Lot of Fun
Why did you choose the Degree Programme in Facility Management?
I am Lisa Wanja Munaita, a graduate of the Degree Programme in Facility Management in 2003. Facility managegment by term is very versatile. Looking at what Facility Managers do on a daily basis was the driving force for me. This program offered the opportunity to learn the basics that would allow me to be versatile in the professional field. I found the World would readily use my skills and help me develop further as the Facility Management profession is still developing. In North America, it is more developed but requires further experience.
What was best in your studies?
The possibility to be in class with various cultures, the possiblity to learn the Finnish culture while still undertaking my studies in English was quite interesting. The fact that I had so many options on elective courses was fantastic and ofcourse the choice between Consumer Communication and Facility Management still meant I did have a choice, which is always a great thing!
Where did you do your practical training periods?
My Internship was in Marco Island-Marriott International, Florida. In this hotel, I learned quite a great deal about the Food and Beverage department and I was offered the opportunity to train in Banquets, and Front Office procedures including training on the job.
This internship gave me the opportunity to live and learn the business ethics and ettiquette of America, which was extremely eye opening.
Did you study abroad?
I joined Hanze University Groningen in Autumn 1999, for a year to pursue facility management oriented studies. This was an amazing experience, great school, with many international students and a great freedom to mix and meet with students from all around. The academic part was the challenge I had expected and this meant excelling to greater heights. During this time, I picked quite a few business courses that prepared me for decision making process in a business environment.
What was the topic of your thesis?
Since the degree programme Facility Management was still new, my thesis sought to evaluate the same. It was titled 'The Facility Management Programme - The students voice their opinions'
Where do you work at the moment?
I was hired before I even finished writing my thesis based on my internship reference. I joined The Inn at Manitou Canada (a seasonal Relais & Chateaux property) in 2003 and worked each Summer until 2006. In 2006 I was hired while still at the Inn at Manitou by what has been named The number 1 hotel in Canada and second in North America by the Travel & Leisure Magazine-The Wickaninnish Inn. I have been a Front Office Supervisor and acting Assistant Manager for the Front of the House.
What career plans do you have?
I have now decided to go back to do my Masters next Autumn. I will work in Hospitality until further notice.
What would you like to say to the future applicants/students of the Degree Programme in Facility Management?
I found so much choice in the Facility Management Degree programme. It gave me much opportunity to diversify and even choose what kinds of Properties to work for. I found work very easily abroad and I had a lot of fun in the Programme! Whether you want to be in the Hotel Industry or in Property Management, Facility Management will give you the basic start to help you take off! You will find yourself equipped with a variety of knowledge and skills to be able to handle different challenges on an International level. Best Wishes in unlocking your future!
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Degree Programme in Facility Management