Student Stories

Pursuing higher education has been a long-standing dream of mine. I have always believed that education plays an important role in both personal and professional growth, and I saw it as an important step towards my career aspirations. PSB Academy felt like the right choice because the programme aligned with my goals, while the class schedule allowed me to continue developing professionally alongside my work commitments.  

My learning journey has been a rewarding experience. I have had the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable lecturers and tutors who generously shared their professional experiences and practical insights. Their guidance helped me connect academic concepts with real-world situations, strengthening both my knowledge and professional development.  

Returning to higher education also meant learning skills that were completely new to me. Academic writing, APA 7 formatting, literature reviews, and working with peer-reviewed journals were some of the areas I had to learn along the way. Beyond these technical skills, I learnt how to conduct research systematically and evaluate information more critically. The process has changed the way I approach problems and make decisions, both in my studies and at work. I now have a more structured and evidence-based approach when dealing with challenges.  

Balancing my studies with a demanding career has not always been easy. Given the nature of my work, I am often racing against time and managing multiple responsibilities. However, the experience has strengthened my discipline, resilience and confidence. Looking back, I am proud of how far I have come and reminded that with commitment and perseverance, it is possible to continue growing academically while managing professional responsibilities. 

I currently work as a  Director of Rooms at a 5-star hotel, a role that reflects the dedication, perseverance and experience I have gained throughout my career. My studies have given me a stronger academic foundation for many of the concepts I apply in my daily work, while connecting me with peers from different industries has broadened my perspective. 

The journey has also encouraged me to reflect on the mentors who have supported me throughout my career. Their guidance reminded me of the importance of developing the next generation of hospitality professionals. I hope to share both my practical experience and academic knowledge with my colleagues and support them in their career development, just as others have supported me along the way.  

If there is one thing I would share with others, it is to believe in yourself and not be afraid of failure. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. If I can return to higher education and succeed at 44 while balancing a demanding career, then others can achieve their goals too. Age should never be a barrier to learning. With determination, discipline and perseverance, there is always room to keep developing yourself and building a brighter future.