Serra completed her operational placement at Hilton Malta and is now finishing her bachelor’s degree at Hilton Rotterdam. The Hilton Class made it happen.
Education
Industry
Why Hilton Class?
"Hilton simply fits me as a brand." That was one of the reasons Serra applied for the Hilton Class, the exclusive programme within Hotel Management at BUas. A guest lecture by Hilton's Learning & Development Managers sparked her enthusiasm, and she saw it as a chance to build a strong professional network.
Looking back, it was an easy decision. "It takes up just a few days a year, yet you get so much in return."
Thinking like Hilton
Through the programme's sessions, Serra got to familiarise herself with Hilton's values, mission and vision, and began applying them throughout her studies. "Gradually, you start approaching everything from that perspective."
There was a practical benefit too. For assignments requiring research or interviews, she could contact professionals from the Hilton network directly. People who gave real answers, drawn from experience rather than textbooks.
A head start on placements
The most tangible result? Serra secured both her placements at Hilton before the positions were even advertised. "You really do get a bit of a head start." Personal guidance plays a key role: mentors look at you as an individual, taking your experience and career ambitions into account. "That sometimes led to surprisingly candid advice."
Hospitality starts with a happy team
Serra completed her first placement at Hilton Malta, in the Human Resources department. She already knew Hilton had a strong reputation for looking after its people, but the reality still took her by surprise.
"They really care about their team members. They believe hospitality starts with a happy team member, and after my placement I am completely convinced of that too."
One principle stuck with her in particular: the Make it Right rule. "You make sure every situation is resolved well, for everyone. Not just the guest, but the team member too."
Leadership in practice
A moment Serra is particularly proud of: she took the lead on organising a cocktail competition at Hilton Malta. "When all the communications came together and everything ran smoothly, I was really proud of that." A small project, but a big feeling.
What's next?
Serra is completing her bachelor’s degree with a final graduation placement at Hilton Rotterdam. After that? "I'm hoping for a job within the Hilton brand, of course."
