About Sweet Sinsations
Sweet Sinsations, located on the first floor of the Lory Student Center, Colorado State University, is well known for its bakery items, coffee drinks, smoothies and personalized customer service. Established in the mid 1980s as part of a major Dining Services renovation, this popular self operated retail shop completed a second renovation in August 2008.
New countertops, ceiling, flooring, paint, lighting and equipment transformed Sweet Sinsations from a 1950’s ice cream shop décor to an environment that highlights sustainable food service practices. Extensive planning to ensure the most efficient work space for employees and a smooth traffic flow for customers were priorities for the Sweet Sinsations Renovation Committee. Comprised of students, classified staff and faculty, the ten member committee worked diligently to complete the project on time and under budget.
An internship program, designed to provide students with hands-on experience in managing a retail food operation, has become the cornerstone of Sweet Sinsation's success. Student managers enrolled in the Restaurant Resort Management Program are eligible to receive three credits per semester for their work. Managers are responsible for all phases of the operation including budget development, cost accounting, staff development, and food safety and sanitation. Operating solely with student staff, the shop utilizes employee talents in all fields of study. Employees are encouraged to create weekly specialty drinks and to offer suggestions on how to improve sales and reduce costs. Customer service is always a priority at Sweet Sinsations and planned or spontaneous customer appreciation promotions occur on a regular basis.
With support from the administration and academic areas at Colorado State University, the popularity of this internship program has increased every year since its inception nine years ago. In today’s economy, word is spreading that a few semesters at Sweet Sinsations, just might land you a “real” job.