A conversation about studies and practice with a SHMS student from Sweden
Hello, Mohammad! Why do you think the hotel and restaurant industry suits you best professionally?
I have always found man to be the most interesting book to learn from. I am fascinated by how different people think and behave. In the hotel and restaurant industry, we work with and meet new people every day. Being such a social person, a career in the hotel and restaurant industry is the most exciting path for me.
What do you find exciting about studying at SHMS – Swiss Hotel Management School?
Firstly, SHMS is a very big brand in this industry, which I am really happy about as I have plans to start my own business in the future. Not only do I get to learn from the best, but I also have the chance to start my career in some of the most prominent hotels in the world and network with potential future clients, employers or partners. I have no doubt that my education and what comes with it will give me a good start when I open my own business.
Secondly, studying in the middle of Europe means you can travel to some fantastic neighboring countries in your spare time. At the same time, this education gives you plenty of opportunities to work all over the world and build an international career if that’s something that interests you.
Do you enjoy living on the Caux campus?
The view from Caux is the most beautiful I have ever seen in my entire life. The facility itself looks like a castle, and for me it is a dream to live in such an environment. When I was young I watched a lot of Harry Potter and I really wanted to study at Hogwarts. I guess I can now say that I have!
What are the advantages of studying in Switzerland?
When you apply for a job outside of Switzerland, the company will immediately know that the quality of your skills and education is high. This is what makes Switzerland special – they offer the best training in the hotel and restaurant industry.
How are the teachers at SHMS?
Each teacher is very unique, but all are passionate about what they do and are very knowledgeable in their respective subjects.
What is the best memory so far from your studies at SHMS?
I had so much fun at the welcome party the school organized. I met so many people and made so many friends that day. A way to start the first semester with new friends and positive energy!
Has your university helped you in your search for your current internship?
Yes, SHMS holds an annual recruitment event where students can meet representatives of some of the most prominent hospitality brands in the world. In fact, that’s how I got the chance to talk to several 5-star hotels, including the one I’m currently interning at in Cyprus, and show that I’m a motivated student eager to work and gain experience.
How has your current internship improved you as a professional so far?
I have learned to become a better listener, a better communicator and thus a better leader.
What are the advantages of doing an internship in Cyprus?
There are so many fun activities that you can do in your spare time in Cyprus! Here I love going to the beach, jet skiing and hiking in the mountains. I have also visited the various nearby islands and tried skydiving, which I will definitely remember for the rest of my life.
What difference do you hope to make in your field in the future?
I want to start my own business and open a sustainable hotel. My vision is for us to be plastic-free, use only clean energy and minimize our carbon footprint in other ways. For example, I would choose cleaning products for the hotel that are made from natural ingredients such as vinegar and lemon, and I would choose a location near a train or bus station to encourage my guests to travel by public transport rather than by car.
In the restaurant, I would have as many vegetarian options as there would be meat dishes. I would even encourage people to choose vegetarian meals by offering free desserts as a reward for helping make the world a better place.
I also want to educate people about the issues that concern our planet. Therefore, I would present reports on, for example, how much water and electricity are used per guest to enable them to make informed decisions.
Wow, looks like you’ve already put a lot of thought into it!
Clearly. I think it’s very important to think about how to make the world a little bit better, and I think a lot of people care and want to see companies do that too. That’s why my future company will also donate a portion of the proceeds to people in need.
There are many people who unfortunately do not have proper living conditions, not to mention opportunities to realize their full potential. I know how it feels to not have food at home, and it is the worst thing that can happen to a person, especially a child.
I had the opportunity to follow my dream and study at one of the best hotel schools in the world. I long to help someone else achieve their dreams as well.
Thank you, Mohamad, for sharing an important message! Good luck with your future endeavors, and don’t forget to invite us to the opening of your hotel!
