“The most notable aspect is the practical nature of the program”

February 15, 2013
María José Salvidia, a graduate in Tourism Management and Marketing, Communications, and P-Sofitel Coordinator at Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa, shared her experiences in the job market and as a student.

María José Salvidia

-In what year did you choose to study at Universidad ORT Uruguay, and why?

-In 2007, after living abroad for a few years, I returned to Argentina and decided to pursue a technical degree in Tourism Management at ORT. Family and friends had had very positive experiences at the university, and I knew of its prestige—it ranks among the top 500 in the world and has a high employment rate.

-What did you value most about college?

-The student-run online platform, the prestige of the faculty, and the multidisciplinary curriculum set it apart from other universities.

-How did you come up with the idea of pursuing this degree?

-It stems naturally from my desire to turn what I’ve been doing for years out of a sense of vocation into a professional career. The hospitality industry is fascinating, but it’s essential to have a theoretical foundation and to be in an environment where I can learn from the experiences of other tourism professionals.

-How did the race go for you?

-It’s a constant challenge, between classes, projects, and exams. However, that challenge becomes a goal achieved when you can see the theories reflected in practice—and vice versa.

-What do you remember about your college days?

-Thanks to the course on hotel tourism marketing and its instructor, Roberto Acosta, I discovered an interesting area within the industry that led me to switch my focus within the hospitality sector. The program offers a wide range of options within this field of study, allowing us to see the breadth of opportunities available to those who wish to become professionals in this area in the future.

-What would you highlight about the program?

-The programs are based on a theoretical framework that is highly applicable to real-world situations. The most notable feature is the program's practical focus.

-When did you start working?

-In 2001, I started working for the shuttle bus service of the travel agency that handled the shore excursions for cruise ships calling at Montevideo and Punta del Este. Being in contact with tourists as a summer job inspired me to pursue a career in the hospitality industry, and years later, through a course on hotel tourism marketing, I discovered that it is the marketing of tourism services that I am passionate about.

-How did your degree prepare you for the job market?

-A few years ago, I was working toward a career in the tourism industry; you really need a commitment to customer service. The program equips you with the tools needed for strategic management.

-What are your plans for the future?

-From an academic standpoint, I aim to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and continue developing my professional skills in this field. Professionally, I hope to take on new challenges within the company that will allow me to grow and build a dynamic career in the corporate sector.