Her Campus: When did you start at KAM’S?
Jimmy Martin: I started February of my Freshman year.
HC: How have you been promoted at KAM’S throughout the years?
JM: At KAM’S you start pretty low and you have to earn your stripes. I was a doorman for about two years, and a bar back for a year. From bar back I was promoted straight to manager.
HC: When you first started, did you ever think you would be promoted to a manager position?
JM: Well, I always had hopes and the thought in my mind that I could reach that position.
HC: What advice would you give to aspiring bartenders and workers at KAM’S?
JM: Well, usually try to be a cooler person. We take pride in the people we hire, and we like to have a good time. If anything, have a good work ethic. It’s a lot more fun than a normal job.
HC: Have you learned things while being a manager that you can use in the future?
JM: It’s definitely not the normal job, but I’ve learned a lot about management and how to run a business. The liquor industry is very different and involves inventory management and keeping track of the staff. Running the bar from 8 p.m. until close, especially in this town, things can get interesting.
HC: What were some of your responsibilities while president of Sigma Chi?
JM: Watching over the charter of the house is the biggest thing, in addition to controlling guys who are your best friends. Making sure everyone knows their limits and making sure the house runs smoothly for the entire year. It was a difficult task, but definitely a lot of fun.
HC: Does being manager at KAM’S ever have an affect on your school or social life?
JM: It definitely promoted my social life, but it definitely didn’t assist my academics. It taught me time management if anything.
HC: What are you studying now and what are your plans after college?
JM: I’m studying International Business. Right now my plans are to move out to California because both my brothers live there and are in the entertainment industry. My older brother went to UCLA and my younger brother is studying Film at the University of Southern California. I wanted the fundamental business background so I came to UofI and loved it. Even if it’s a low position, I have some interviews scheduled during winter break, so hopefully it goes well.