College Options For Zharif

My son, Zharif, would like to enroll in Diploma In Hospitality Management program but was not sure which college to go to. While he has submitted his application via the UPU portal for options in any Public Universities, he also would like to look at the private colleges options.

So, we visited two private colleges that offers this program. First, we went to Berjaya University College of Hospitality. Situated on the 11^th Floor of Berjaya Times Square, the reception area was impressive. It is like a hotel lobby. According to the program councilor, BUCH concept is to immerse their students into the actual hotel environment, from class room (that looks like a meeting or conference room), the kitchen, to the café and restaurant. The layout of the library is contemporary, so is the computer lab. Accessibility is rather easy by LRT and monorail. The atmosphere is filled with friendly staff and students. The various awards won by the students were on display for public view. The college guarantees student placement for their practical in the Berjaya owned hotels or affiliate hotels.

Next, we visited Taylors University College at Subang Jaya. Zharif had gone there a few months earlier with his cousin while it was my first trip there. I feel that its location is quite far from where we stay and the hostel facilities cost quite a bit. Environment wise, it is a typical private university. The library is just as typical college library and we were not shown the classrooms. Teaching restaurants were viewed from the front only and we could not view the kitchen. The place is just like any typical private college filled with unfriendly, rich youngsters and stressful staff. Even the councilor who guided us looked stressed. For students practical placement, the college only has one of its own teaching hotel. Most students will be placed at affiliate hotels of own choice.

Now, it is for a family discussion to decide which college is the best option for Zharif. Next intake is 7 May 2012, so  we got to be quick.