We interviewed Ruth Sunaina Nidigattu, currently enrolled in the International Master in Tourism & Hospitality Management at EADA, to learn more about her experience during the programme.
Ruth was born in Vishakhapatnam (India) and has been living in Muscat (Oman) for many years. She graduated in Business Administration last year and is passionate about photography and travelling.
What have been the highlights of the master so far?
One of the main highlights has been meeting so many people from all over the world, learning about their cultures and lifestyles. Apart from the diverse classes, the Leadership Development Programme in EADA’s Residential Training Campus has taught me a lot about myself and how to deal with different personalities. The leadership and teamwork skills I learnt there have definitely prepared me for real professional situations.
Last but not least, the International Business Trip to Greece was amazing- the best 5 days of learning, experiencing, bonding with my colleagues and making memories for a lifetime.
Tell us more about the business trip to Greece
The trip consisted of several company visits and courses about new trends in Greek tourism at Alba Business School. We visited Celestyal Cruises and The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel, where we learnt about its work culture, the recruitment process and training programme, and career growth within the company.
During the trip, we also stayed at the 5-star Costa Navarino Resort in Greece, where we learnt how each department functions and how much structure and background work is required to run such a well-established luxury hotel. I was able to make the connection and link my experience at this hotel to my courses.
How have the leadership modules helped you prepare to become a leader in the hospitality industry?
The indoor and outdoor leadership activities in the Residential Training Campus helped me work on my creativity, team building and leadership skills. We performed tasks that made us step out of our comfort zones and become leaders within our small groups – all of this has prepared us to be effective leaders in real-world situations after graduation. The outdoor activities specifically pushed us to motivate each other and overcome our fears.
The indoor activities pushed us to work in teams and use strategy while we put things together to bring out the best results. I found myself to be more patient and learnt to listen to everybody’s perspective before taking a final decision. I learnt that there’s no winning or losing but its more about giving the best shot I can that gives me satisfaction.
I feel that I am the best version of myself after EADA.
What advice would you give to future EADA students?
I would suggest that they interact with everyone, not just the students in your class, but also those from the other master’s programmes. Do not be shy – step out of your comfort zone and it will build up your confidence.
Read all case studies, as it is key –and not just for class discussions– for gaining knowledge that is directly applicable to real-life business situations.
Remember to keep your social life and professional life separate, since there are a lot of interesting projects. This might be challenging, but it teaches you how to work hard and play hard!
How would you summarise your experience at EADA?
Barcelona has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. The situations I’ve been put in and the people that I’ve met have taught me unimaginable things. I feel that I am the best version of myself after EADA.
