Human Resources Specialization Opens Doors to Dubai and Beyond

It’s an exciting time for Daria as she begins to fulfill her dream of working around the world. She has already gained experiences in her hometown in Ukraine, finished her studies in Switzerland and is now working in Dubai – and this is only the beginning for her as she puts her Hotel Institute Montreux Bachelor of Hospitality Management Human Resources Specialization into practice.

“I believe the Human Resources Specialization is a great education base for many different opportunities.”

Check out her Q&A below to learn about her experiences so far.

Tell us about your Traineeship.
I have been hired by the Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria for a 1-year Human Resources Operations Traineeship. In this role I deal directly with all of the newly hired arrivals. Once a person is selected for a job at the Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria I am their first point of contact. I organize their travel tickets, visas and working permits and ensure their first days at the Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria are as seamless, efficient and welcoming as possible.

Why did you choose to specialize in Human Resources?
In the beginning I hesitated between HR and Marketing. However in the first weeks of classes I got to know the HR teacher and really enjoyed his teaching style and thought the class was really fun. So in my second year I chose to continue. HR is interesting as it’s an interesting mix of psychology and communication and crosses all departments.

What have you learned about Human Resources in practice that you didn’t learn in the classroom?
It is definitely very different to read about Human Resources than it is to experience it. Before coming to Dubai, I thought Human Resources was mainly about finding solutions to problems for people but I have since realized it is so much more. I can see now that HR is at the centre of everything in a hotel. In my role, I regularly communicate with every department and have had the opportunity to get to know so many different members of staff. Everyday is different and always interesting.

How has the Human Resources specialization helped prepare you for a diverse career?
The specialization has definitely helped prepared me for where I am today. It has given me a lot of confidence in myself as a professional - especially during interviews. At this stage in my career I am focused on gaining experience and Hyatt traineeships are well known for cross-training opportunities. After 6 months in my traineeship I am able to apply for an experience in another department, which I am very interested to do.

How has your life changed since you entered as a student at Hotel Institute Montreux?
I arrived at Hotel Institute Montreux when I was 17 right from secondary school and was very shy. But after 4 years at HIM I grew into a different person and have been given opportunities I could never imagine.

“I am only 20 years old and I feel like I have the entire world in front of me.”

What advice did your Manager give you in the first weeks of your traineeship?
On my first day, I was very nervous. My manager took me aside and told me to relax and just enjoy the challenges that come my way. I have taken this approach and truly enjoy my work every day now.

How did you get the traineeship with Hyatt?
The Internship Coordinator at Hotel Institute Montreux was the one who sent me the opportunity from the Recruitment Manager at Hyatt Regency Dubai & Gallery. Without even asking my parents or thinking too much I sent my cover letter and CV. 2 days later they invited me to a Skype interview. After another 2 days they told me that I was accepted to the Hyatt Family. It all happened very quickly!

What’s next for you after your traineeship?
My manager has already told me a job is ready for me here or at another Hyatt. But for me, it’s too early to tell where I will end up. I moved from Ukraine to Switzerland then to Dubai and I definitely want to continue to travel and get more international experience.

“I think that when we are young we should travel as much as possible and take the opportunities that come. We should not be afraid. Inside me I have the desire to go everywhere and experience as many different cultures as I can.”

What is the most surprising thing about Dubai?
I am amazed by the amount of work that goes on in this city 24 hours a day. You can go to sleep and wake up to see a brand new building outside your window. It’s very impressive!