Let’s Talk Talent – Get to know Bence Mayer
We are thrilled to introduce you to Bence Mayer, a multi-talented individual currently studying at Breda University of Applied Sciences (BUAS) in the Netherlands and an active member of the HSMAI Europe Student Council. Not only is Bence a dedicated student, but he is also a skilled bartender, comedian, and philanthropist. In this short interview, we had the pleasure of getting to know Bence better and learning more about his journey.
Q: Why did you choose to study Hospitality Management?
I wanted to be surrounded by food and people. I believe there is nothing more nourishing than a good meal in the company of a loved one, so creating and sustaining that nourishment is my goal.
Q: Why are you passionate about hospitality? What makes this industry unique?
It connects three very important things in life: people, food and drinks and does so in an environment that allows for bigger things to happen, such as first dates, birthday celebrations and so on. It allows for life to happen for a small fee.
Q: What are the biggest challenges as a student in hospitality?
The schedule, without a doubt. Pairing studies with a side job can become a lot really fast if you don’t stay on top of your game.
Q: The hospitality industry – as many others – faces the challenge of attracting and retaining talent. Do you have any thoughts on this that you would like to share with us?
Well, I have good and bad experiences with this, I think it depends on the individual companies culture, rather than the industry. There are great managers in place even in dysfunctional organizations, that make your day just a little better, and there are less-than-great people in amazing companies as well. As the coin flips, I guess.
Q: Why did you decide to join the HSMAI Europe Student Council?
To give opportunities to meet new people with similar interests and to broaden my horizons as to what my life can be.
Q: How is HSMAI Europe Student Council helping your studies/students?
It gives me opportunities with networking, that I couldn’t dream of a couple years ago. It puts you in the room where you need to be.
Q: What is your dream job when you graduate?
If you ask me again tomorrow, I will have a different answer for you. I probably will stay in the hospitality/entertainment sector, as you have food, drinks and music here, so I am pretty much bought.
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
Give a place and time for yourself and go to a restaurant or bar alone at a time when it is not too busy, and talk to the people there. You will find out things you could never know in any other way.
