Ivan Garcia

“ICMS is, without a doubt, the best institution to study hospitality management in Sydney. It has a strong academic curriculum and is associated with César Ritz Colleges Switzerland. Every single lecturer at ICMS is qualified, passionate, professional, and has had extensive work experience in their fields.”

Read about Ivan’s journey below…

Your Studies

Why did you choose to study at ICMS?

ICMS is, without a doubt, the best institution to study hospitality management in Sydney. It has a strong academic curriculum and is associated with César Ritz Colleges Switzerland. Also, the smaller classes allow you to approach your lecturers whenever you need to.

Why did you choose to study your particular course?

The Bachelor of Hospitality Management is an excellent “all-in-one” package. It is a great course where you can develop business management knowledge and skills; become savvy at understanding operations, front office and industry-demanded trends such as revenue management; and use industry grade technology.

How would you describe the teaching staff at ICMS?

They are qualified, passionate, professional, and have had extensive work experience in their fields.

Have you undertaken practical experience during your degree?

I have worked in several hospitality businesses in Sydney and I’m quite happy with the practical experience I have obtained from that.

What do you enjoy about your course?

I have discovered a passion for Human Resource Management and Revenue Management. I have enjoyed additional academic support networks such as the referencing workshops and I have been ultimately encouraged to achieve my full potential.

What are your plans for when you complete your degree?

I want to get into a Graduate Management Program with a hotel group to gain managerial entry in the hospitality industry and to further develop my skills in culinary arts and oenology.

Industry Training

What was your role?

I worked at the Park Royal Hotel, Darling Harbour. During business hours, I was a Human Capital and Development Intern and helped with tasks related to recruitment and selection, employee-recognition ceremonies and work health and safety. I also worked as a food and beverage attendant in the hotel’s restaurant, bars, and for banquet events after business hours.

What did you learn in your role?

I gained insights into how a hotel human resources department operates. I experienced first-hand how recruitment activities work, how managers in this department organise the vast information that needs to be kept and most important aspects of labour law in relation to employment in this industry.

How has the industry training experience helped your career?

It was incredibly rewarding. I gained practical experience in hotel food and beverage operations, plus human resources. If I look for work in any of these two departments I will already have valuable past experience to rely on, which translates into more confidence.

Getting To Icms

How do you get to ICMS for classes?

I usually walk to downtown Manly where the shuttle bus picks us up.

Did you live on campus?

I lived on campus during my first two terms in ICMS. I got to know everybody quickly and it helped me to understand the Australian culture and lifestyle.

General

Was it easy to make new friends and what was your experience?

Yes, everyone is very welcoming and approachable and I appreciate the cultural diversity of the ICMS community. I also made friend playing for the first futsal team in ICMS.

What are some highlights during your time at ICMS?

– September term 2012: Dean’s List Award recipient
– February term 2014: Touraust Corporation Scholarship recipient
– Getting to know the most amazing people, expanding my perspectives and gaining life-long friends.

What do you love most about Manly?

Definitely the summer vibe; swimming and having BBQs at Shelly beach. I’ve surfed a couple of times too; it’s really addictive and good fun.

What advice would you give to someone considering studying at ICMS?

We all love to party, but keep your priorities straight and you will end up really loving your business degree. Your professional life will get a head start even before you graduate. And I can honestly tell you that time will fly by way too fast.

You can complete the Bachelor of Hospitality Management in 3 years. Click here for course details.