Name: Hermelinda M.
Position: Public Area Attendant
Hotel: Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile

When Hermelinda talks about her first day at Marriott, she remembers the feeling before anything else. Excitement. Possibility. The quiet pride of earning her very first paycheck. 

She was just 16 years old when she started, stepping into housekeeping for what she calls her first real job. For a young woman finding her footing, the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile was not only a workplace. It was proof that her goals were within reach. “I felt that I was going to be able to achieve many personal goals because I was here earning a living,” she says. 

Learn more about Hermelinda’s 50-year Marriott journey, in her own words, below. 

What do you remember most about those first days at Marriott? 

It was my first job working for a large company, my first real job, really, and the first time I received a paycheck. I was very young; just 16 years old when I started so it was all very exciting and new for me.  

What was the most fun in the early days? 

During this time, Marriott staff hosted competitions where you could gain more rooms to clean and increase your pay after reaching your room quota. The competitions were so exciting and motivating for me! I thoroughly enjoyed how Marriott made it so that the work was enjoyable while giving us the opportunity to grow.  

What has been the biggest takeaway in your 50 years at Marriott? 

I met my partner in life working here. I was working in housekeeping, and he worked as a House Man at the time. We worked together for eight months, and after that point he went on to work at a different company. I stayed at Marriott and due to the friendships made at work, we kept in touch and eventually started dating. He became my husband three years after that. We went on to have six kids and are still together 45 years later. Without planning it, Marriott played a big role in my future and it continues to be a part of my life journey.  

In this journey you’ve had many different roles, what was your favorite? 

One of my favorite roles was working at the gift shop, it was a memorable time for me. Working with the staff and helping people with their needs during their stay.  I always enjoy seeing the hotel full of people and seeing people coming and going. I enjoy being part of the front of the house staff too and being of service to people, visitors, and being a part of all the changes that Marriott has undergone over the years.  

What has been your proudest moment in your career? 

There isn’t just one; it is my everyday philosophy on how I approach work. I always enjoy coming to work with a positive attitude and getting ready to take on the day. I hope that I am remembered for always doing my best because I enjoy finishing the workday, accomplishing all my tasks and doing a thorough job. I tend to go above and beyond regardless of the task at hand, and I feel proud of my work and my accomplishments at the end of each day.  

What advice do you have for those interested in working at Marriott?

Always give your best. We are in the hospitality business; we are a public facing business, and it is necessary to always put your best foot forward at every opportunity. 

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