Inyoung (Steve) Jo
Master of International Hospitality Management student
Being able to connect academic learning with his practical experience in the hotel industry is what he has enjoyed most about his studies, says Inyoung (Steve) Jo who came to AUT as an international student from South Korea.
“I chose the Master of International Hospitality Management because I wanted to deepen my understanding of the hospitality industry, and prepare for future leadership and management roles. One of the main reasons I chose AUT was its strong international reputation in hospitality education. I appreciate that my programme includes applied projects, case studies, presentations, group work and research projects related to real issues in the hospitality and tourism industries. For example, my courses have given me opportunities to analyse hospitality marketing, luxury guest experiences, financial strategies, crisis management and strategic management. These practical learning experiences have helped me develop skills in critical thinking, teamwork, communication, research, problem-solving and decision-making.”
He says AUT has encouraged him to look at hospitality from a much broader perspective than he expected.
“Before starting my master's degree, much of my experience was focused on hotel operations and guest service. Through courses such as Managing Luxury, Hospitality Marketing Research, Profitable Financial Strategies for Responsible Enterprises, and Strategic Management in Hospitality, I’ve developed a broader understanding of hospitality management beyond day-to-day hotel operations. I’ve also had the opportunity to develop my own research interests and prepare for a dissertation. This has encouraged me to explore career progression and the competencies required for management roles in the hotel industry, which is closely connected to my own long-term career goals.”
Balancing study and work
Like many students, Inyoung is balancing his studies with work; an achievement he is particularly proud of.
“I’m proud of successfully progressing through my master's degree while also working professionally in the hospitality industry. Balancing postgraduate study with my role as a night auditor at The Grand by SkyCity has been challenging at times, but it has helped me become more disciplined, confident and better able to connect academic learning with real hotel operations. I’m also proud to be progressing towards the dissertation stage of my degree and developing a research topic that is closely connected to my long-term career in hotel management. After graduation, I’d like to continue developing my career in the hotel industry and progress into a duty manager or front office management role. In the longer term, my goal is to move into senior hotel management. I’d like to combine the practical experience I’ve gained working in hotels with the management and research knowledge I have developed through my master’s degree at AUT.”
He wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT’s international hospitality management programmes to others.
“I’d highly recommend AUT, particularly to students who want to combine academic learning with practical industry knowledge. The hospitality industry is international and constantly changing, and AUT provides opportunities to understand both current industry challenges and future trends. Throughout the programme, I’ve appreciated the support and guidance from my lecturers. They’ve encouraged me to think critically, improve my academic work and connect my studies with my future career. I’m particularly grateful to Dr Pola Wang for her guidance and support in developing my research interests and preparing for the dissertation stage of my master's degree. I also appreciate studying in a diverse environment where students from different cultural and professional backgrounds can share their experiences and perspectives.”
Advice for other students
Inyoung, who expects to complete his studies in 2027, has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“My advice is to make the most of both your academic studies and practical opportunities. Hospitality is an industry where academic knowledge and real-world experience complement each other very well. If possible, gain industry experience while studying and try to connect what you learn in class with what you experience at work.”
Don’t be afraid of challenges, he adds.
“Studying at postgraduate level, especially in a different country and language environment, can be demanding, but every challenge can become an opportunity to learn, develop confidence and grow professionally.”
