<p><span class="p-body">&nbsp;&quot;Bright, creative, enthusiastic, dynamic, and inspiring&quot; were just a few of the words used to describe the exceptional students who participated in Integrated Marketing &amp; Communication's <i>Marketing Challenge: Destination NYC</i>. The NYU SPS Department of Integrated Marketing and Communications, in collaboration with the Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality and Bridge Hotel Group, drew 70+ students from across SPS to develop a marketing plan for Bridge Hotel Group properties in key New York City neighborhoods.</span></p> <p><b data-rte-class="rte-temp"><span class="p-body">Top honors went to Divya Agrawal, David Delatorre, and James Hu, MS in Integrated Marketing students who impressed a distinguished panel of judges from Bridge Hotel Group with their well-researched, innovative, and feasible marketing strategies for hotels in the iconic Financial District. Exciting prizes for the team include participation in a mentorship program with executives from Bridge Hotel Group in summer 2025.</span></b></p> <p><span class="p-body">Delatorre has fostered a lifelong passion for the hospitality industry, which drew him into this opportunity, “Participating in this challenge has been a chance to bring that passion full circle—combining my love for travel and hospitality with my passion for marketing and brand development. It’s been incredibly rewarding to apply that passion not just individually, but collaboratively with a team that shares the same drive to create meaningful, guest-centered experiences.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Hu added that through the challenge he gained a deeper understanding of hotel marketing strategy, and that working alongside Bridge Hotel Group will take the experience to the next level. “I get to learn from seasoned mentors who understand both the operations and creative aspects of hospitality marketing. It’s a unique opportunity to receive feedback on ideas, refine my thinking, and collaborate with people passionate about shaping exceptional guest experiences. Ultimately, I’m excited by the potential to contribute meaningfully through fresh ideas, strategic insights, or just bringing energy and curiosity to every meeting. This mentorship isn’t just a prize, it’s also a launching pad for my future in marketing and so much more.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Divya Agrawal and her team met during their first semester, but it wasn’t until they worked together in courses like <i>Campaign I: Strategy &amp; Execution</i> and <i>Finance for Marketing Decisions</i> that they became closer. “The three of us realized we planned to pursue the digital marketing track and shared an interest in the hospitality industry, so teaming up felt natural. Though we have different work styles, our strengths complement each other well. Each tactic we developed was backed by data, hours of research, and brainstorming. We are not your typical team: a little chaotic, always creative, and incredibly driven. But that's what makes us work so well together!”</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>