitality adheres to the official grading policy of the college.

GRADE DEFINITION

A+, A, A- EXCELLENT

B+, B, B- GOOD

C+, C, SATISFACTORY

C-, D+, D PASSING

F FAILURE

INC Doing Passing Work, But Missing an Assignment or an Examination

(Changes to a “FIN,” if work is not made up by the 10th Week of the next

12-Week Module)

FIN Failure as a Result of an Incomplete

W Withdrew Officially

WA Withdrawn Administratively Due To Immunization Noncompliance

WU Withdrew-Unofficial; Counts as Failure

Grade Change

Students may appeal a final grade NO LATER than the end of the semester following that in which the grade was given. The student must first speak to the instructor about the grade. If that does not satisfactorily resolve the matter, the student must speak to the Chairperson of the Department. Following these steps, the student may file an appeal with the Committee on Academic Review.

Incomplete Grades

If for some reason you are doing passing work but are unable to complete all assignments in a course and, as a result, receive a grade of INC, you have six months to complete the missing work. If the work is submitted to the professor, a new grade will be determined. (It takes several weeks before the grade is recorded on your transcript.) If the work is not submitted by the deadline noted on the college calendar, the INC grade will be automatically changed to a FIN, failure as a result of an incomplete. Please note that a grade of FIN is counted as a failure when computing your Grade Point Average.

Withdrawing from a Course

If for some reason, you must withdraw from a course, be sure to do so officially. Failure to follow this procedure will result in a grade of WU which is an unofficial withdrawal and is the same as a failing grade. There is a deadline for withdrawing officially (see the KCC calendar). Please note that a WU is counted as a failure when computing your Grade Point Average.
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Tutoring

If you need help in one of your classes, tutoring is often available. In addition to peer tutoring, you may be able to get help in the Math or English Skills Centers. Ask a faculty advisor.

Student Attendance Policy

Absence

A student who has been absent 15% of the total number of instructional hours that a class meets during a semester or session may be considered excessively absent by the instructor. In a three credit course, you are deemed excessively absent when you reach the fifth absence. Remember, that’s a total of five. Having a doctor’s note or another legitimate excuse doesn’t earn you an extra absence. An excused absence is still an absence and counts toward the total. The instructor may consider excessive absences as a factor in the assignment of a student’s grade. You should, therefore, be sure to attend class regularly. When you are not in class, you are missing things that you need to learn. If you are ill, stay home. Otherwise, be in class! And, be on time!!!!

Lateness

You are expected to be punctual. An 8:00 AM class starts at 8:00, etc. If you arrive at 8:15 or even 8:01, you are late. If you arrive after 8:30, you are not considered present for the day and will be marked absent. Professors understand that sometimes the bus runs late or some other transportation disaster may have happened to you. However, if you are consistently late or if lateness is more the rule than the exception, you need to get up earlier and get on the road to school. At no time should you be late because you stopped to get your coffee and bagel or to talk to friends. If you arrive in class after attendance is taken, be sure to remind the professor at the end of class. Professors record lateness on their attendance roster. Some professors count a certain number of times late as an absence.

Academic Honesty

The Department of Tourism and Hospitality adheres to the CUNY Policy on Academic Integrity which prohibits cheating, plagiarism, obtaining unfair advantage over another student and falsification of records and official documents. During your time in the department, you will be required to submit papers, projects, cases, and other assignments. These must be your own work. When doing research and using the work of others, it is required to give them credit for their words and ideas. If you do not, you will receive a failing grade for the assignment and, possibly for the course and may be subject to disciplinary action and expulsion.
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Finding Help Around the College

There might be times when you need specific kinds of assistance. Below is a list of offices around the college where you might be able to find help:

Academic Advisement – M101/M201

Advanced Student Counseling – D102. For students who have earned more than 30 credits.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program – U228

Education and information, treatment and referral and positive alternatives are provided to students.

Bursar – A205

Career Development Office – C102

Get help in career planning including resume writing, interview skills, job search, and career counselling. Information is also available about workshops, career fairs, recruitment fair, part-time and holiday job fairs. There is also an on-line jobs board.

Child Care/Early Education – V105

A licensed, accredited learning center for children of KCC students

College Discovery/Bilingual Studies Program – L516

Dean of Students – A216

ESL Counseling – E102. Students who are not native English speakers

Financial Aid Office – U201

Freshman Year Experience – F102. For students who have earned less than 30 credits.

Health Services – A108

International Student Affairs – V114. For information about student visas and citizenship.

Non-Traditional Career Students Office – V103

Personal Counseling V103

For students who have personal issues and would like to speak to an objective professional about making effective changes in their lives

Registrar – A101

Security – L202

Special Services - D205. Students with Disabilities

Student Life – C123

Student activities, student government, and information about student clubs and organizations.

