As I wrap up this unforgettable study abroad experience in London, I’m struck by just how deeply this journey has transformed both my personal perspective and professional ambitions. Stepping into this historic city as an Entertainment Management major and U.S. Army veteran, I brought with me a mindset rooted in order, discipline, and service. What I didn’t anticipate was how those values would harmonize with the elegance, innovation, and nuance of British hospitality.
Looking Back: Growth in Every Direction
This program has been a whirlwind of growth—academic, emotional, and cultural. As a student, I’ve gained firsthand insights into the operational intricacies of international hospitality, particularly how tradition and innovation coexist in spaces like The Savoy or Fuller’s Griffin Brewery. Walking the cobbled streets of Camden Market and sipping high tea at the historic Claremont Hotel weren’t just experiences—they were case studies in guest interaction, design, and cultural immersion.
On a personal level, I found growth in the moments between the itineraries—figuring out the Tube system, ordering a “proper British tea” with confidence, or simply pausing to reflect by the Thames. These quiet, unscripted moments taught me to slow down, listen more, and observe what truly makes a destination feel authentic and welcoming.
Cultural Competence: The Soft Power of Hospitality
Coming from a military background, I’ve been trained to communicate clearly and decisively. But in London, I quickly learned that hospitality—especially British hospitality—is about nuance. Politeness is woven into every interaction, and even criticism is often delivered with subtlety (“Perhaps consider…” or “I’m not entirely sure…”).
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace resonated with me in an unexpected way. The choreography, discipline, and tradition mirrored my own military experience. Watching it didn’t just evoke pride—it also reminded me how ritual and presentation play crucial roles in guest perception. These rituals aren’t just for show—they are the brand identity in motion.
Industry Insights: Storytelling Through Space and Service
London revealed that successful hospitality isn’t just about service; it’s about storytelling. Every location we visited had a narrative, whether it was the legacy of the Fuller’s Brewery or the edgy, entrepreneurial spirit of Camden Market. Each brand, no matter how grand or grassroots, told a story through its decor, its staff, and its guest touchpoints.
As someone focused on entertainment management, these takeaways were gold. I now understand that experiences are designed like performances—from the lighting in a boutique hotel to the way a server greets a guest. I’ll carry this lesson into future projects, whether curating immersive experiences or developing brand identities that resonate globally.
Looking Forward: A Hospitality Leader with Global Vision
This trip crystallized the kind of leader I want to be: globally aware, culturally empathetic, and relentlessly guest-focused. I want to build hospitality experiences that blend precision (thank you, Army) with emotional intelligence and cultural authenticity. Whether I’m managing entertainment venues, luxury cruises, or boutique events, my goal is to create experiences that are as meaningful as they are memorable.
My next steps include continuing my studies in Cruise Line Operations and Management at FIU while maintaining relationships I’ve built during this trip. I also plan to create more digital content—including Instagram Reels from this experience—to share these lessons with a broader audience. Long-term, I hope to intern or work abroad to deepen my understanding of hospitality across cultures.
Final Thoughts
This London experience was more than a study abroad program—it was a reset button, a mirror, and a launchpad. I came here with a sense of direction. I leave with a clearer vision, deeper confidence, and a heart full of gratitude. London didn’t just teach me about hospitality. It taught me about myself.