Some extracts from the Institute of Hospitality quarterly management magazine Issue 07/2024 by Paul Evans....

This was very thought-provoking article about how useful a degree in Tourism & Hospitality would be?

In the competitive landscape of the modern job market, a university degree has often been emphasised as a critical factor for future success. However, while certainly an asset, it is not the sole predictor of an individual's potential or suitability for a role. In fact, a person's passion and enthusiasm for their chosen path are essential requirements in the service industry and contribute significantly to professional achievement.?

EDUCATION BY DEGREES

First, it is critical to acknowledge the importance of a degree in the context of career development; it may provide a foundation of knowledge, critical thinking and, in many cases, expertise in a particular field. But most of all, the achievement of a degree serves as a formal acknowledgment of a student's commitment to learning and acquiring essential proficiencies, and signals to employers that a graduate has undergone a structured education and possesses a certain level of cognitive competency and personal resilience.

This is particularly true of mature students who by undertaking long and arduous study are then able to evidence the transferable ability to multitask - balancing work, family commitments.

However, the ever-evolving job market demands more than academic qualifications and resilience - it requires a diverse set of transferable soft skills, which may not be attained at a college or university. Furthermore, the rapid pace of technological advancement may often render some formal learning obsolete and those who rely solely on that may find themselves struggling to keep up with industry trends and innovations. Ultimately, team members require personal attributes such as passion and enthusiasm to inform their knowledge and understanding, and contribute to their advancement...............

DEDICATION?

As Confucius said, "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." Passion in career terms can manifest in various forms. It might be a love for an industry, people diversity, a commitment to a cause, or an interest in solving complex social problems. It is a driving force that goes beyond the (perhaps) theoretical understanding gained through conventional instruction. It is the unwavering intense enthusiasm for a subject or field that drives individuals to excel. And it means they are more likely to invest the time

Ultimately, team members require personal attributes such as passion and enthusiasm to inform their knowledge and understanding, and contribute to their advancement.?

CONCLUSION

The argument for these qualities does not preclude education; they are complementary. Ideally, individuals should seek to combine their academic pursuits and their passions, creating a dynamism that propels them towards success. For example, someone who is dedicated to conservation may choose to pursue a degree in environmental science or sustainable development. This academic foundation can provide them with the knowledge necessary to contribute meaningfully to their chosen field. However, it is commitment to a cause that will drive them to go beyond the classroom, engage in relevant projects and seek opportunities to make a positive impact. The degree, then, becomes an asset, not for its own sake, but for the doors it can open. In a world that values adaptability, creativity and a diverse set of proficiencies, passion and enthusiasm are transformative in driving personal and professional success. Combined with education and skills, it allows people to position themselves for rewarding and impactful careers that take them beyond their degree to fulfil their potential.

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