Eamonn McNicholl, the 2012 recipient of the Student Management Potential Award from the Institute of Hospitality (NI), graduates today with a BSc Hons in International Hotel and Tourism Management.

The 22-year-old from Aghadowey, Co Londonderry said the course offered by the University of Ulster had given him the best option to pursue a career in the hospitality industry.

And he believes the Award will enhance his chances of fulfilling his ambition to progress up the career ladder and eventually gain a senior management role within a highly established hotel.

“The course provided me with a platform to study a range of management issues, from accounts to human resource issues, giving me comprehensive knowledge of the concerns management have to deal with in the hospitality industry on a daily basis,” said Eamonn.

“It also gave me a unique opportunity to gain a year’s work experience on an international level, when I secured placements in two prestigious country clubs in Miami and Connecticut, whose clientele included high profile guests from American TV and sport.

“I spent the majority of my time in the food and beverages departments, but I also worked in events and human resources where I learned to develop my skills from a range of people from all over the world.

“I hope the Award is seen as an indication that industry professionals believe I have the necessary management skills to succeed in hospitality and that I can forge a successful career in the future.”

Eamonn has concentrated working in areas connected with food and beverages but hopes to develop his knowledge of the industry through further learning.

He’s currently employed part time with the Roe Park Resort in Limavady. However he’s looking for a graduate level role to begin his career as a promising hospitality professional.