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."