Prisca Ifunanya Page

There are things this course is teaching me that no one warned me about.

Before starting Tourism and Hospitality Management in the UK, I had certain expectations about what the course would be like. I assumed it would focus mainly on theory, customer service basics, and industry knowledge. While those things are part of it, I quickly realised there is much more emphasis on personal development than I expected.

One of the biggest surprises has been how much attention is given to attitude and behaviour. It’s not enough to simply understand concepts how you apply them matters just as much. Professionalism, punctuality, and communication are treated as essential skills, not optional extras. That shift in mindset has challenged me to become more intentional in how I approach my studies and interactions.

Another thing I didn’t expect was how reflective the course would be. You’re encouraged to think deeply about experiences, analyse situations, and understand why certain approaches work better than others. This has helped me develop stronger critical thinking skills and become more self-aware.

Studying in the UK has also exposed me to diverse perspectives. Interacting with people from different backgrounds has broadened my understanding of service and cultural awareness.

Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Adjusting to a new academic environment, managing expectations, and staying motivated can be difficult at times. But those challenges have also been some of the most valuable learning moments.

This course is teaching me that growth often happens outside of comfort zones. I’m learning to embrace the process, even when it feels uncomfortable, and trust that every experience is shaping me into a better version of myself.

There are things this course is teaching me that no one warned me about.

Before starting Tourism and Hospitality Management in the UK, I had certain expectations about what the course would be like. I assumed it would focus mainly on theory, customer service basics, and industry knowledge. While those things are part of it, I quickly realised there is much more emphasis on personal development than I expected.
One of the biggest surprises has been how much attention is given to attitude and behaviour. It’s not enough to simply understand concepts how you apply them matters just as much. Professionalism, punctuality, and communication are treated as essential skills, not optional extras. That shift in mindset has challenged me to become more intentional in how I approach my studies and interactions.

Another thing I didn’t expect was how reflective the course would be. You’re encouraged to think deeply about experiences, analyse situations, and understand why certain approaches work better than others. This has helped me develop stronger critical thinking skills and become more self-aware.

Studying in the UK has also exposed me to diverse perspectives. Interacting with people from different backgrounds has broadened my understanding of service and cultural awareness. It’s taught me that hospitality isn’t one-size-fits-all it requires sensitivity and adaptability.

Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Adjusting to a new academic environment, managing expectations, and staying motivated can be difficult at times. But those challenges have also been some of the most valuable learning moments.

This course is teaching me that growth often happens outside of comfort zones. I’m learning to embrace the process, even when it feels uncomfortable, and trust that every experience is shaping me into a better version of myself.

What lessons have you learnt from your studies?

Studying hospitality is quietly changing how I see people not in theory, but in real life.

Before I started Tourism and Hospitality Management, I thought service was mostly about rules, procedures, and doing your job well. I assumed professionalism meant being efficient and polite. While those things matter, studying hospitality has taught me that people are far more complex than any checklist or standard.

One of the biggest lessons I’m learning is that everyone arrives with something you cannot see. In hospitality, you’re trained to look beyond the surface. A guest who seems impatient may be tired, stressed, or overwhelmed. A customer who appears quiet may simply want to feel acknowledged. Studying this course is teaching me that empathy is not optional it’s essential.

I’m also learning that people remember how you make them feel more than what you say or do. Small moments matter. A welcoming tone, active listening, or genuine attention can completely change an experience. Hospitality teaches you that respect is communicated through behaviour, not just words.

I’m still learning, still observing, and still developing these skills. But one thing is clear: hospitality is about people first. It teaches you to slow down, notice, and respond with intention.

If you’re studying hospitality management, working with people, or simply learning how to communicate better, I’d love to hear your experience.

What has working or studying hospitality management taught you about people?

I was rushing for class. Already late. Heart pounding. Bag heavy with books, dreams, and deadlines.

I was running to catch the bus the kind of run every student knows too well. When my flask slipped out of my backpack without me noticing.
I picked it up and saw the scratch.

And honestly? It hurt more than it should have.

Not because it’s just a flask but because it was a gift. A reminder of home, support and sacrifice.
One of those small things that quietly carries love through a tough student journey.

That scratch now reminds me of late mornings, tight schedules and the pressure of studying abroad and showing up anyway even when things don’t go perfectly.

Student life isn’t neat.
Dreams get scratched.
But we keep going.

And yes… I still caught the bus.

If you’re a student, tell me in the comments: what’s the one small thing that keeps you going on hard days?
Save this if you’re in your “still trying” season .