Joci Fok, a Hong Kong student currently enrolled in the Hotel Management programme at the Macao University of Tourism (UTM), had already set her sights on a career in hospitality during her secondary school years. It was this clear goal that naturally led her to UTM—a university with an outstanding international reputation that, for her, strikes the ideal balance between academic rigour and practical experience.
Where Global Reputation Meets Hands-On Learning
“What attracted me most was the programme’s strong balance between academic theory and practical training,” Joci explains. "The internship placements and hands-on modules, combined with UTM’s international partnerships, convinced me that this was the right place to build my career.”
UTM’s excellence in tourism education is consistently recognised on the global stage. Ranked 13th worldwide in the “Hospitality and Leisure Management” category by the QS World University Rankings 2025, UTM’s strong industry connections and international outlook provide students not only with solid practical skills but also with valuable exposure to how different markets operate.
Learning by Doing: From Front Office Role-Play to Real-World Confidence
For Joci, the weekly practical classes during her first year were a highlight of her learning journey. These sessions immersed students in real-life operational scenarios—from simulating front desk check-in procedures to rotating through housekeeping and kitchen duties. Each exercise honed her skills and, just as importantly, built her confidence.
“Those sessions helped me build real operational skills and confidence,” she recalls. Group projects added another layer, teaching her to solve problems collaboratively and coordinate under time pressure—abilities that are essential in the fast-paced hospitality industry.
Her strong performance earned Joci a 50% tuition scholarship from UTM. This recognition not only provided financial support but also became a powerful motivator for continued growth. “This scholarship is the greatest encouragement,” she shares. “It allows me to focus more on my studies and motivates me to maintain good grades. It also pushes me to take the initiative in group projects and extracurricular activities.”
Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone: Embracing Challenges at Les Roches
Driven by a desire to broaden her horizons, Joci applied for an exchange programme at the Les Roches Global Hospitality Education in Switzerland. The school’s global reputation in hospitality management, the positive feedback on its practical training and career support, and its truly international campus environment all appealed to her.
Adapting to a new environment, however, was not without its challenges. Joci openly shares her experience: “At first, the food, schedule, and daily routines were all different. I missed my family and everything familiar.”
Through regular calls home and active participation in campus and social activities, Joci gradually established a new rhythm. Within a few weeks, the unfamiliar surroundings began to feel comfortable. This experience taught her resilience, patience, and the true value of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
Reflecting on her journey, Joci has a clear message for students from Hong Kong considering a similar path. “Be proactive. Take on tasks in practical classes and group projects. The more you do, the more confident and skilled you will become. Also, keep an open mind. You will meet classmates from different backgrounds—learn from them, practice cross-cultural communication. This is an invaluable asset in the hospitality industry.”
For those considering UTM, she affirms the quality of its education: “For students who aspire to build a career in hospitality, UTM is the best choice.”