TAP Office - P204. Information about the Tuition Assistance Program.

Transfer Counseling and New Start Students – C102

Students who are interested in transferring to another school.

Women’s Center - M382

Provides opportunities and support for women students to develop their full potential.
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After Graduation

Furthering Your Education

The Tourism and Hospitality Department at Kingsborough Community College has articulation agreements with many local and out-of-town colleges offering the bachelor’s degree. These colleges will accept most of your TAH and college credits from Kingsborough. Below is a list of the institutions who frequently accept our students. You should investigate these and other schools.

Local:

Brooklyn College

New York City College of Technology

New York Institute of Technology

New York University

St. Francis College

St. John’s University

Out-of-town:

Cornell University

Dowling College

Drexel University

Fairleigh Dickenson University

Florida International University

George Washington University

Johnson and Wales University

Paul Smith College

SUNY Cobbleskill

SUNY Delhi

Temple University

University of Houston

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

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Keeping in Touch

Even after you graduate, it is important that you stay in touch with the department. You should be sure we have your current email address. Sometimes job opportunities come through the department and appear in the newsletter or in a general email that goes out to all current and former students. So it would benefit you to keep your resume up-to-date and communicate with the department. You never know where your next job or promotion might come from. And, it’s nice to hear about how you are doing!

Web Page

Keep checking the department’s web page at: www.kbcc.cuny.edu/academicDepartments/tah/index.htm

Department Office

Room: V226 (Academic Village)

Phone: 718 368-5143*

Fax: 718 368-4880

Web Site: www.kbcc.cuny.edu/academicDepartments/tah/index.htm

* Please note that all faculty members can be reached through this phone number.

Faculty Office Numbers and E-mail Addresses

Full-Time Faculty

Professor	Office	E-mail
Audant	V-229K	baudant@kbcc.cuny.edu
Bufano	V-229E	rbufano@kbcc.cuny.edu
Borgese	V-229C	professorborgese@aol.com
Deutsch	V-229F	jdeutsch@kbcc.cuny.edu
Graziano	V-229B	rgraziano@kbcc.cuny.edu
Marshall	V229H	lmarshall@kbcc.cuny.edu
Schulman	V226B	sschulman@kbcc.cuny.edu
Troudt	V229L	etroudt@kbcc.cuny.edu
Winkler	V229A	cwinkler@kbcc.cuny.edu

Adjunct Faculty

Professor	E-mail
Anfolisi	monet73c@yahoo.com
Bonn	laurel48@aol.com
Cavallaro	gramby@webtv.net
Gaglia	tgaglia@aol.com
Ingraham	ssi201@nyu.edu
Martin	mnmziz@nye.edu
Mosely	dmmosley@cox.net
O’Brien	patrickobrien@mindspring.com
Paduano, A,	profapaduano@aol.com
Paduano, J.	profjbette@aol.com
Storz	profstorz@aol.com
Wayler	kwyler@ustrust.com
Zalkin	smzalkin@hotmail.com

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The Institute for Virtual Enterprise (IVE)

The Institute for Virtual Enterprise is a CUNY-wide special initiative that started in the Tourism and Hospitality Department at Kingsborough. Students at nearly every CUNY campus are taking Virtual Enterprise classes and participating in events, competitions, travel experiences, seminars and internships. There are prizes and stipends for many activities.

IVE welcomes and gives special priority to Tourism and Hospitality students. Some ways to get involved include the following:

Leadership Course and Activities
Global Expo
The Nature of New York
Urban Art
Entrepreneurship
Community Renewal
Financial Literacy
Travel and Trade Fairs
Career Development

To get more information about these activities and upcoming events, take a look at the IVE website: www.ive.kbcc.cuny.edu.

Mission Statement of Kingsborough Community College

(Working draft – 1/4/05)

Kingsborough Community College of The City University of New York is a comprehensive community college providing both liberal arts and career education. It is dedicated to promoting student learning and development as well as strengthening and serving its diverse community. To these ends, we strive to fulfill the following goals:

To offer an excellent general education to all degree students.
To provide programs of study for those intending to transfer and those seeking immediate employment.
To develop students’ competence in written and oral communication, quantitative skills, critical thinking, research, and technological literacy.
To promote life-long learning opportunities in credit and non-credit programs for the traditional and non-traditional student.
To provide a range of services that support student success.
To respond to the educational, cultural, and economic needs of the communities we serve.

Kingsborough Community College is fully accredited and approved by the Commission of Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Final Thought

We hope this Handbook will serve as a helpful tool in navigating your way through KCC. Remember, if you need assistance, ask someone.

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