“Many students studying at Manipal Academy of Higher Education opt for courses that are not considered mainstream. A well-rounded curriculum paired with several opportunities to prove yourself makes the Academy a preferred platform for bold career prospects,” as per Anna Tongbram, a 1st year student of Culinary Arts at Manipal Academy of Higher Education.
Anna feels that students feel confident to pursue their passion at Manipal. So what pushed Anna into pursuing such an unusual choice? Being absolutely clear about what she wanted to do, Anna said, “I wanted to do something I would enjoy doing while earning money and serving people. Whenever I’ve been asked this question, I have always answered saying that I find great happiness in serving people.”
Dare to be different
“Things are not the same as they were a decade ago, where everybody wanted to either be a doctor or an engineer”, mentioned Anna, who is glad that choosing a profession of one’s choice, however unique, is much easier now. She added, “I have seen many engineers and doctors in my family. I wanted to do something different. My father, being a Civil Engineer from IIT Guwahati, was a little reluctant initially, but eventually he supported my decision. My family has huge expectations from me and I’ve been getting a lot of support from them.”
“Talent always needs the right amount of nurturing. And when you are passionate, you want to receive the best education.” shared Anna, who claims that her mind was always set on Manipal because of the reputation it has in and around India. “The Academy has a unique curriculum, which sets it apart from other institutes and gives its students a definite edge,” she said.
Lessons that go a long way
Anna is of the opinion that learning by simulation is a great way to gain experience, especially when it comes to dealing with tricky situations that can arise in the professional world. Recalling one such moment, Anna said, “Once, I was a part of the service team for a simulation. A guest suddenly asked for a dessert which was not a part of the menu plan he had opted for. We still had to make sure that he was served what was promised. This situation was a learning experience for all of us. As students of the hospitality industry, we are taught that a guest is a jewel on the cushion of hospitality.”
A perfect start to 2018
Anna was among the four students of Manipal Academy of Higher Education to feature in the Academy’s latest national ad. On being asked about her experience, an ecstatic Anna said that it was the best New Year’s surprise for her. With WhatsApp messages from friends and family flooding her phone, she exclaimed “I was speechless at first because featuring in a full page ad campaign is huge! I was certainly happy to see myself. However, it also brings along a sense of responsibility to maintain the image of the college. So, I need to work harder and make my parents as well as the Academy proud of my achievements.”
