Mark Borodi
“I always wanted to become a chef and didn’t really see myself going to university. Then a friend of my father told me about his son, who had studied Hospitality Management. I thought: why not give it a try? I chose the Fast Track programme and am completing my degree in three years. What I particularly enjoy is the combination of hospitality and numbers. During my internship in the revenue department, I get to combine both of these interests.”
From the Netherlands to Curaçao
“I originally wanted to do my internship in the Middle East, but after months of applying, I didn’t get any responses. I then contacted the Caribbean coordinator at NHL Stenden. She helped me improve my CV and approached several companies about internship opportunities. Within three weeks, everything was arranged and I left for Curaçao. At Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort, I work in the revenue department of the five-star resort. I prepare reports, analyse financial figures and contribute to pricing strategies. At NHL Stenden, I learnt how to approach problems from different angles, but during my internship I’m seeing what that really looks like in practice.”
More than work experience
“For me, an internship abroad is about much more than gaining work experience. I’m learning how to deal with a different culture, meeting new people and becoming more independent. I live with fourteen other students, so I also learn a lot from the people around me. At the same time, I’m discovering more about my own strengths. Languages were never my strongest subject, but I now speak five languages. I’m particularly good with numbers and analytical thinking. I’m not sure exactly what I want to do after graduating. I’m interested in hospitality, finance and the automotive industry, so perhaps I’ll find a way to combine those interests in the future. For now, I’m enjoying the experience and everything I’m learning along the way.”
Ready for your adventure abroad?
Want to find out more about Hospitality Management? Explore the Hospitality Management programme or request the programme brochure.