Izzy’s radiant smile lit up the room as he admired his reflection after mastering tying a tie. “It feels so good,” the Drummond Culinary Academy student beamed, exuding the confidence of a Hollywood star straight out of GQ.
Thanks to the Monterey County Hospitality Association, 40 DCA students like Izzy had the opportunity to dive headfirst into a world of professional development and style at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa.
From setting up LinkedIn profiles to mastering the perfect interview, students soaked up wisdom from seasoned experts and coaches, preparing to shine in the competitive job market.
Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals, students were outfitted in sleek business attire. Every detail, from sharp suits and ties to elegant skirts and pantsuits, was crafted to inspire confidence.
Every garment received personalized attention from a skilled tailor, ensuring a flawless fit.
As they say, “It takes a village.”
We thank our amazing volunteers and the Plaza Hotel staff for their invaluable support and dedication to our students. Samuel Arevalo has an extra special place in our hearts. The Rancho Cielo Youth Corps Program graduate has been the hotel’s engineering manager for eight years. 
Arevalo moved from Michoacán, Mexico, to Salinas when he was 15. He says he doesn’t know where he’d be today without the tools he received at Rancho Cielo.
The students who attended the Clothing Drive & Mock Interview will return to the Monterey Plaza Hotel in a month for a job fair, where real employers will interview them! Now, they’ll be prepared and look like a million bucks!
