Melinda - My Academic Journey at UCLan

Hello, I’m Melinda a 22 year old student from Hong Kong. I was studying in Singapore for the past four years at Informatics Academy. Last year I graduated from the University of Central Lancashire with a BA (Hons) Management in Hospitality. Upon graduating I relocated to Shanghai, sending out my curriculum vitae to several employers. I found it challenging trying to find a job; however, through previous work experience, including a 6-month internship at the Singapore Mandarin Orchard hotel and knowledge gained during my degree, I managed to receive offers from Shanghai Disney resort and the Marriott City Centre Hotel. I really enjoy working at the Marriott Hotel in the executive lounge. I am enthusiastic to carry out my role and liaise with clients and guests. Initially I found the role challenging and it required me to think on my feet and adapt my problem solving skills. My manager and colleagues encouraged me throughout the process and after a short time I adapted to my new working environment and my confidence grew. In December 2015, one evening at work brought a very pleasant surprise! I was on the front desk and was amazed to see Louisa Jones, my professor from UCLan who awarded me my graduation certificate. We were both delighted to meet each other again and I told her my plans and visions for my future career.

First Year International Hospitality Management students put learning into practice

First Year International Hospitality Management students put their learning into practice when they cooked and served two dinners for invited guests, family and friends. Over the year, they learn practical cookery and serving skills alongside the academic theory, each week practising a different element of a three course meal culminating in the two dinners. Head Chef Noel Emms and Module Tutor Jackie Cunningham were on hand to supervise, encourage and motivate the students in the kitchen and front-of-house and they were very pleased with the result. Jackie said: