ORLANDO, FL – Paulina Manta always knew her path would lead to the heart of the restaurant industry. Her journey from a small town in South Florida to a promising career is proof that with passion and perseverance, dreams can be turned into reality.

“Growing up in Cooper City with a father who’d been working in restaurants for over 25 years, I naturally fell into his footsteps after he got me my first restaurant job,” Manta recalled. This early start sparked a passion that carried her through Rosen College, where she earned her degree in restaurant and foodservice management in May 2024. Along the way, she found not just an education but a true community. “What I loved about Rosen was the overwhelming amount of support, guidance, and resources provided by the staff. Every interaction felt personalized,” she said, reflecting on her college experience.

After completing her internship, Manta embarked on a manager-in-training program at LongHorn Steakhouse earlier this year, preparing to fully step into the role of restaurant manager. “I hope to take [this road] as far as I can, possibly becoming a managing partner at some point,” she shared, eager to continue growing within Darden’s restaurant brands.

Reflecting on her journey, Manta is especially grateful for the connections she made along the way. “What I enjoyed most was learning something new every day… [and] the connections I made with the management and staff at my store,” she said, highlighting the dynamic and team-oriented nature of the industry.

To her peers, Manta offers this advice: “Never give up or be too hard on yourself. This industry is difficult to work in, but the rewards are worth all of the blood, sweat, and tears.”

Manta’s journey at Rosen College is a shining example of where passion, hard work, and the right support can take you. As she continues to carve out her career, she inspires not just her peers, but anyone looking to make their mark in the world of restaurant and foodservice management. If that sounds like you, be sure to check out our degree program in Foodservice and Lodging Management, and experience all that Rosen College has to offer during an Open House or campus visit.

Stay tuned for more stories in our Rosen Knight Highlight series, where we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students and alumni, proving that with passion and perseverance, the possibilities are endless.