Behind the Scenes of Hospitality Education: Brenda¡¯s Journey in the Co-op Program at °Ç¸çºÚÁÏ | °Ç¸çºÚÁÏ

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Behind the Scenes of Hospitality Education: Brenda¡¯s Journey in the Co-op Program at °Ç¸çºÚÁÏ

Today, we’re highlighting Brenda, one of our Hospitality students .

What is the Hospitality Management Co-op Diploma?

This two-year program blends business education with hands-on hospitality training and real-world co-op work experience. Students learn:

  • Hotel & restaurant operations

  • Customer service management

  • Marketing and sales in the tourism industry

  • Leadership and human resources

  • Event planning and hospitality law

What makes this diploma unique is the co-op placement — students complete 960 hours of paid work experience in the industry. That’s a full year of résumé-building, local references, and career clarity.

Brenda’s Experience: Learning Beyond the Classroom

Brenda, an international student from Brazil, shares weekly updates on what it’s really like to study at °Ç¸çºÚÁÏ.

From morning coffee runs to afternoon lectures on guest relations, co-op interviews, and networking events, she’s made it clear:
You don’t just learn hospitality — you live it.

In one of her recent Instagram takeovers, Brenda walked followers through a day of classes, job prep, and group project meetings. She also shared insights from her co-op role at a boutique hotel in Vancouver, where she applies classroom knowledge to real guest interactions.

Her biggest takeaway?

“The co-op helped me understand what type of hospitality role I actually want. I’ve gained so much confidence by working directly with customers, handling bookings, and learning from my team.”

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Hospitality Management graduates from °Ç¸çºÚÁÏ go on to work in:

  • Hotels and resorts

  • Event planning and tourism agencies

  • Food and beverage management

  • Front desk operations and guest services

  • Cruise lines and international travel companies

According to data from Talent.com, entry-level salaries in Vancouver range from $35,000 to $48,000 per year, with more experienced roles reaching $55,000+ — especially for those with co-op experience under their belt.

Follow Brenda’s Journey

Want to see what student life in hospitality really looks like?

Follow us on Instagram where Brenda and other student ambassadors share day-in-the-life stories, co-op tips, and what it’s like to build a career in Canada’s hospitality industry.