Student Spotlight - Ascension Lope Plaza
Hospitality is a major contributor to the Scottish economy and is the third largest employer in Scotland, accounting for around 10% of national employment.
With highly commended programmes delivered in partnership with the crème de la crème of industry professionals, we offer invaluable skills to prepare you for your career in hospitality.
In this week’s blog, we meet a student who has just finished her FIFTH course at UHI Perth! 👇
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Ascension Lope Plaza, and I am from Spain.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
My beginnings as a student go back five years ago when I started on ESOL – English as a Foreign Language. I then moved on to do Next Steps to Learning, followed by SVQ Professional Cookery SCQF 5 and 6. I have just finished HNC Professional Cookery.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
It was through my sister-in-law; they were the ones who pushed me to start. She was also studying at the college at that time.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was working at Crieff Hydro Hotel as a waitress.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
After progressing in the courses to improve my English, I decided to join the Hospitality and Food Studies department as my passion and my previous jobs in Spain were related to the hospitality industry. Cooking is what I have always been passionate about and I decided to learn Scottish cooking and techniques.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
Interacting with the lecturers, all the practical classes, techniques from different people, new ingredients, menus, basically everything related to cooking!
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
One of the most memorable moments was the night when I was preparing the service in the restaurant as head chef. I selected a menu of Mediterranean cuisine and after the service, the customers feedback made me feel fulfilled.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
All the knowledge learned in this course, including financial control, will help me both to work in the industry and in the future to open my own business.
The college-facilitated tour to visit ScotHot 2023 in Glasgow was a fantastic experience - being able to see and learn from other chefs' performances, try local produce, and see all the industrial equipment with new innovations.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
I have had excellent support. My PAT - Rhona Mcluskey - has been crucial, providing me with all the tools, feedback, and help so that I could finish the course successfully.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I have gained confidence in my possibilities, customer satisfaction, taking a risk, working towards a goal, epic experiences, competitive wins, taking on responsibility, helping others, and gaining recognition.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
I know all the campus facilities but, unfortunately, I haven't had much time to enjoy some of them. I've only used the library and Costa.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
Studying at UHI Perth has been one of the most rewarding experiences and has given me the opportunity to acquire a large amount of knowledge: IT, communication; the English language; self-confidence; and the opportunity to interact with professionals in the field of the hospitality industry, enriching my knowledge and providing me with a great vision and tools for future plans.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
My hobbies outside of studies are travelling, learning about other cultures and cuisines, gardening, and enjoying family.
What are your future career plans?
My future plans are to continue researching cookery to gain more knowledge and try to gain experience in the hospitality sector.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
My advice to someone who is thinking of starting to study at UHI Perth is simple - `do it’. It’s the best experience you can have. You will interact with a lot of people and improve and gain knowledge. I think there is no better way to get what you want.
