From Hotel Management to Marketing: My Journey of Self-Discovery

Life is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. As a young student, fresh out of completing my 12th grade with a PCMB background, I found myself standing at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take. The future seemed uncertain, and I yearned to find my true calling. Little did I know that a chance encounter during a visit to Manipal for the annual event UTSAV would set me on a transformative path, leading me from the world of hotel management to the exciting realm of marketing.

Inspiration Strikes:

It was at UTSAV that I had the incredible opportunity to witness the presence of Vikas Khanna, a renowned Indian chef, restaurateur, cookbook writer, filmmaker, and humanitarian. As an alumnus of WGSHA (Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration), he was invited as a guest for the event. I was captivated by his speech, which showcased his immense talent, passion, and the impact he had made in the culinary world. In that moment, I was inspired to pursue a career in hotel management, driven by the desire to create extraordinary experiences through food.

My fascination with the culinary arts grew as I delved deeper into the subject. I discovered the artistry and creativity involved in creating exquisite dishes, and I was drawn to the idea of using food as a means of creating memorable experiences for people. Vikas Khanna became my inspiration, a symbol of what I could achieve in this field. Motivated by my newfound passion, I decided to apply to WGSHA (Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration), where Vikas Khanna had studied. I went through the rigorous entrance exams and was excited to take the next step in my journey towards becoming a chef. However, the interview process at WGSHA proved to be a humbling experience. I had missed the instruction about not wearing studs (earrings) and was asked to remove them before entering the interview room. This momentary lapse in attention shattered my confidence, and my interview did not go as well as I had hoped. It was a valuable lesson in the importance of thorough preparation and attention to detail.

A New Opportunity:

Despite the disappointment of not getting into WGSHA, I remained determined to pursue my passion for the culinary arts. With the help of my sister, who had contacts in the industry, I discovered the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) in Bangalore. Excited by the prospect of continuing my journey in hotel management, I applied for IIHM and went through their rigorous entrance test and group discussion. To my surprise, the topic for the group discussion was the same as the one at WGSHA. Drawing from my previous experience, I confidently shared my thoughts and actively participated in the discussion. The panel was impressed by my insights and communication skills. This positive outcome boosted my spirits, and I eagerly awaited the interview.

The interview panel consisted of Elizabeth Ma'am, Sandeep Sir and Mansi Ma'am. They recognized my potential and passion for the industry. The interview went well, and within a month, I received the confirmation that I had been selected to join IIHM. It was a moment of overwhelming joy and a validation of my decision to pursue hotel management.

Discovering My Strengths:

At IIHM, I found myself surrounded by a diverse and talented group of individuals who became my close-knit gang. Together, we formed a strong support system and shared our dreams and aspirations. Among my gang were Mayuresh, who was always talkative, Neethi, the shortie with a big heart, Lydia, the sweet and kind soul, Nayla, the aunty who always looked out for us, and Likith D, my name twin and dear friend, were all integral members of our close-knit gang. Alongside them, Nikhil's focus, Poonam's diligence, Rajni's love for coffee, Radhika's vibrant personality, and Natsuda's talent from Thailand added even more joy and unforgettable moments to our IIHM journey. We were a unique and interesting bunch, each bringing our own strengths and quirks to the table. I am truly grateful to have had such amazing friends by my side during my time at IIHM.

During my time at IIHM, I discovered my passion for decor and design. Under the guidance of Sandeep Sir and Elizabeth Ma'am, I excelled in the art and decor club. I was given the opportunity to showcase my talent and creativity. The first-year food fest was a major milestone for me, as I was appointed as the head of the art and decor club. It was a responsibility I took seriously, ensuring that the event's decor was impeccable. The positive feedback and appreciation from my team and the HOD of decor, Elizabeth Ma'am, further fueled my passion for this aspect of the industry.

A Shift in Perspective:

While I initially set out to become a chef, a sobering statement during a guest speech at IIHM made me question my career choice. The recurring message was that not everyone who aspired to be a chef would end up becoming one. This realization made me reflect on my own abilities and aspirations. However, my involvement in the art and decor team, along with my industrial training at Conrad Bangalore, exposed me to different aspects of the hospitality industry.

During my industrial training, I had the opportunity to work in various departments, including front office, kitchen, housekeeping, and sales and marketing. It was during my time in the kitchen that I experienced a significant turning point. The demanding and sometimes harsh environment made me question whether I truly belonged there. The long hours, lack of respect, and the need to assert authority over others were not in line with my values and personality. On the other hand, my experience in sales and marketing was a revelation. I felt respected, valued, and appreciated for my skills and contributions. Interacting with clients and being part of a team that worked closely with the general manager's office made me feel like I belonged. I craved the respect and nature of work that this department offered.

Embracing Marketing:

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a period of reflection and self-discovery. During the break, I delved deeper into the world of marketing, taking online courses and expanding my knowledge in this field. It became clear to me that marketing was where my true passion lay. The ability to connect with people, create compelling campaigns, and influence consumer behavior fascinated me. Driven by this newfound passion, I decided to pursue a master's degree in marketing. My research led me to the unique MA in Digital and Creative Marketing course at MAHE. Without a second thought, I applied and successfully went through the interview process. Now, I find myself building my portfolio as a marketing enthusiast, eager to explore the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

My educational journey from hotel management to marketing has been a rollercoaster ride of self-discovery and personal growth. Through various experiences, I learned the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and seizing opportunities. While my initial aspirations may have changed, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the path that has led me to a field where I feel inspired and fulfilled. As I continue to explore the world of marketing, I am excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead.