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Beyond the Kitchen: Spandana's Leadership Journey at BHMS

Three years ago, Spandana Juneja arrived in Switzerland with a passion and a vision for her future. Today, as she prepares for her final year in the BA Culinary Arts program at BHMS, she has evolved into something she never expected—a leader, mentor, and advocate for her fellow students. Her journey from Delhi to becoming an active Student Council member showcases how BHMS nurtures not just culinary skills, but the confidence and community spirit that define tomorrow's industry leaders.

I’ve learned how to lead, how to follow, and how to work in an environment filled with passionate individuals.

A strategic choice in the heart of Europe

Spandana's decision to choose BHMS wasn't made lightly. "What brought me to BHMS, besides the heaven that is Switzerland, were the guaranteed paid internships and the diverse student community," she explains with genuine enthusiasm. The course structure and program flexibility that initially attracted her have proven to be exactly what she needed for her three-year journey of growth and discovery.

For Spandana, studying in Switzerland has opened doors she never imagined. "Living in Switzerland, and Europe in general, has given me so many opportunities to travel to nearby countries. It's been a dream come true, especially going on trips with the friends I've made here and creating memories that'll last forever." This European adventure has enriched her perspective both personally and professionally, exposing her to diverse gastronomic cultures that fuel her passion for the culinary arts.

They equip us with not just knowledge, but how to actually apply it in the real world.

Culinary arts at BHMS: Building creativity on a strong foundation

The BA in Culinary Arts at BHMS offers students the unique opportunity to choose between two specialized pathways—Culinary Arts or Pastry, Chocolate, and Bakery—while earning dual degrees from both BHMS and Robert Gordon University in the UK. This comprehensive program blends hands-on culinary operations with advanced techniques, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

"We don't just learn techniques, we learn how to approach different cuisines and how to build creativity on a strong foundation," Spandana reflects on her educational experience. The program's state-of-the-art facilities include seven professional kitchens where students master everything from fundamental knife skills to complex ingredient pairings and the intricate art of chocolate tempering, all under the guidance of experienced chefs.

What sets BHMS apart is its holistic approach to culinary education. "I think the holistic education we get at BHMS is honestly amazing. They equip us with not just knowledge, but how to actually apply it in the real world," Spandana notes. In her third year, she's diving deep into product development and managing comprehensive food and beverage businesses, including HR, financial planning, and staffing—skills that prepare graduates for leadership roles in the industry.

The staff here have been especially welcoming and always motivate me. They're super approachable, and I really appreciate the simple, direct communication with faculty.

Beyond the classroom: Leadership and community impact

Spandana's journey at BHMS extends well beyond her culinary studies. As an active member of the Student Council, she embodies the spirit of giving back that defines the BHMS community. "My main reason for joining Student Council was to give back to the school. I wanted to make sure every student here has as lovely an experience as I have," she explains with genuine care for her fellow students.

Her leadership philosophy focuses on empowerment: "Sometimes we have all these tools available, but it's not clear how to use them. I want to help students feel empowered to not only use those tools, but to go beyond and achieve great things." This dedication to supporting others extends to her role as a student advisor, where she provides academic help twice a week, demonstrating the collaborative spirit that thrives at BHMS.

The faculty and staff at BHMS have been instrumental in creating this supportive environment. "The staff here have been especially welcoming and always motivate me. They're super approachable, and I really appreciate the simple, direct communication with faculty," Spandana shares. This approachable academic environment, combined with learning from passionate peers, has taught her invaluable lessons in leadership, teamwork, and working in high-energy environments filled with dedicated individuals.

I want to help students feel empowered to not only use those tools, but to go beyond and achieve great things.

Looking ahead: Europe, exploration, and endless possibilities

Living in Lucerne has provided Spandana with complete cultural immersion. "I absolutely love all kinds of art, so I feel lucky to be surrounded not just by nature, but also by museums and galleries," she says. The strategic European location has allowed her to explore diverse gastronomic cultures across the continent, experiences that directly enrich her culinary education.

As Spandana looks toward graduation, her aspirations reflect the global opportunities that BHMS provides. "I'd love to stay in Europe, so I've been looking into possible job opportunities in a few countries here. The gastronomic culture fascinates me," she shares. Her career philosophy embodies the dedication that BHMS instills: "Career-wise, I'm going into full grind mode—head down, focus up. I want to learn as much as I possibly can."

A recipe for lifelong success

For prospective students considering their own journey at BHMS, Spandana offers both honesty and encouragement: "When you first get here, it's going to be challenging. Some days will be harder than others, but trust yourself, because it will click. You're given the chance here to be who you are and who you want to be. Go up to people, talk to them, be unafraid, and trust that you belong here."

Spandana's three-year journey at BHMS demonstrates how the right educational environment can transform passion into profession. Through comprehensive culinary training, leadership opportunities, cultural immersion, and real-world internships, she has developed into a well-rounded professional ready to excel in the global culinary landscape. Her story shows that BHMS provides not just culinary education, but a complete life experience that prepares graduates for success in every aspect of their professional journey. With its blend of hands-on learning, entrepreneurial focus, and supportive international community, BHMS continues to craft the next generation of culinary leaders—one passionate student at a time.