The 10-day summer program jointly organized by the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management (FHTM) of Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST) and the Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) concluded successfully from June 7 to 16, 2025. Led by Assistant Professor Jasmine Chen from FHTM, the program attracted outstanding students from FHTM, the School of Business, and the School of Humanities and Arts, showcasing the University’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning and international talent development.
Group Photo
Integrating professional coursework with cultural exploration, the program aimed to broaden students’ global perspectives, enhance intercultural communication skills and professional competence, and ignite their interest and global awareness in the fields of hospitality, tourism, and service industries.
The academic portion of the program focused on core topics in hospitality and tourism management, including luxury brand marketing, cross-cultural business etiquette, entrepreneurial leadership, and innovation and sustainability. Courses were delivered through interactive methods such as role-playing, group discussion, and hands-on activities to encourage critical thinking and intercultural expression. For example, in the business etiquette course, students simulated international social situations to learn about communication norms across cultures. In the cocktail mixology class, students transformed into creative “mixologists,” crafting drinks that combined flavor, aesthetics, and personal flair in a relaxed yet inspiring environment.
Students Learning Mixology
Cocktail Mixology Program Culmination
Beyond the classroom, participants engaged in a series of cultural experiences. In the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, students took a vintage train ride through scenic lakeside vineyards and sampled local white wines at a hillside winery. They hiked snowy trails and took in breathtaking views at Glacier 3000, explored medieval history at the Chillon Castle, and enjoyed the sweet delight of artisanal chocolate-making at the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory, where they observed the production process and participated in tastings.
In Geneva, students visited the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum—the only museum in the world dedicated to humanitarian causes. Through multimedia exhibits and archival materials, they gained a deep understanding of the fragility of peace and the importance of global citizenship.
Lavaux Vineyard Terraces – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Maison Cailler – Switzerland’s Renowned Chocolate Factory
At the end of the program, a certificate presentation ceremony was held to celebrate the students’ achievements. SHMS instructors spoke highly of the MUST students, praising their active participation, clear expression, respectful attitude, strong teamwork, and high level of engagement. The business etiquette instructor even photographed the classroom after students had left, impressed by its tidiness, calling the group “one of the most courteous and well-mannered student cohorts” he had taught. All of this clearly reflects the excellent overall quality and cross-cultural competence of students from Macau University of Science and Technology.
Certificate Presentation Ceremony
Students also shared their reflections on the trip: Hu Xinyue from FHTM described the experience as “a fulfilling and joyful journey.” She found the courses practical and inspiring, while the cultural activities pushed her boundaries and broadened her perspective. She expressed heartfelt thanks to Professor Jasmine for her care and to Swiss mentor Hamilcar for his support, describing the group as “a warm and close-knit family.” Meng Jiaqi from the School of Humanities and Arts likened the experience to “a precious Swiss summer memory,” where companionship and warmth created lasting human connections “as rich and sweet as chocolate.” Wang Yinan from the School of Business said the trip not only improved her professional knowledge and English communication skills but also deepened her understanding of the global hospitality industry. Zhao Pufan from FHTM shared that this was his first time abroad, fulfilling his long-held dream of visiting Switzerland. Through learning and exploration, he realized that “life itself is a journey”—a lesson he will always cherish.
The summer program not only enhanced students’ academic and intercultural competencies but also strengthened the University’s collaboration with international hospitality education institutions. FHTM will continue expanding its global platforms to cultivate hospitality and tourism talents with international vision, social responsibility, and practical capabilities.
