Aleksandra Berta grew up in Serbia in a multicultural family and area. At the age of 14 she was already dreaming about studying tourism, due to her interest in learning more about different cultures and people.
After graduating from high school, life took a different turn, and she started studying law at the University of Novi Sad.
– I was really drawn to two directions: law and tourism. I decided to go with the first option, as at the time it felt like the best solution for me.
Later, she realised her true interests lay elsewhere and began her journey at Haaga-Helia.
– I had a very close person to me living in Finland, and they recommended Haaga-Helia’s Degree Programme in Hospitality and Tourism Management. I looked at all possible options, but Haaga-Helia was the only one that stood out to me.
Networking opportunities through hands-on projects
Aleksandra is grateful for the many networking opportunities her studies have offered: an exchange semester in Genova, working as a customer service representative at the Nordic Business Forum and participating in various projects.
– Haaga-Helia is special because it provides students with so many experiences, real projects and amazing work opportunities. It truly prepares us for working life.
Her favourite part of the studies has been the commissioned course projects with companies. These provided hands-on learning and deeper insight into different sectors of the field.
– The experience and knowledge I have gained working with industry professionals are priceless. This has really broadened my views and helped me to figure out where I want to focus in the future.
A good example is the Experience Designer course, where the students designed experiences for Hotel Arthur and VR, the Finnish railway company.
– Even though the course itself was demanding, I got to learn what happens behind the scenes. There were a lot of trial-and-error situations, but those offered valuable learning and helped us to grow as future professionals.
Haaga-Helia also supports networking through various events such as Restomessut, an annual recruitment fair for hospitality students that gathers employers from hotel, event and restaurant companies.
– That’s where I found my internship as a trainee travel coordinator at Arctic Signature. This opportunity really helped me visualize my future career path and narrow my options.
Advice for future students
While studying at Haaga-Helia, Aleksandra recommends putting yourself out there as much as possible.
– Attend events, participate in projects and connect with other students and professionals who share the same values and goals as you. It’s a priceless kickstart to your career, and you should really take it all in!
