There are arguably many reasons to visit luxury hotels, from the top-notch amenities to the personalized experiences to the fine dining, but for me what makes a stay most memorable is the service. After a long day of traveling, the warm smile of a greeter at a hotel’s entrance can be enough to make you feel at home. But it doesn’t stop there. The front desk clerk, reservations agent, the concierge, the porter, the valet, and the housekeeper are just some of the individuals that contribute to ensuring you have a positive experience at their property. If you have ever had a memorable experience simply due to one of these individuals, chances are, they were #SwissEducated.

I spent five days in lovely Switzerland to discover the Swiss Education Group’s curriculum and campuses, and learn how the finest hospitality professionals receive their education. Based in Montreux, we ventured to explore the SEG campuses, many of them featuring expansive views of Lac Leman (Lake Geneva), and some of them nestled high in the mountains in quaint ski villages that offer all the charm of the Swiss Alps. 

How do you become an expert in luxury?

The best way to learn is by experience. So, it’s all a part of the Swiss Education Group’s curriculum to experience the finest in dining, culinary arts, wines, teas, cigars, chocolates, you name it. During the three year program, students learn the ins-and-outs of all things related to hospitality, and then continue to focus on their chosen specialization, whether it be hotel management, design, culinary arts, or international business. The program also features two internships, the first taking place at a fine hotel or resort property, and the second taking place anywhere in the world. 

The Student Experience

Awarded as a prestigious Apple Distinguished School, The Swiss Education Group prides itself on effectively incorporating technology into its curriculum and environment. Teaching in our digital age requires developing a collaborative environment in which students are guided and taught how to best utilize the endless amount of information available to them. What I thought was most impressive about SEG’s curriculum is that for many courses students get to choose how they are assessed- whether it be taking an exam, producing a video, or giving a presentation for example. By allowing students to be creative, they find greater ownership in their studies and learn skills that will carry them through their careers.

Equally impressive to the curriculum is the student experience. Most of SEG’s campuses are converted from charming hotels, providing students with a living situation that mirrors that of a hotel stay- including access to amenities, fine dining, and stunning views from their bedrooms. Though classes are taught in English, 95% of students are international, providing a diverse and cultural environment where you can make life-long friends from all over the world.

The Swiss Education Group finds great responsibility in seeing their students succeed, and provide programs to enhance their education. One such program that an SEG student told me she found especially helpful is their student-to-student tutoring program. If you are a student that needs help in a particular course or language, you can be tutored by one of your peers, for which you will not be charged, but the tutor will be paid by the school.

If you could work anywhere in the world, where would you choose?

Aside from all the technical skills taught in their hospitality programs, the SEG emphasizes teaching employability. I attended SEG’s International Recruitment Forum, a three-day event where current students and soon-to-be graduates land the internships and careers of their dreams.

At the International Recruitment Forum, students have the opportunity to meet:
- 52 Brands representing 111 Hotel Properties
- 190 Recruiters present, 70% of which are Decision Makers
- 50% of Hiring Contracts are signed on the spot at IRF

Additionally, graduates of Swiss Education Group schools have access to career counseling, exclusive hiring opportunities, and a lifetime network of alumni living and working across the globe.

If you have ever dreamed of working in the hospitality industry, I suggest clicking here to learn more about the Swiss Education Group and its Bachelor, Postgraduate, and Masters Programs. Furthermore, you can reach out to me below in the comments and I can answer any questions about my experience in Switzerland.