Life in Hotel Industry: An International Perspective
Harleen Bedi | Shiksha.com
Ankit Malik is a student of IAM-IHM Goa (2006-09) and finished his final year from Napier University, Scotland. Soon after completing his studies, he worked for different hotel chains in the UK. In 2010, he joined Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts in London and worked there for 3 years. Presently he is working for Jumeirah Dubai, and is also pursuing Masters in Hospitality Management alongside.
We talk to him about his work and life in the hospitality industry. Here is what he had to say about his studies and job.
Q. What made you take up hotel management course?
During my childhood days, I had the privilege of travelling around the country, making new friends and interacting with people from different backgrounds and cultures because of the transferable nature of my parents' job. Serving people with quality, glamor and style became my dream and passion. And what better way to fulfil my dreams than joining the Hospitality industry? So here I am.
Q. What were the years like while studying in India and UK?
Both the countries have completely different educational systems. The Indian colleges stress more on class related work and learning, while the British system's focus is on research methods and self studies.
Q. Did you intern in India? How was working for an Indian hotel chain like?
Yes, I did my Internship at The Oberoi, New Delhi- It's second to none. I learned the basics of hotel industry by working in the 4 core departments (Front Office, Accommodation Operation, Food and Bevarage and Kitchen) during my internship at The Oberoi.
Q. How did you prepare for the journey to the UK?
Frankly speaking, I did not prepare anything for my journey to the UK. We were about 20 people from college who flew together to London. All I can remember is that I was very close to missing my flight because of the crazy traffic jam in the city!
A handy tip: Do not buy jackets/woollens from India as they are not made to keep out the super cold breeze of the British winters. It is better to buy your winter wear from the UK itself.
Q. Tell us about your first day on job.
On the first day of my job at The Radisson Hotel in Scotland, I was privileged to be a part of the food and beverage team who served at one of the private parties of the very famous JK Rowling and some of her close friends.
Q. Did you experience a culture shock during the initial days?
Yes I did. Back in Scotland I found it really hard to understand their accent and their way of living. But as time flies, you get used to it.
By the way, there are some really nice curry houses in the UK and their food, especially chicken tikka masala, is something to die for.
Q. How is it living on your own?
Something you must experience in your life! It makes you self sufficient and self dependant as you have to do your own laundry and clean your own utensils.
Q. How much of London did you explore?
London is a place close to my heart. It's a multicultural city with loads to explore. I explored it to such an extent that all the stations on the tube map are literally on my fingertips!
Q. What tips or suggestions will you give to future hospitality students?
If you don't want to be a doctor or an engineer, go for the hospitality industry. It's a glamorous and extravagant sector; you just need to be passionate about it.
Q. How will you describe your experience in the hotel industry till now?
My experience in the hotel industry has been absolutely phenomenal so far. The best part about my job is that there is no such thing as a 'typical day'. Every morning I come to work with a thrill for the unknown and the passion to assist the guests who expect a certain level of service. I have to deal with a mix of overwhelmingly joyous and unfortunately upset guests.We in the hotel industry are known to create the 'moments of truth' for our guests.
