Four years at HMSM, looking back at the highs and lows

“It is not going to be easy, but it will be worth it in the end. You will encounter a lot of experiences and moments that will help shape who you are for the better.”

Sadean Suheimat is a 22 year old student in her last year at the Hotel Management School Maastricht. She is an American/Jordanian, born in the US and lived in different countries including the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Jordan. In her free time she enjoys spending her time with friends and family as well as taking photos. When she was younger she enjoyed swimming and doing ballet! 

Nav Singh, third year student, interviewed Sadean to ask her about her experiences during her time at Hotel School and for advice for students in the first, second and third year. 

What brought you to Hotel Management School Maastricht?

My passion for hospitality began when I was a young girl visiting hotels and wondering how they worked. Not only was I fascinated by the inner workings of a hotel, I have also always been a people-oriented person, therefore making hotel management a clear cut choice for me. As for my choice of the HMSM: In Maastricht they work with the PBL system and that intrigued me to join and study here. 

For those who are yet to get to the module with PBL, it stands for ‘problem based learning’ where students are encouraged to learn through experience of solving open-ended issues. This is taught in the second year of education at the HMSM. 

What has been the toughest moment so far?

For me, it was the time shortly before the operational internship (in year 2). I had a lot of stress with juggling exams, the Masterclass programme, and finding an internship. Once I found my internship, I had to begin to think about how I was going to transport my belongings as I would be going away for 6 months. With all of this taking place in the first half of year 2, I found myself immersed in a stressful situation, but I have learned from it and conquered it in the end!

What has been the most fun moment so far?

One of my most fun moments was during the earlier days at the HMSM. The gastronomic event that was held in the first year brought me a lot of joy. I also deeply enjoyed the Masterclass program that I completed in my time here. Apart from these, I love that I met so many people that have become part of my close circle here in Maastricht!

Where are you doing your managerial internship?

Originally, I would have liked to go to London. However, due to Brexit this was no longer an option for me. Instead, I have opted to go back to my roots in Jordan. I am passionate about events and there is a high demand for this in Jordan. Moreover, I have never worked in Jordan before and it will be a great experience. My internship is at the St. Regis Amman Jordan, at the Event Sales Department. I am looking forward to making the most of my internship! 

What would be your dream hotel to work at and a dream position?

At a St. Regis or a Ritz Carlton in a renowned location as a General Manager! 

And lastly… a tip you have for us?

“It is not going to be easy, but it will be worth it in the end. You will encounter a lot of experiences and moments that will help shape who you are for the better.”

While it may seem like there is a lifetime until you can say the same, the time will pass quicker than you think and next thing you know, you’ll be holding that well deserved degree too!