American Hotel Academy

American Hotel Academy welcomed over 100 people on Saturday, April 6th, for a captivating Open Day Event. The day was marked by insightful presentations, engaging discussions, and interactive workshops, providing a glimpse into the AHA Undergraduate programmes: Hospitality Management and Digital Business. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights of this successful event.

Opening Doors to Opportunities

The event began with a warm welcome, where attendees were introduced to the energetic atmosphere of AHA. Presenters Alexandra Hasegan, Academic Officer, and Bogdan Andrei, Senior Admissions Counsellor, outlined the agenda for the day, setting the stage for the activities ahead.

Special Guests and Inspirational Talks

We were honored to welcome Nastja Pusic, Head of Business Development from IU International University of Applied Sciences, Germany, who provided valuable insights into our new collaborative programme: Digital Business. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the programme’s innovative features, including AI tutoring powered by IU-Syntea, which helped them understand how our learning environment works.

Ioan Mătieș: Motivating AHA’s Next Generation

Ioan Mătieș, General Manager of JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, captivated the audience with his motivational speech, sharing his illustrious career journey and offering valuable insights into the hospitality industry. His words resonated with aspiring professionals, highlighting the opportunities awaiting AHA graduates in esteemed establishments like Marriott. He also mentioned AHA graduates currently excelling within the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel team, showcasing the real-world success stories arising from our Hospitality programme.

Exploring Academic Pathways

Academic Director, Ada Terea, provided a more in-depth look into AHA’s programs, offering valuable comparisons. Through her comprehensive overview of our programmes, attendees gained clarity on the distinct pathways available, making it easier for them to decide on their educational path.

Next, Diana Cucu, our Student Services Coordinator, described her department’s goals and activities. She explained the role of the Student Services department and the role of student government, how they organize parties, and various events like Kindness Week and Movie Nights that contribute to AHA community.

Teodor Berszan, Senior Admissions Counsellor, made the admissions process easier to understand. He also shared exciting news: registration fees for admission interviews scheduled during the event would be waived, which is a great opportunity for prospective students.

After these insightful speeches, we took a productive break. Participants had academy tours and explored our various stands, including Academics, Career, Student Services and Admission. This offered them a comprehensive glimpse into the diverse offerings and support services available at AHA. Additionally, attendees had the invaluable opportunity to network with peers and AHA students.

Panel discussion: Alumni Insights

The event included a captivating panel discussion where AHA alumni—Vlad Popescu, Maria Clara Pop and Iulia Serbanescu—shared their personal journeys and professional growth after graduating from AHA. Each of them recounted how their time at AHA had shaped their careers and equipped them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their career. Their stories were not only inspiring but also offered valuable insights into the tangible benefits of an AHA education. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of how AHA prepares students for the real-world challenges of the hospitality industry, emphasizing the enduring impact of the institution’s educational approach.

Career Opportunities

After the panel discussion, Ana Leah, Director of Organizational Development, took the stage to introduce our Career Office and its invaluable services for students. She provided a comprehensive overview of the opportunities available, including internships that students can pursue while studying at AHA. Ana Leah described diverse career paths students can explore and highlighted the support provided by our dedicated Career Office team throughout their journey at AHA.

Engaging Workshops and Culinary Delights

After a short break, participants were invited to engage in our workshops focused on Hospitality and Business. In the Hospitality workshop, led by Ioana Turcas, AHA Programme Leader, participants learned more about what the programme involves. Moreover, participants had the unique opportunity to indulge in a Wine Pairing session accompanied by a delightful brunch prepared by our talented students, enhancing their hands-on experience.

On the other hand, the Business workshop, led by Nastja Pusic and Ada Terea, provided an opportunity for participants to discover the IU platform and learn more about the collaborative Digital Business programme offered by IU and AHA. Attendees received a firsthand demonstration of Syntea, the AI tutor, showcasing how it aids students in their learning journey. Furthermore, participants indulged in a delicious brunch prepared by AHA students, enriching their informative session with a delightful culinary experience.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their enthusiasm and interest. We eagerly anticipate welcoming future talents into the AHA family, where opportunities await them.

Join us at American Hotel Academy, where every step is a journey towards limitless possibilities in the realms of hospitality and digital business.