What School Should I Apply To? How to Find the Perfect Path

The right school for you

Choosing the right school is one of the most exciting—and sometimes daunting—steps in your life. With countless options, each with its own appeal, you may find yourself wondering, “What school should I apply to?” This decision is more than picking a name; it’s about finding a place that aligns with your ambitions, values, and the future you envision. Where you study is a life choice that can ultimately shape your relationships and career into adulthood. So, what are some things that you should think about when you are deciding on which schools to apply to?

Key considerations in choosing a school

Before deciding on a field or school, there are several factors to weigh. Here’s what you should consider to make sure you’re making a choice that best fits your aspirations:

1. Interests and Career Goals
   What excites you? This question is key in deciding your academic and career path. Whether it’s a passion for connecting with people, managing teams, creative problem-solving, or traveling, knowing what you enjoy will guide your decision.
    
2. Location and Campus
   Life Where you study matters! Some people thrive in bustling cities, while others prefer smaller towns. A historic campus could inspire you in your studies, while a magnificent view can give you the atmosphere you need to thrive. Another thing to consider is if you want to study close to home, or perhaps study in a new country. Each gives you different opportunities to grow. Additionally, campus life—student clubs, facilities, and extracurricular opportunities—will also shape your experience.
    
3. School and Program Offerings
   Beyond a field of study, consider schools that allow flexibility and unique learning opportunities. Are you the type of person to study from a book, or to learn by doing? Schools with hands-on programs, like those in hospitality, allow students to apply what they learn in real-world settings. Meanwhile, do you prefer a big school that may have more offerings, or a smaller school that is more personalized to you? Each option has pros and cons for you to consider what is the best fit for you.
    
4. Industry Connections
   Look for schools with strong industry networks, as they increase your chances of internships and jobs right after graduation. Institutions with established partnerships open doors to valuable career-launching experiences. A great indicator of industry connections can be the faculty, if the teachers have worked in their respective fields, the alumni network of a school, or if there are career fairs with notable industry names in attendance.
    
5. Rankings and Reputation
   School reputation can be an asset in competitive fields. After all, your school represents you, and you represent your school. A school recognized for excellence in your chosen field can enhance your resume and help open doors worldwide.
    

Why consider studying hospitality?

If you’re looking for a career path that blends management, creativity, travel, and people skills, hospitality could be an ideal choice. Hospitality is a globally rewarding career in one of the most dynamic fields. Here are a few reasons why hospitality might just be the answer to “What school should I apply to?” and why Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS), ranked as the second-best hospitality school in the world, could be the perfect fit for you out of all the hospitality schools in Switzerland:

1. Global Career Opportunities
   Hospitality is one of the most international fields out there, with opportunities worldwide. With the hospitality and tourism industry bigger than ever, there has never been a better time to enter. From hotels and resorts to event planning and tourism management, you’ll find diverse roles wherever your passions may take you.
    
2. Dynamic and Rewarding Work Environment
   No two days are the same in hospitality. Working in hotels, restaurants, or luxury brands allows for a fulfilling experience where problem-solving and customer satisfaction take center stage. When you work with people in real-time, you also get immediate satisfaction with every successful interaction or event.
    
3. Skills for a Lifetime
   Soft skills are in more demand than ever, across every industry. Hospitality management education provides you with critical soft skills like leadership, communication, and cultural awareness which are highly transferable skills, meaning you’ll be well-prepared for roles across various industries.
    
4. Growth Potential
   The hospitality industry is continuously evolving, offering numerous pathways to grow your career. 2024 has seen a surge in hospitality and tourism, surpassing even pre-pandemic levels. From traditional roles in hotels to emerging opportunities in sustainable tourism and digital hospitality, there’s plenty of room for advancement. 

Why Swiss Hotel Management School stands out

Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) is ranked as the second-best hospitality school globally, making it a leading choice for students interested in this field. Here’s why SHMS could be the perfect school for you:

1. World-Class Education in Hospitality
   SHMS is proud to offer hospitality-focused curriculum that blends Swiss tradition with innovative management techniques. The school offers programs at both bachelor’s and master’s levels, providing students with specialized courses in hotel operations, event management, and luxury brand management. This comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates to succeed in the hospitality and luxury service industries anywhere.
    
2. Swiss Hospitality Legacy
   Switzerland has long been associated with excellence in hospitality, and SHMS is a testament to that legacy. By studying in Switzerland, you’ll immerse yourself in the birthplace of hospitality education, where attention to detail, service quality, and professionalism are paramount.
    
3. Hands-On Learning with Real-World Experiences
   One of SHMS’s standout features is its commitment to experiential learning. Students get hands-on training through projects, on-site internships, and simulated hotel environments where they learn every aspect of managing a successful operation. This practical approach ensures that graduates are career-ready from day one.
    
4. Inspiring Campus Locations
   SHMS boasts campuses in Caux and Leysin, two scenic locations that provide an inspiring backdrop for your studies. The historic Caux Palace, where students can experience Swiss heritage firsthand, is a unique feature of SHMS. Studying in these settings means you’ll have access to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes while building your future.
    
5. Global Industry Connections and Internships
   SHMS has established partnerships with some of the biggest names in hospitality, including Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, and Marriott. These connections ensure that students have ample opportunities for internships and jobs post-graduation. The school’s annual International Recruitment Forum (IRF) attracts top employers from around the world, offering direct access to recruiters from prestigious brands.
    
6. A Diverse and Multicultural Community
   SHMS is home to students from over 90 countries, creating a truly global environment. Studying here means you’ll learn alongside peers from diverse backgrounds, giving you the intercultural communication skills that are essential in today’s globalized hospitality industry.
    
7. Career-Ready Graduates
   SHMS alumni work in top positions across luxury hotels, global brands, and event companies worldwide. The school’s rigorous academic structure, combined with its focus on hands-on experience, creates graduates who are confident, capable, and ready to lead in the hospitality industry.

Why SHMS could be your best choice for hospitality

As you weigh your options, you may find yourself continually asking, “What school should I apply to?” If you’re looking for a field that promises global opportunities, continuous growth, and fulfilling work, then hospitality could be an excellent answer. And within hospitality, Swiss Hotel Management School offers a world-class experience designed to prepare you for a leadership role in this exciting industry.

Whether you’re drawn by the prestige of studying in Switzerland, the chance to gain hands-on experience, or the opportunity to connect with global employers, SHMS brings it all together. The school’s combination of tradition, innovation, and real-world experience positions you as a future leader in hospitality.

The best school for you

Choosing the right school is an important decision that will shape your future. By considering what truly matters to you—whether it’s location, campus culture, industry connections, or career prospects—you can narrow down your choices to find the perfect fit.

If a dynamic, people-centered career that opens doors across the globe sounds appealing, hospitality could be your ideal path. And for those ready to pursue excellence in this field, Swiss Hotel Management School offers a unique opportunity to study at the heart of the hospitality industry. With SHMS’s legacy, innovative programs, and strong industry connections, you’ll be equipped with the skills and experience needed to thrive in a rewarding global career.