Hello! I’m Jennifer Brande, an Entertainment Management major with a passion for immersive guest experiences. From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by the magic that happens behind the scenes—whether it’s in a theater, on a cruise ship, or inside a luxury hotel. I completed the “Hospitality at Sea” program through FIU’s Chaplin School just prior to starting my Hospitality in London, where I gained hands-on insight into shipboard operations and guest relations. What drew me to the London study abroad program is twofold: my family roots in the U.K. and an unquenchable curiosity about how London’s storied establishments combine tradition and innovation in hospitality. I’m eager to reconnect with my relatives who live in London, explore their local favorites, and dive deep into the back-of-house world of London’s iconic venues.
Cultural Expectations: When I think of London hospitality, images of refined afternoon teas, impeccably dressed staff, and centuries-old hotels come to mind. I anticipate a service culture steeped in courtesy and attention to detail—tea served with a perfectly folded napkin, staff greeting guests with measured warmth, and concierge desks that seem to have a solution for every whim. Of course, I’m aware of some stereotypes: that British service can be overly formal or reserved, or that queues and punctuality reign supreme. I’m curious to see whether these assumptions hold true, especially in trendsetting hotspots like Shoreditch or Covent Garden where the vibe might be more relaxed. Will traditional etiquette blend seamlessly with the edgier, startup-driven café scene? I can’t wait to find out.
Your Personal Brand: Over the years, I’ve cultivated a personal brand centered on authenticity, empathy, and creative problem-solving. I want people to see me as approachable and resourceful—someone who listens first, then crafts experiences that surprise and delight. During my London adventure, I’ll project these values by:
Writing: I will plan to maintain a daily blog where I share my candid stories—both triumphs and missteps—from my behind-the-scenes tours. I’ll highlight the human side of hospitality, interviewing staff members and telling the stories that don’t always make it into glossy brochures.
Vlogging: Through short vlogs, I’ll capture the energy of London’s service environments—recording everything from a Michelin-star kitchen in action to a boutique hotel’s turn-down ritual. My goal is to balance polished editing with real-time spontaneity.
Participation: In workshops or shadowing opportunities, I’ll volunteer for any task, whether greeting guests at a heritage property or helping stock minibar items at a modern aparthotel. By rolling up my sleeves, filming for my TV show, and taking photos/videos for the FIU Social Media, I’ll demonstrate my commitment to teamwork, learning, and branding.
Goals for the Trip: By the time I return home, I hope to have achieved three key objectives:
Master a New Service Skill: Whether it’s perfecting the art of tea service or learning the nuances of wine pairing from a London sommelier, I want at least one tangible skill that elevates my professional toolkit.
Build an International Network: I aim to forge meaningful connections with London-based peers, mentors, and family contacts—people I can collaborate with long after the program ends.
Challenge My Comfort Zone: From navigating the London Underground during Rush Hour to presenting a mini-workshop in a local hospitality school, I want to confront moments of discomfort and emerge more confident in cross-cultural settings.
This journey is more than a résumé booster—it’s a chance to deepen my understanding of global hospitality, strengthen my personal brand, and grow as both a professional and an individual. I’m thrilled to embark on this London adventure and share every step of the way!
