Born and raised in Macao, Nick Chan Chi Lek grew up surrounded by numerous five-star resorts and visitors from all over the world amid a thriving hospitality landscape. Inspired by the industry, he opted to pursue the Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management programme at the Macao University of Tourism (UTM).
The university’s unique educational philosophy was his core reason for enrolment. “UTM aligns its curriculum closely with industry trends by balancing theoretical learning and hands-on practice through real-case teaching, enabling students to systematically build professional expertise efficiently and match my academic and career aspirations.”
Competing Globally and Gaining Insights from Internship
One of Nick’s most cherished university memories was representing Macao and UTM at prestigious vocational competitions. He took part in WorldSkills Lyon 2024 in France and the 4th Guangdong Provincial Vocational Skills Competition. After daily classes, he underwent intensive training and joined workshops alongside fellow contestants and industry specialists in Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Hengqin. With full backing from UTM and his internship employer MGM, he was awarded the Medallion for Excellence at WorldSkills and the second prize in the provincial contest. “Preparations were full of hurdles, yet the robust support from the university and my internship firm allowed me to focus fully on training.”
Nick completed a six-month internship in MGM’s Learning & Development Department. During his placement, he gained in-depth insights into corporate culture and job responsibilities, forged close friendships with cross-departmental colleagues, and cherished experience sharing at the internship graduation ceremony. The academic knowledge and practical competencies acquired at UTM laid a solid foundation for his competitions and internship duties.
Four-year Nurturing Fuels Holistic Personal Development
“UTM has equipped me with solid theoretical grounding and practical know-how. Diversified courses and professional training have sharpened my logical thinking, helping me mature into a composed and industry-ready practitioner.” Over four years of undergraduate study, the university opened doors to various industry exchanges, allowing Nick to keep abreast of worldwide hospitality trends and build an extensive global professional network.
Upon graduation, Nick intends to further his postgraduate studies at the University of Queensland, ranked 42nd in the QS World University Rankings, majoring in Master of Tourism, Hotel and Event Management. Renowned for outstanding academic credentials and industry standing, the university’s syllabus integrates cutting-edge theories and up-to-date industry research. “Postgraduate studies will deepen my expertise, broaden my global outlook and enhance all-round capabilities, which will greatly facilitate my future career advancement.”
Looking back on his university journey, Nick heartily recommends UTM to prospective applicants: “The abundant professional resources and developmental opportunities offered by UTM exceed expectations, making it an ideal platform for self-improvement and goal fulfilment.”