EPI Hospitality Unit students introduced to the World of Vacation Ownership
Eagle Beach. — A group of secondary vocational education (MBO) students, enjoyed an expertly organized half-day immersive program focusing on The World of Vacation Ownership, at an interactive event, at La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino.
The program aimed at creating awareness of the career and entrepreneurial opportunities within the vacation ownership industry in Aruba.
Students ages 16-17, met at La Cabana Beach Resort &Casino ballroom and following ice-breaking introductions were divided into groups for a challenging Career Scavenger Hunt visiting five resort departments for firsthand sessions under the guidance of resort associates.
During their tour of the resorts, students learned to mix a perfect mocktail, make dessert, create a tie-die t-shirt, as they traveled from the Food & Beverage department to the Kitchen and the Activities department finding their way around the resort by deciphering puzzling clues.
As they got together again, for some snacks and refreshments they were again challenged with group projects, where they had to brainstorm and produce an innovative concept for an upscale pool cabana, designed to answer guests’ vacation needs, with family members.
Their subsequent presentations in front a panel of judges, received applause from all present in the room.
Aruba’s students turned out to be creative!
ATSA president, Sulaika Kelly, Playa Linda, explained that the program, titled the World of Vacation Ownership, stands for an immersive, behind-the-scenes look into the world of vacation ownership, aimed at particularly those from vocational and practical educational tracks.
The students were guided through La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino where they discovered what the industry truly offers. This included interacting with young professionals employed by the resort and exploring real-life career options. The program challenged the students to work in groups and build an early professional awareness.
The morning also featured a 360 photobooth, goodie bags, snack, and refreshment breaks, before being returned to their respective schools. For secondary vocational education, understanding hospitality, and most importantly the timeshare sector is vital. It represents a major segment of the global tourism market, offering unique employment models in sales, marketing, and resort management.
Kelly thanked her partners from the University of Aruba, and the business community for helping orchestrate the successful, to be repeated event, together.
