Personal and Academic Growth
I feel as though this entire trip has brought about substantial amounts of growth to my life. I have been dealing with a rough time and going on this trip really opened my eyes to how many beautiful things and people are out there. I have made some amazing bonds, found some true friends, and have gained so much wisdom when it comes to my career and what I would like to do. Although I am not 100% about where I want to go, I know my future will involve lots of travels.
Specifically, during my time in London, I have met so many locals who are such kind people who I have gotten their contact information and plan to feed those relationships as much as I can. I enjoy the idea of having foreign friends all over the world. It is not something I ever really considered outside of gaming or social media. Many of these people were our bartenders, servers, or just random interactions. It showed me how hospitality is not just about service but also connecting with people and leaving an impact on them.
A moment that really stood out to me was when my friends and I went to eat and although the server (Evelyn) was just being let out of work, but she decided to stay and serve us before leaving. She made the experience so personable and she was the sweetest ever. She really showed what hospitality is about and I am so grateful to have met her and connected with her. She went out her way to tell us how great our group was and how much we made her day which is something I have never experienced before in a restaurant.
Cultural Competence and Communication
When it came to communication with the locals, they was not much difficulty besides not understanding certain slang or just the thick accent. Culturally significant things that are not American were also a bit confusing, but I feel as though I had a bit more of an understanding due to my obsession with UK culture in my youth.
I mentioned it previously, but the amount of alternative options they have readily available to make you comfortable and able to enjoy the dining experience as everyone else was really amazing. I feel like in America, they would just say you cant eat that and tell you that there is not much else they can do because they dont carry as many options. It was a treat that I really appreciated.
Industry Insights
I feel as though my biggest take away career wise, is adaptability. Even when someone from a different culture comes in, it is your job to ensure that then guest still feels at home in a foreign land.
The places we visited all had their own way of branding and marketing themselves to foreigners while also still including installments that would be significant to locals as well. The story telling behind these company’s was vital in connecting deeply with historical roots and preserving the legacy going forward.
Global Hospitality Vision
This trip has altered my vision of my future completely. I can not imagine what my plan would’ve looked like before this trip. I feel as though there is so much more to explore and to do out in the world of hospitality. I dont want to be tied to a specific my whole life, I want to explore and experience as many culture, countries, and brands as possible.
My next steps include the future study abroad trips that align with my future and to continue traveling and learning as much as possible. I want to continue to gain knowledge about people and cultures while I am studying for my degrees. This may be my transatlantic voyage first but definitely not my last!