Born and raised in Macao, Fiona Ian Hio Tong is a Bachelor graduate in Tourism Event Management Programme at the Macao University of Tourism (UTM). She originally planned to pursue overseas studies after senior high school but opted to stay in Macao due to budget and safety concerns. Over four years of rigorous practical training, she completed a semester-long exchange programme in France and had an in-person conversation with Director Xia Baolong during a campus event. Upon graduation, she intends to return to France for a Master’s degree in luxury brand and event management, aspiring to build a career in high-end event planning.
“I chose UTM primarily for its renowned expertise in events and hospitality. As an international tourism and leisure hub, Macao boasts abundant industrial resources that enable learning closely aligned with real-world industry settings,” said Fiona. The university’s integration of academic theories and practical training was her core reason for enrolment. Its wide range of overseas exchange opportunities allowed her to broaden global horizons without leaving Macao, leading her to drop her initial plan to study abroad.
Group Event Projects Build Cherished Teamwork Memories
In her second and third academic years, Fiona’s class was tasked with planning and executing full-scale events from scratch, marking her most unforgettable university experience. She took part in every stage spanning preliminary preparation, workflow design and on-site implementation, gaining hands-on experience covering all operational links of catering and entertainment events.
“By participating fully in event planning and execution, I gained genuine insights into all pre-event preparations and complete workflows for catering and entertainment activities and accumulated valuable practical know-how. Though disagreements arose among teammates, constant negotiation helped me master coordination and tolerance and forge lasting friendships with many classmates.”
“Structured curricula, case studies and industry practice including event organisation and corporate internships equip students with practical capabilities beyond textbooks,” Fiona added. Training in industrial analysis, detail management and risk control cultivated at UTM helped her quickly grasp corporate operations and adapt to workplace duties during internships.
Outside class, a passionate music lover, Fiona is an active member of the Music Society, taking part in diverse club performances. Her passion for music nurtures her temperament and creativity, facilitates holistic personal growth and brings her like-minded friends.
Inspired by French Exchange, Heading to Europe for Postgraduate Studies
Thanks to UTM’s exchange programme, Fiona studied in France for one semester, immersing herself in local culture, luxury fashion industries and international event operations. The experience motivated her to pursue a Master’s programme specialising in luxury brand management and events in France after graduation.
“I hope systematic postgraduate studies can deepen my expertise and international experience, laying a solid foundation for my future career focused on high-end event design and luxury brand activity management.”
As graduation draws near, Fiona feels grateful for her choice of UTM and offers advice to fellow students: “While keeping up with studies, step out of classrooms and embrace diverse experiences fearlessly. Be proactive and open to challenges. Apart from knowledge, you will meet peers sharing your aspirations and priceless growth opportunities; your devotion will bring rewards beyond expectation.”