Tom Builds Solid Foundation with Hospitality Management Course

A return journey of more that 70 miles is worth the trip for one SERC Tourism student who is on track for a degree qualification.

Tom Jose Idiculla (20), currently studying a Foundation Degree in Tourism, Hospitality & Event Management (Validated by Ulster University), travels from Lurgan to SERC Bangor Campus and back twice a week to complete this step in his education and achieve the building blocks of the future he wants.

Tom completed his GCSEs in Malaysia and travelled to Northern Ireland, where he completed his A-Levels. His current aim is to complete a BA in Management, so a foundation degree is a good first step from which to progress to a full degree.

The course also gives insight into the industry with practical modules, offering real-life learning.

Tom says, “My favourite part of the course is that it has a practical element.  Every Tuesday night we set up and manage the restaurant on campus so it's a lot of work-based learning as opposed to any other sort of course which is classroom-based learning.

“However, one of the best things about SERC is the tutors. They are really friendly and understanding. You are always able to ask for help and there are great resources available both online and in the library.”

Tom concludes, “Once I complete this 2-year course I intend to gain a BA degree at Ulster University.  I have not decided which area to focus on yet; there is a wide choice once I have a foundation degree. I would, ultimately, like to complete a post-graduate qualification after that.

“Completing the Foundation Degree in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management at SERC will allow me to progress to university or become involved in local industry and provide me with work opportunities worldwide.”

If you're exploring your options after A-Levels, SERC provides higher education qualifications including foundation degrees and degrees.  We run courses validated by Liverpool John Moores University, The Open University, Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University. You can also study for a Higher National Certificate or a Higher National Diploma or follow the Higher-Level Apprenticeship route.  Higher Education enrolment days are on Thursday 14 August, 9am-5pm and Friday 15 August, 9am-3pm at our Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards Campuses.