Discover Your Passport to Success at HIM with the IBCP Program

Are you a high school student with a passion for people and adventure? If you’re an empathetic soul seeking an engaging career, the world of hospitality and business may be just the right fit for you.

We interviewed International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) alumni and graduates of the distinguished Hotel Institute Montreux (HIM) in Switzerland as well as Ms. Cecilia – a teacher at Borgarskola, Sweden – to help you discover how you can unlock your potential and jump-start a successful career!

Read on to discover the unique advantages IBCP students like you can gain by studying business and hospitality at HIM.

Hello! Why has the Hotel Institute Montreux been such an attractive study choice for IBCP students?

Abdullah: HIM offers many opportunities for students to grow their network by not only meeting like-minded students in classrooms but also successful business people and representatives of prestigious hospitality companies during various school-hosted networking events and internships.

Karolina: Indeed, the networking opportunities available at HIM are truly exceptional. By participating in internships, attending recruiting events, competing, and engaging in forums, I was able to establish valuable connections with inspiring professionals who have played a significant role in shaping my career trajectory.

In what way would you say the IBCP program provides a competitive edge for students pursuing to study at HIM?

Ms. Cecilia: The IBCP program’s core, including the Personal and Professional Skills (PPS) course, is tailored to develop students as young professionals and teaches vital hospitality industry skills which by itself helps them stand out among other first-year students at HIM.

Stefan: It truly does. The IBCP program has helped me develop communication skills, cultural awareness, professionalism, industry knowledge, and leadership skills, which are essential not only for pursuing a career in hospitality but also for studies abroad.

The IBCP program emphasizes the real-world application of theoretical knowledge. Why is it important and how does it enhance the educational experience at HIM?

Ms. Cecilia: While the IBCP program’s Business Management course covers the theoretical aspects of business, including leadership, teamwork, and communication, it also differentiates itself from other programs, like the Diploma Programme (DP), by offering career-related study courses. These courses allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, making them well-equipped for the very practice-oriented learning experiences at HIM.

Karolina: The practical component of IBCB was a very valuable experience for me as it allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a real-world work setting and made getting out of my comfort zone in HIM seem not that scary.

Abdullah: This part is what actually made me confident in my abilities to study abroad and eventually pursue an international career in the first place!

What makes the leap from Borgarskola Sweden to HIM in Switzerland a breeze for IBCP students?

Ms. Cecilia: Borgarskola Sweden’s international and Erasmus accredited status provides numerous opportunities for students to intern abroad during high school. With international internships and close connections to partner universities like HIM, you’ll be packed and ready to embark on your Swiss educational journey.

Once you arrive at HIM, you’ll feel right at home, thanks to the familiar surroundings and friendships you’ve already established.

Abdullah: Exactly. The close collaboration between the two partner schools makes it that much easier for you to get started at HIM.

How does the IBCP program give you the linguistic and cultural passport you need to thrive at HIM and beyond?

Karolina: What set the IBCP program apart for me was the incredibly diverse group of nationalities represented in my class. This experience gave me a greater appreciation for the unique perspectives that people from different backgrounds can bring to the table and provided me with a strong foundation for my studies at HIM which hosts a diverse mix of cultures.

Ms. Cecilia: With diverse classmates speaking multiple languages, Borgarskola Sweden’s IBCP program is like a trip around the world in a single classroom. By the time you reach HIM, you’ll be fluent in the language of international hospitality.

With real-world experiences, language skills, cultural know-how, and global connections, you’ll be ready to take on the fast-paced, exciting world of hospitality and make your mark. So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life!

Thank you, all, for a lovely conversation!

Find out more about applying to HIM here.