Broadening career opportunities for Tourism students who possess foreign languages

On January 18, 2024, The Faculty of Tourism at Van Lang University organized a workshop titled "Guidance on Careers and Proficiency in Tourism English within Enterprises". This event facilitated an interactive platform for students to engage with industry professionals, fostering knowledge exchange and learning opportunities. It also aimed to assist students in identifying their individual career paths and determine specific directions for their professional growth in the field of tourism.

According to MSc. Hoang Ngoc Hien, the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Tourism, in this era of globalization, the demand for skilled professionals in the tourism industry is on the rise. This necessitates that post-graduate students possess comprehensive knowledge, skills, and particularly strong foreign language abilities. During the workshop, Dr. Pham Huong Trang, a lecturer at RMIT University, shared with VLU students about the potential within the field of tourism and emphasized the enhanced career prospects for students who possess a solid command of foreign languages or are fluent in many languages.

Dr. Pham Huong Trang shared: "English will be the key for enabling tourism students to explore various destinations, secure higher-than-average initial salaries, and unlock more career development opportunities. When you have a strong command of a foreign language,you not only expand horizons but also enriches your experiences by embracing diverse cultures.”

Ms. Doan Tran Phuong Thao, the National Human Resources Director for Indochina and Korea at IHG Hotel and Resort, highlighted the existing disparity between the English proficiency level of human resources in Vietnam and the actual job requirements. According to Ms. Phuong Thao, employers perceive possessing a solid foundation in a foreign language as crucial. It not only enhances candidates' confidence but also adds value to their CVs during the selection process and interviews at esteemed corporations. 

Drawing from their extensive expertise in the tourism and service industry, Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Duyen, Co-founder and Head of Training at PAAS Group, and Mr. Mark Cohnem Sevilles, Academic Advisor of PAAS Group, shared captivating stories and experiences with the students from the Faculty of Tourism at Van Lang University. Through interactive discussions, Q&A sessions encompassing topics like traditional cuisine and renowned tourist destinations, the speakers integrated practical lessons on how to handle various situations when leading foreign delegations. This provided the students with valuable insights into effectively managing real-life situations.

Reporter: Trung Truc
Photo: Gia Minh