The Msc in Hospitality and Tourism Management has been an amazing experience. It provided a great opportunity to meet different stakeholders and to learn from tourism leaders in an international environment. The curriculum has a very practical focus, is dynamic and consistent within the industry needs, addressing its current challenges and looking forward to trends and future issues. Besides the program curriculum and the diversity of students’ experiences, the possibility of taking a dual degree in conjunction with two of the best schools worldwide is what turns this program specially attractive and interesting.

This course has enabled me to gain skills, knowledge, and expertise alongside a highly relevant academic qualification. Furthermore, it has given me a solid foundation in service and operational issues, plus leadership and strategic business management skills which are crucial for success within the industry. In other words, it has prepared me to develop my critical thinking of a complex and competitive industry and the practical application of academic models relevant in today’s International Tourism and Hospitality Industry. The newest trends in the Tourism and Hospitality management field are explained during class, incorporating the latest and most significant research and practice within the study area. Additionally, case studies based on real-world organizations have allowed me to synthesize concepts and apply this new knowledge to concrete problems and scenarios.

How is a typical day of work for you? (Testimony - First job after graduation - Former Sales and Marketing Assistant at Hard Rock Café Orlando, USA) I do not have a “typical” day at work. Since I work with events my schedule changes and it depends on what is happening at our venue. Some weeks I do have regular office hours from Monday to Friday, but I do work as well at nights or on weekends if needed. I am the on-site point of contact for my clients and therefore I need to be present at my events. If we have special events I might leave my desk and help out wherever needed. For example, some weeks ago Michel Telo was performing at our venue, and since I speak Portuguese I became the VIP host for him and his team. I made sure that Michel Telo could enjoy his meal at our Cafe and I even helped him shopping at our Rock Shop. Some weeks ago we also had to host a last-minute VIP lunch with the stars from All-Star Celebrity Apprentice who were filming inside Universal Studios. Part of this group was Lil Jon, Omarosa, Dennis Rodman, La Toya Jackson, Brande Roderick, and others. We hosted the group in our John Lennon VIP room for lunch and it was an interesting experience. My job is very diversified and is never getting boring.