Kayode applied for the careers at Hilton programme. He shared the opportunity with his friends and was eventually shortlisted to be a part of the program. Kayode shares his experience during the program with ACE Charity. Below are the excerpts;
How did you find out about the opportunity?
I was told about the careers@Hilton program by a friend. He gave me the information two days to the close of the application.
How did you feel when you were called for the interview?
I was elated! After receiving the message from ACE Charity, I called my friend to check if he got called as well but unfortunately, he did not.
How was the interview experience?
I thought I was prepared for the interview but some of the questions threw me off. I was so sure I was unsuccessful because unlike others, my interview was ridiculously short.
How was the internship experience?
The internship was exciting. We had morning sessions which involved relevant presentations and motivational talks from different guest speakers. I also learnt a lot from the ACE staff, they were pivotal in facilitating the internship process.
How did you end the programme?
After three (3) productively intense weeks, the programme ended on a high note. We had a very nice graduation ceremony, the General Manager and most top management staff of the Transcorp Hilton, were there to celebrate with us. Though I did not win the best performing intern, I left with so much more than I started with. I learnt that contrary to what I thought, Hospitality business is not stereotypical to one aspect of discipline, it is multi-faceted.
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Did you learn any relevant career skills?
Most definitely! I learnt a variety of skills particularly communication, leadership and interpersonal relations and customer relationship management. I also learned to give detailed reports which has come in useful in my current role as an ACE Charity Resource Staff.
What advice do you have for other young people hoping to participate in the careers at Hilton program?
The facilitators are nice but strict! (laughs). I will advise them to come unassuming so that their learning is not hindered in any way. They should also know that the duration of the internship will go by very quickly meaning they should seize every opportunity to learn and network.
