Reflections from a Graduate: Suphaphit “Ham” Phanratanamongkol
AIHM trains the leaders of tomorrow. Whether you’re dreaming of a career in hotel management or life as an entrepreneur, a degree from AIHM prepares you to succeed. At AIHM, you can gain the knowledge, connections and experience to achieve your goals. Want to hear about the AIHM journey in one our graduate’s own words? Read this insight-filled reflection from Suphaphit “Ham” Phanratanamongkol, who earned AIHM’s Award for Academic Excellence, our Institute’s valedictorian award bestowed to the BBA graduate with the highest academic average.
What has been your favourite course during your time at AIHM? Why?
While I enjoyed many courses during my time at AIHM, I'd like to highlight two favourites from both the Practical Arts and Academic semesters.
- Food and Beverage Service was one of the first courses where I learnt the crucial connection of service standards and customer satisfaction. Experiencing this first-hand at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort is an excellent way to learn from the best and most qualified professionals, tackling real-world issues.
- The Front Office course introduced me to the dynamics of hotel operations—from check-in and check-out procedures and room assignments to handling guest inquiries and complaints. This course not only enhanced my communication and problem-solving skills but equipped me with the practical skills needed for my Front Office internship and, ultimately, my future career in the hospitality industry.
- International Relations broadened my perspective beyond the hospitality world. By studying political factors and economic trends that influence our intricate societies, this course helped me to develop a mindset to truly become a global citizen.
- Science and Culture of Gastronomy was a culinary adventure that allowed me to appreciate the long history of Thai cuisine, food trends and the techniques used to create delectable dishes. Each of us also got to create a unique dish that combined traditional Thai flavours with innovation and creativity. I invented a Khanom Khrok appetiser with pesto and tomato sauce, along with homemade coconut cream cheese, for The Pizza Company. This project allowed us to showcase our gastronomic creativity to Minor Food who is known for its global brands, including Swensen's, Burger King, The Pizza Company, Bonchon, The Coffee Club and Sizzler.
What has been the biggest surprise during your time at AIHM? Is there anything you experienced or learned that you would have never imagined before you began your studies here?
One of the biggest surprises during my time at AIHM was the transformative impact it had on every one of us. In just three and a half years, we’ve become more confident, adaptable and determined individuals with strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
AIHM really helped me to develop in terms of both personal and professional growth. The programme equipped me with the skills and confidence I need to succeed in the hospitality industry and beyond.
Have your career aspirations changed over the course of your degree programme? What was your goal, dream job or career interest at the very beginning of the programme? Is it different now?
My career aspirations have remained consistent throughout my time at AIHM. From the beginning, my ultimate goal was to open my own hotel. Studying here not only reinforced my determination but also equipped me with the confidence and knowledge necessary to pursue it. AIHM has provided me with valuable insights into the hospitality industry, allowing me to explore different roads and solidify my career path.
What is your most memorable moment from your studies at AIHM? (Why does it stand out in your memory?)
One of my most memorable moments at AIHM was our farewell event on our last day on campus. It was bittersweet and nostalgic at the same time. As we looked back at photographs from our very first day, it was incredible to see how much we had grown as individuals and as a cohort. The event was a good walk down memory lane of the relationships we had formed, the challenges we had overcome and the lessons we had learnt.
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