On the 23rd of September, 2023, from 7:30 am to 12:00 pm, the School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at an undisclosed university embarked on a unique journey to Zoo Negara. This adventure was not only about learning the ins and outs of the hospitality and tourism industry but also about strengthening ties to the community and providing students with an invaluable opportunity to practice and develop their social skills. In this article, we’ll delve into the multiple facets of this educational excursion, shedding light on how it helped students maintain regular contact with others and develop a robust support base.
Strengthening Community Ties:
One of the primary advantages of community engagement, as exemplified by our visit to Zoo Negara, is the reinforcement of bonds with the local community. Educational institutions don’t exist in isolation; they are an integral part of the communities they serve. Encouraging students to actively engage with their community not only brings them closer to the people they are learning to serve but also exposes them to individuals who share similar interests.
The visit to Zoo Negara provided a unique opportunity for students to interact with the community directly. As they immersed themselves in the various aspects of managing a zoo, they engaged with zoo staff, visitors, and even the animals themselves. This hands-on experience fostered a sense of belonging and responsibility. Students felt connected to the cause of wildlife conservation and the mission of the zoo. Such connections can last a lifetime and inspire students to actively participate in community initiatives in the future.
Practicing and Developing Social Skills:
While academic knowledge is crucial, the ability to interact effectively with others is equally important in any field, especially in hospitality and tourism. The visit to Zoo Negara presented students with a unique environment to practice and develop their social skills. They had to communicate with zoo staff, coordinate tasks, and engage with visitors, all of which are critical aspects of the hospitality and tourism industry.
Interacting with people of various backgrounds and interests within a zoo setting required students to adapt to different communication styles, making them more versatile in their future careers. It also allowed them to understand the importance of clear and effective communication when providing services to tourists. These hands-on social experiences will undoubtedly be valuable in their professional journey.
Building a Solid Support Base:
The excursion to Zoo Negara wasn’t just about gaining knowledge and skills; it also served as an opportunity for students to build a strong support base. Working together on tasks, facing challenges, and achieving goals as a team can be a powerful bonding experience. These shared moments create a sense of camaraderie among students, which often leads to lasting friendships.
Moreover, the interaction with zoo staff, who are experienced professionals in the field of hospitality and tourism, allowed students to network and establish connections that could be valuable in their future careers. These connections can open doors to internships, mentorships, and career opportunities, providing students with a head start in their professional journey.
In conclusion, the visit to Zoo Negara on the 23rd of September was not just a field trip; it was a valuable educational experience that went beyond textbooks and lectures. It strengthened community ties, provided a platform to practice and develop social skills, and facilitated the creation of a robust support base. As students move forward in their pursuit of careers in hospitality and tourism, the lessons learned on this day will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping their success and their contributions to the community.
