The Benefits of Studying at B.H.M.S.
Why study hospitality? B.H.M.S. graduate and 2019 valedictorian Maria Rebeiz Henriques, who currently works in Business Development & Staffing at BCG Platinion, shares how her studies in Switzerland set her on her path to success.
I grew up in the world of hospitality. As a small child, I used to help out at my family's business. What always stayed with me was the sense of empowerment that comes from creating amazing experiences for customers. A profound desire and passion to work with people was ignited in me, and since I always wanted to explore different cultures, it's no wonder that I chose to study at an international hospitality school!
Life at B.H.M.S.
In my first year at B.H.M.S., I remember wishing I could grow more limbs as I struggled to carry three plates at once in Service Class. Looking back, I know that these challenging, hands-on classes are what make B.H.M.S. so special; they provided me with practical knowledge and know-how alongside theory.
“I graduated knowing more about different cultures and diversity than most people my age and having built fantastic friendships along the way.”
For me, balancing studying with various hobbies and exercises was extremely important – Lucerne and B.H.M.S. have so much to offer in the way of activities. Running by the lake is one of the most breathtaking sports you could ever practise. I also did yoga and made sure to read at least one book a week. And of course, I’d go out with my friends, because you’ve got to let your hair down from time to time!
B.H.M.S. is such a diverse environment, and I am extremely grateful that I had the chance to study alongside students from 95 wonderful and diverse countries. I graduated knowing more about different cultures and diversity than most people my age and having built fantastic friendships along the way.
From theory to practice
Applying the theory you’ve spent so much time studying to the real world is such an exciting experience. The internships allow you to do just this - all the knowledge you’ve gained is put to the test and built on during your work experience!
During my two internships at B.H.M.S., I discovered the importance of hospitality in high-end luxury retail companies. As in hospitality, customer service extends well beyond hotels or restaurants… it is and should be in every field where service is required. My second internship was particularly illuminating in this area. I wanted to challenge myself by working with high-end customers in retail luxury, so I went to all the retail boutiques in Switzerland that I wanted to work at and gave them my CV in person. I was fortunate to be given a position at the fashion house, Chanel.
“Customer service extends well beyond hotels or restaurants… it is and should be in every field where service is required.”
At Chanel, I was working directly with customers, which made my days extremely satisfying and fulfilling. It gives me so much joy to make other people feel special by providing a service that is personal and friendly, and my time at Chanel challenged me to find new ways to provide the best experience possible for customers.
Pursuing passion
The greatest aspect of our field is the people. Communication, experiences, and interactions between ourselves and the guests are what makes working in hospitality so worthwhile. I have come to this understanding through the classes taught at B.H.M.S., and through having had the amazing opportunity to experience it firsthand during my internships.
“Passion is what gives you the potential for greatness. It cannot be taught. It can hardly be explained. But it can be lived, felt, and developed — and that is the core of the education that I completed at B.H.M.S.”
At B.H.M.S., I had the opportunity to grow, build character, and strengthen my weaknesses. Many moments inspired me during my time there, and I discovered and nurtured a passion for the industry. This passion is what matters, above all else; if you can find passion in what you do, you will undoubtedly make a difference.
Passion is what gives you the potential for greatness. It cannot be taught. It can hardly be explained. But it can be lived, felt, and developed —and that is the core of the education that I completed at B.H.M.S.
Discover other B.H.M.S. graduate success stories:
A Culinary Odyssey: From B.H.M.S. to Global Success
Unveiling Potential: From B.H.M.S. to Talent Development Excellence