What should I do after my hotel and catering degree?

Question

I am in my final year at university studying for a degree in hotel and catering management. I have no idea what direction I want to go in, so I would like some advice.

I did a year's placement at Hilton and found that I didn't like working in restaurants and kitchens and in the housekeeping and conference and banqueting divisions. Cleaning and the pressure of working in a hot environment didn't suit me.

What I did enjoy was reception work and bar work. I liked meeting people and on the reception I liked sorting out problems, although I did find it quite demanding as I had to know everything about the hotel and the local area. I like the social side of bar work and meeting guests and regulars.

I really want to work abroad, maybe on a cruise ship, as I'd like to travel and meet people from different cultures. I think it would be interesting and a bit different from my previous experiences, but I have no idea what job I should go for. Do you have any ideas?

What the expert says

David Goldfarb, director, Mayday Executive

However, making a decision based on one yearÁ¢Â€Â™s placement may limit your choices in the future. You may wish to consider applying for a graduate training programme within one of the large hotel groups. This should give you more knowledge and experience in all areas of hotel work.

With regard to cruise liners, this type of work has obvious travel benefits. However, you need to understand that it is one of the toughest and most demanding areas of hospitality.