<p><span class="p-body">Designed for busy professionals who are ready to take the next big step in their careers, the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-global-hospitality-management.html" target="_blank">MS in Global Hospitality Management</a> program at the NYU SPS <a href="/content/sps-nyu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/jonathan-m-tisch-center-of-hospitality.html" target="_blank">Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality</a> is a complete immersion in the hospitality industry. Ji Yeon Baik is a student in the program who was excited to place herself at the center of it all. We recently caught up with her to learn more about her background, her experience in the program so far, and where she sees herself going next.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Ji Yeon is from South Korea and brought with her a strong multicultural background with her to NYC. She attended a French school from kindergarten through high school before deciding to experience traditional Korean university life. This unique experience has shaped her perspective on education and her career in hospitality. She is passionate about sports, having played handball, touch rugby, and frisbee in high school and winning MVP in university handball tournaments. Nowadays, she enjoys playing golf with friends and family and, of course, traveling—an interest that complements her chosen field of study.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">She chose NYU primarily for its location in New York City, a place that offers the fast-paced environment she is accustomed to from her life in Seoul. She appreciated the convenience of not needing a car and the ease of meeting new people in a city where everything is accessible. NYU's reputation and the Global Hospitality Management program's strong industry connections were also major draws. She sought a program that could provide real-world experiences and insights into the field, something that NYU has delivered through its diverse faculty and dynamic approach.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">The first thing she noticed as a student at NYU was the diversity of her classmates and professors and the emphasis on real-world learning. She found it refreshing and invaluable to be taught by professors who are still actively working in the hospitality industry. This is a stark contrast to her experience in Korea, where professors were primarily academics with no concurrent industry roles. The firsthand stories from her professors about their experiences in the field, as well as the many guest speakers they brought into the classroom, gave her a clearer picture of what to expect in the hospitality industry. These stories have broadened her perspective and introduced her to aspects of the industry she hadn't considered before.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Her favorite part of her NYU experience has been the connections she's made, both with professors and with peers from around the world. She believes that these connections are the foundation of a successful career, providing networking opportunities that can open doors to future jobs and collaborations.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">While she hasn't had the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences like capstones or practicums yet, her time at NYU SPS has still been instrumental in preparing her for her career. She shares,</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">She particularly valued her legal issues class, which she found to be the most impactful. The class, taught by a practicing lawyer, involved real-life legal cases that gave her a deeper understanding of the complexities of the hospitality industry. It taught her the importance of being cautious and mindful in her future career, as there are numerous scenarios that could potentially lead to lawsuits—situations she hadn't considered before.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">After completing her program, Ji Yeon initially applied for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to gain work experience in the United States. However, she faced challenges as many recruiters were hesitant to hire someone on a one-year OPT visa. This experience was disappointing, revealing a stark reality for many international students hoping to start their careers in the US She has since returned to Korea and is exploring job opportunities either there or in Germany. Her interest in sports and sports tourism has grown, and she sees Europe as a potential place to develop her career, given its strong sports culture.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Reflecting on her time at NYU, Ji advises incoming students to be proactive about networking and participating in events. She believes that building connections and enjoying life in New York City is crucial, as these experiences are unique and won't come again. &quot;I recommend going there and making as many connections as possible because it will be helpful,&quot; she says.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">For Ji Yeon, earning her Master's degree at NYU SPS has been an advantageous opportunity to immerse herself in a global city, learn from industry professionals, and prepare for a future in hospitality that bridges her passions for sports, travel, and culture.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Dive head-first into the ever-growing global hospitality industry when you pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-global-hospitality-management.html" target="_blank">MS in Global Hospitality Management</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>