Keara Street

Kearra Street grew up in a military household, moving every four to five years. At age 10, Kearra moved to Okinawa Japan, where she pursued her middle and high school studies. After graduating from Kubaski High School, she moved to Florida to join her mom who had already relocated to the United States.

Kearra was determined to study Business Administration with a concentration in Communications in college. However, after speaking with an admissions counselor at Keiser University, her career pathways plans quickly changed. The counselor suggested that, because of her personality, she may wish to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management. Kearra then spoke with an instructor. After several days of additional consideration, she opted for Hospitality Management. Of this change, Kearra says, “It took me on a much better path–better suited to me. I’ve met so many wonderful people and have had great experiences.”

At Keiser, Kearra further explored the hospitality industry via an internship at the Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk. There, she was immersed in a new department each week. Unbeknownst to her, this experience would provide excellent cross-training for her future job. When her internship led to time spent in the Accounting Department, she was hooked. “I thought I would gravitate toward sales, but I love the numbers in accounting and seeing how all parts of the hotel work together.”

Once her internship concluded, Kearra and a classmate chose to stay at the Southbank Hotel to work in the Banquet Department. She saw the inner-workings of back of the house operations and got to know many people individually. Then, a part-time opportunity opened in the Accounting Department which gradually led to a full-time position. Today, Kearra is an Accounts Payable Specialist.

Kearra graduated with an Associate of Science in Hospitality Management from Keiser University in 2018. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration with a Concentration in Hospitality Management.

Kearra emphasizes that working in a hotel involves much more than cleaning a room and providing a check in key. Being people-friendly, adaptable and impeccably organized is critical. Her specialty involves accounting and the ability to navigate the multiple internal computer systems used by the Southbank Hotel. Recalling where specific information is housed is also essential.

“I thought I was organized, but I found a better way to prioritize and track my work.” One of her adaptations includes using a daily planner. As a result, month end reports due to corporate and pending vendor bills are all completed and processed timely. Kearra says, “It’s important to find something you enjoy. You’re crunching numbers but you’re also maintaining relationships with vendors, colleagues and individuals at the corporate level.”

Kearra’s childhood experiences afforded her many opportunities to find a home in the world. Now, she is centered in Jacksonville and has found another home in the hospitality industry. She notes, “My experiences with travel and being part of different cultures definitely help me in my career today.”

jaguars.com/careers.