Barbara Samu

Barbara Samu
“I used to find it difficult to speak up, but now I have the confidence to do so.”
Barbara Samu
Alumna bachelor Hospitality Management

“After graduating, I wanted to make a long-held dream come true: living and working in Barcelona. I started a master’s in Human Resources & Talent Management because I knew I wanted to work with people, but I didn’t have a fixed idea of where that would take me. I’ve always been interested in what motivates people and how talent can be developed. Moving to Barcelona felt like a big step, but also like the right opportunity to find my own path.”

Growing in confidence

“During my studies at NHL Stenden, I developed not only academically, but also through the projects, competitions and extracurricular activities I took part in. One experience that stands out is the Study Start Week. As a student assistant and host coordinator, I organised the event with my team for almost 600 students. We spent six months preparing and coordinating everything. Experiences like this helped me become more confident in communicating, presenting and working with others. I also graduated as valedictorian, the best student in my year, which I’m very proud of.”

From hospitality to HR

“Today, I work in HR and Recruitment for an international organisation. I speak to candidates and colleagues every day and focus on recognising potential and connecting people with the right opportunities. My hospitality background comes in handy because working with people has always been something I enjoy.

I used to find it difficult to speak up, but now I feel much more confident in conversations, presentations and professional situations. I’m happy that I chose to follow my own path after graduating and that I’m now doing work that really suits me.”

Could this be your next step?