By Ms Pearl Fernandes for BISMumbai

The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) conducted a Career counselling session in Hospitality Management on 4 August 2023, for the students of Grade 12 at  Don Bosco Junior College, Yerwada, Pune.

IIHM is part of the IndiSmart Group, a large conglomerate that operates IndiSmart Hotels and offers a wide range of services in the fields of Hospitality Management Education, Training, and Consultancy in India and Southeast Asia.  Through its collaboration with the University of West London, IIHM provides discerning students with the opportunity to be trained in globally recognised skills and earn an International Degree in Hospitality Management.

Ms Pearl Fernandes welcomed the esteemed resource persons from IIHM Pune, Mr. Rupinder Singh Khurana, Director, and his team.  Mr Khurana explained to the students the various aspects of Hotel and Hospitality Management as well as current trends in the hospitality industry. Mr Tamal Das, Senior Business Development Manager at IIHM, spoke about the facilities and opportunities at IIHM Pune. He spoke of its international curriculum and progressive teaching methodology, hotel school advantage, state of the art infrastructure on all campuses, training, and job-placements. 

"It is only today that I understand that Hospitality and Hotel Management are two different aspects; I always believed that the kitchen belongs solely to women. But today I realised that men can be master chefs. I, too, aspire to be one," remarked Mr Samson Tribhavan.

Following the informative session, students were given the opportunity to interact and ask questions. Ms Saroj Bagdi was brave enough to inquire about the financial status of the hospitality industry, whereas Mr Joyel Sable investigated the possibilities of a career in the hospitality industry for musicians, particularly singers. Students had a great time interacting with chefs and were given information on available courses, training periods, and placements. 

The career counselling session was a learning experience that taught students that this industry welcomes both men and women and allows them to be creative while serving with a joyful heart. Ms Apurva Singh, Marketing Executive at IIHM, promised students more hands-on learning opportunities at their vibrant campus. The young chefs are now eagerly awaiting the opportunity to compete in the Junior Chef Competition organised by IIHM Pune.