An indirect path to the ideal career

Anthony Renehan’s journey to a career in hospitality took an indirect route. He was already studying another degree when he had a change of mind that altered everything.

"When I graduated high school in 2005, I was accepted to study interior design at another university. After two and a half years, I decided it wasn’t for me and I left to take up a full-time retail management position. The job was a good introduction to customer service and I was responsible for a small team selling and buying gold bullion.

I soon decided that retail wasn’t for me, but a career in hospitality would allow me to combine my love of helping people with opportunities to see the world and meet interesting people.

When it came to picking a university, I went with VU because they had the best hospitality course. The lecturers were superb and took a real interest in their students.

In my third year I was selected for the RACV Club Co-op program. I worked in a paid full-time position at RACV Club, rotating through most departments in the business including housekeeping, front office, membership and food and beverage.

The program gave me invaluable industry experience and taught me more than I could have ever learned in a classroom. Participating in the co-op program led to me obtaining a permanent position with RACV Club.

My long-term career goal is to become a hotel manager and the best hotel managers understand how hard it is to make a bed!"

Anthony’s advice for students looking at university options?

"I would recommend VU as they are able to offer amazing opportunities with their industry partners. I also think the new block model style of teaching is a great idea and shows VU is always thinking of how to help improve the learning experience for students."