Vipula Bhagwani first arrived at Les Roches as a shy high school student unsure of what to expect. However, the school’s warm and friendly atmosphere, multicultural environment and industry relations meant choosing to study at Les Roches became one of the best decisions Vipula has ever made. She spoke to us about her experience at Les Roches.
Why did you decide to study hospitality management in Switzerland?
I was first intrigued by the world of hospitality when I realized how vast the industry is. A common misconception about the industry is that it is limited to hotels, but it offers so much more than that. A hospitality degree from Les Roches can also open doors to the financial sector, event planning, food and beverage, among others.
[quote]It’s all about grabbing opportunities…It’s hard to imagine just how much of my life has changed[/quote]
Why did you choose to study at Les Roches?
I first visited the school with my family as a timid high school student. I remember the school having a warm environment where everyone was smiling. The view of the Swiss Alps from the school is breathtaking and I knew that this was the place where I wanted to study.
Living in a small village in the Swiss Alps, where over 100 nationalities are represented, is really mind-blowing. Part of Les Roches’ charm and spirit is how diverse we are. Despite being a small school, I have learned that Les Roches is not just a community, it is a family.
What particular highlights do you have of your time at Les Roches?
My time at Les Roches has been a rollercoaster. From the occasional party in Crans-Montana to a spontaneous weekend trip to Milan and weekend duties in our practical classes, we have it all. The opportunities here are endless – Les Roches really makes you feel like the world is your oyster.
[quote]Our Career Development department has been an amazing help in the hunt for my internships and job.[/quote]
Highlights of the Les Roches experience include my two internships, which I took at JW Marriott in Shanghai and Fairmont Rey Juan Carlos I in Barcelona, respectively. Both internships were extremely challenging but very rewarding. I learned, I grew and I matured. I became an adult with these experiences.
Another highlight of my time at Les Roches has been my kitchen semester. I had never stepped into a kitchen before, so it was a challenging experience. However, coming out of that semester I felt more comfortable being in a kitchen. Chopping 10 kilograms of onions while crying with my classmates is one memory I will never forget!
How did you secure your internships?
Our Career Development department has been an amazing help in the hunt for my internships and job.
What are your plans for the future?
I hope to eventually work for an international luxury hotel chain, where I will have more opportunities to travel and explore the world.
What advice can you give to future Les Roches students
Firstly, if you’re thinking of coming to Les Roches, good for you! Secondly, don’t be afraid – when I arrived at the school from Shanghai, a massive city, it was a huge adjustment for me. There are ways to get around and explore. It’s all about grabbing opportunities. For example, Les Roches is located near the world-famous ski resort of Crans-Montana, so you can learn how to ski and snowboard while you are here!
It’s hard to imagine just how much of my life has changed from choosing to study at Les Roches. I honestly wouldn’t change a thing about my experience and am forever grateful I made the decision to study here.
