Some spend a summer with us and some spend years with us. Regardless of your journey, we want to always prepare you for the next steps in your journey within the hospitality industry.
Valeria Soto Suarez
Role at MPR:
FOH F&B, J1 Trainee | 2025
What are you up to now?
I just returned to my home country of Peru after finishing 12 wonderful months as a trainee in the U.S.A. I look forward to applying all of that knowledge to my local community and continue to grow personally and professionally.
What's your favorite Mackinac Island Memory?
I remember a day when one of our guests were celebrating their birthday, and Mackinac Island gifted us one of its breathtaking sunsets. We came together as a team, carefully chose a special spot in our restaurant, and sang “Happy Birthday” with so much joy. We sang in different languages, coming from different parts of the world, but at that moment, we were all connected. By the end of the evening, they were no longer just guests, they had become part of our hearts and our new friends.
What advice would you share with a future MPR employee?
Mission Point is not just a place to work, it's a group of people who become your family throughout the season. Mutual respect is the fundamental foundation for creating the best experience for every team member.
Role at MPR:
FOH F&B, J1 Trainee | 2025
What are you up to now?
I just returned to my home country of Peru after finishing 12 wonderful months as a trainee in the U.S.A. I look forward to applying all of that knowledge to my local community and continue to grow personally and professionally.
What's your favorite Mackinac Island Memory?
I remember a day when one of our guests were celebrating their birthday, and Mackinac Island gifted us one of its breathtaking sunsets. We came together as a team, carefully chose a special spot in our restaurant, and sang “Happy Birthday” with so much joy. We sang in different languages, coming from different parts of the world, but at that moment, we were all connected. By the end of the evening, they were no longer just guests, they had become part of our hearts and our new friends.
What advice would you share with a future MPR employee?
Mission Point is not just a place to work, it's a group of people who become your family throughout the season. Mutual respect is the fundamental foundation for creating the best experience for every team member.
Marissa Munoz
Roles at MPR:
Retail Coordinator | 2022
Conference Services Coordinator | 2023
Now: Event Coordinator, Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi, Michigan
What's your favorite Mackinac Island memory?
One of my favorite memories from Mackinac Island was the combination of the friendships I formed and the meaningful events I had the opportunity to help bring to life at Mission Point. Living and working on the island created such a special sense of community, and many of the people I met there remain close friends today. I especially loved being part of the weddings and seeing everything come together after so much planning! One of my favorite moments was watching the couple enter their reception space for the first time and seeing their reaction when they saw how everything had come together. It was always rewarding to know that it took an entire team - from the Mission Point staff to the vendors - to create such a special moment for them. Those experiences are something I’ll always remember!
What advice would you share with a future MPR employee?
Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and get involved. Mission Point is such a unique place where you can grow both personally and professionally. The experience helped shape my career in the events industry, and the relationships and skills I gained there continue to benefit me today.
Roles at MPR:
Retail Coordinator | 2022
Conference Services Coordinator | 2023
Now: Event Coordinator, Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi, Michigan
What's your favorite Mackinac Island memory?
One of my favorite memories from Mackinac Island was the combination of the friendships I formed and the meaningful events I had the opportunity to help bring to life at Mission Point. Living and working on the island created such a special sense of community, and many of the people I met there remain close friends today. I especially loved being part of the weddings and seeing everything come together after so much planning! One of my favorite moments was watching the couple enter their reception space for the first time and seeing their reaction when they saw how everything had come together. It was always rewarding to know that it took an entire team - from the Mission Point staff to the vendors - to create such a special moment for them. Those experiences are something I’ll always remember!
What advice would you share with a future MPR employee?
Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and get involved. Mission Point is such a unique place where you can grow both personally and professionally. The experience helped shape my career in the events industry, and the relationships and skills I gained there continue to benefit me today.
Lexie Stypelkoski
Roles at MPR:
PR & Marketing Coordinator | 2022 - 2026
Now: Hospitality Marketing in San Diego
What's your favorite Mackinac Island memory?
How do you pick just one? Working year-round, I found a true love in the winter months. The community is already close but in the winter it becomes something different I can't even describe - it's a feeling of belonging you can only experience for yourself.
During the peak season, I enjoyed watercolor painting in Marquette Park, watching the sunsets and biking around the whole island. My favorite events that I worked at Mission Point were Opening Receptions and Yacht Race Parties. Both requiring unbelievable amounts of work from all departments - the teamwork was inspiring and so rewarding when it was all said and done.
What advice would you share with a future MPR employee?
The opportunities presented to you at Mission Point are those of growth (professionally and personally).
My advice is to expand your network - having friends all over the island can be a life saver! Also, life on the island can be challenging but the reward is oh so sweet. Surrounded by fresh water on all sides, perfect sunsets day after day and endless hiking trails. Just don't forget to call your mom or guardian - it is easy to get caught up and they want to know all about your adventures!
Roles at MPR:
PR & Marketing Coordinator | 2022 - 2026
Now: Hospitality Marketing in San Diego
What's your favorite Mackinac Island memory?
How do you pick just one? Working year-round, I found a true love in the winter months. The community is already close but in the winter it becomes something different I can't even describe - it's a feeling of belonging you can only experience for yourself.
During the peak season, I enjoyed watercolor painting in Marquette Park, watching the sunsets and biking around the whole island. My favorite events that I worked at Mission Point were Opening Receptions and Yacht Race Parties. Both requiring unbelievable amounts of work from all departments - the teamwork was inspiring and so rewarding when it was all said and done.
What advice would you share with a future MPR employee?
The opportunities presented to you at Mission Point are those of growth (professionally and personally).
My advice is to expand your network - having friends all over the island can be a life saver! Also, life on the island can be challenging but the reward is oh so sweet. Surrounded by fresh water on all sides, perfect sunsets day after day and endless hiking trails. Just don't forget to call your mom or guardian - it is easy to get caught up and they want to know all about your adventures!