Bangalore, June 9 : The International Institute of Hotel Management , Bangalore, has been hosting a series of webinars that bring together prospective students, current students, parents and accomplished alumni creating a space for open dialogue, authentic storytelling and meaningful mentorship. The latest edition drew families from across the country, offering them not a sales pitch, but an honest conversation about what a career in hospitality truly looks like, told by those who are living it.
Ms Sanchari Chowdhury, Director-IIHM Bangalore and Head-South Operations, IIHM, said,
“At IIHM Bangalore, we believe that true hospitality education happens both inside and outside the classroom. These webinars are a reflection of that belief, an open, honest conversation between our institution and the families who place their trust in us. When we see our alumni thriving in Paris, building careers in the Seychelles and leading teams in the finest hotels across the world, it tells us that the foundation we build here truly lasts. Grooming, communication, adaptability, global exposure and a genuine warmth for people these are not just skills we teach. They are who our students become.”
From IIHM Classrooms to the Streets of Paris
One alumna who graduated in 2022 began her career as a Management Trainee in Sales and Marketing at ITC Hotels, rising to Assistant Manager at ITC Grand Central. Today she is pursuing a Master’s in Luxury and Lifestyle Management at EM Normandy, Paris. Her journey shaped by the Young Chef Olympiad, international educational trips and heading the cultural team at IIHM’s flagship Realia food festival, stood as the emotional centrepiece of the session.
Ms. Vaishnavi, who is now pursuing MSc Luxury & Lifestyle Management, EM Normandy, Paris, said,
“If someone had told me in my first year at IIHM that I would be standing in Paris today, I would probably have laughed. But IIHM shaped me into the person I am, it gave me not just a degree, but experiences, friendships and confidence that have opened doors I never imagined. The skills you gain here can truly take you anywhere.”
Global Placements That Reflect Institutional Depth
A final-year student’s story illustrated just how far IIHM Bangalore’s preparation reaches. She was simultaneously selected for the OCLD programme with Oberoi Hotels, the HMI programme with ITC Hotels, the Southeast Management Trainee Programme with Hilton, the Leela Programme and as a Management Trainee at Raffles Seychelles under Accor Hotels. She also completed an international internship at Long Beach Resorts, Mauritius, participated in the IIHM Scott Malt Educational Tour to Scotland, visiting distilleries including Glenfiddich and Strathisla, the home of Chivas Regal and holds WSET Level 1 and 2 certifications in wines, obtained as part of her curriculum at IIHM, a certified WSET provider.
Ms. Nandini said,
“The WSET certification felt like a natural part of the curriculum. And the Scotland tour, standing in the home of Chivas Regal, speaking to people who have dedicated their lives to this craft that kind of learning stays with you forever. IIHM gave me every tool I needed and then showed me the world.”
Grooming as a Philosophy, not a Rule
A theme that wove itself through every conversation was IIHM’s approach to grooming understood not as a dress code, but as a holistic standard of professionalism, confidence and communication. Students admitted they didn’t always appreciate it in college; it was upon entering the industry that the lesson clicked. Parents, too, observed the difference it makes.
“The energy we see among IIHM students is remarkable not just in how they look, but in the self-assurance and warmth with which they carry themselves. This institution grooms its students in the truest sense: not just in appearance, but in who they become as people,” said, Mr. and Mrs. Bharadwaj, Parent Participants, IIHM Webinar.
IIHM Bangalore’s webinar series is an ongoing initiative, with sessions scheduled throughout the academic calendar. Families who wish to attend an upcoming session, connect with alumni, or learn more about programmes at IIHM Bangalore are encouraged to reach out through the institution’s official channels.