Jeremiah Xavier

Details

Retail Manager, Lowell General Hospital
Lowell, MA
Age: 24
Education: Framingham State University, Johnson and Wales University
Years at organization: 1

Why Selected?

According to Dudley Abbe, vice president of hospitality, Jeremiah has made an impact at Lowell by:

Get to know

Q. What has been your proudest accomplishment?

The amount of work and effort that went into preparation for the new cafeteria was impressive. It all came together because of my fellow managers and employees. I am most proud of the teamwork that made for a smooth and successful grand opening.

Q. What would you say you excel at over more seasoned colleagues?

One of my strengths is the ability to embrace change. In the six months I’ve been at the hospital, the cafeteria has had three different locations. The former emergency department housed the cafeteria for three months during construction until the renovation was completed. 

Q. What's the best career advice you've been given?

Quality over quantity. I applied this to working hours. It is important to give it your best effort at work but never spending [so] many hours at work [that you] eventually burn yourself out. 

Q. What's been the biggest challenge you've had to overcome?

Finding a job. I was extremely hard on myself because I was unable to find a position for almost two years. With little to no experience, many companies were not willing to hire me. 

Q. What's been your most rewarding moment?

Opening the new cafeteria. The place looks amazing and I hope to continue in the right steps so patrons can be amazed at the great quality product we provide. 

Q. What's been your funniest on-the-job disaster?

A few years back, when I was working at another hospital, I was preparing deli sandwiches for customers. While cleaning off the knife for the next sandwich, I wiped the knife with the blade facing my palm. Immediately, my palm began to bleed. Luckily, no one saw my hand and I quickly took care of the issue. I have never looked at a knife the same way. 

Q. What can you look back at now and laugh at?

When I was in college, I thought as a challenge I could become a vegetarian.  I was for a total of two years, but during my first week as a vegetarian, I was in a nutrition lab where I accidentally ate some chicken. Immediately, I had so much regret I’ve told very few people about this. 

What would you like to accomplish in your career short term?

I would like to continue developing my [abilities] so when the opportunity is available, I can advance within Sodexo.