On January 7, 2025, the Faculty of Business Administration at Foreign Trade University, in collaboration with its training partner CitySmart Hospitality Management (CHM) International Academy, successfully organized the Red-Letter Day – Practical Skills Evaluation for students of the CLC Hospitality Management Program – Cohort 62. The event took place at CHM International Academy.
Distinguished Guests and Industry Experts
The event was honored to welcome representatives from CHM International Academy:
- Ms. Vũ Thị Thảo – Director
- Ms. Hoàng Thị Tuyết Mai – Deputy Director
- Ms. Chu Dương Tuyền – Academic Director
Representatives from the hospitality industry included:
- Ms. Đặng Triệu Diệu Linh – Human Resources Manager, Hilton Garden Inn Hanoi
- Ms. Nguyễn Ngọc Anh – Learning & Development Manager, Capella Hanoi
From Foreign Trade University:
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lê Thị Thu Thủy – Chairwoman of the University Council
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vũ Thị Hiền – Vice President
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lê Thái Phong – Dean, Faculty of Business Administration
- Dr. Nguyễn Thúy Anh – Vice Dean, Faculty of Business Administration
- Dr. Bùi Thu Hiền – Vice Dean, Faculty of Business Administration
- MSc. Vũ Phương Lan – Vice Dean, Faculty of International Education
- MSc. Tô Thùy Trang – Program Management Board, CTTT-CLC & International Programs
along with esteemed faculty members and students from the CLC Hospitality Management Program.
A Milestone in Hospitality Training
The hospitality industry demands a high level of practical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a comprehensive understanding of service excellence. To prepare students for their professional internships, the CLC Hospitality Management students of Cohort 62 have undergone intensive training in core hospitality operations, including:
- Customer Service Management
- Front Office Management
- Restaurant & Bar Service Management
- Housekeeping Management
This practical skills evaluation served as a key milestone, assessing students’ readiness in terms of attitude, expertise, and hands-on competencies. It was also an opportunity for students to express their gratitude to their dedicated professors who have guided them through their journey in Hospitality Management at Foreign Trade University.
Showcasing Vietnamese Culinary Heritage with a Modern Twist
With the theme “Flavors of Tết”, this year’s Red-Letter Day not only celebrated students’ achievements but also elevated traditional Vietnamese cuisine through modern service styles and engaging storytelling. The event was brought to life by the dynamic hosting of two MCs and the seamless coordination of the CLC Hospitality Management K62 team.
During the event, students transformed into hospitality professionals in a five-star international restaurant setting, undertaking roles such as:
- Table Service Staff
- Food Runners
- Bartenders
- Guest Relations Officers
Each dish was meticulously presented as a work of art, showcasing Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage. The menu featured regional delicacies such as:
- Trám ỏm (Fermented Canarium fruit – Phú Thọ)
- Lạc hoa mèo (Northwestern-style peanut dish)
- Đậu phụ Làng Kênh tẩm hành (Spring onion-infused tofu – Thái Bình)
- Chả rươi Tứ Kỳ (Tứ Kỳ ragworm sausage – Hải Dương)
- Nộm nhút chân gà Đông Tảo kèm bánh đa Đô Lương (Pickled jackfruit salad with Đông Tảo chicken feet and Đô Lương rice crackers – Nghệ An)
A standout moment of the event was the “surprise service” performance, featuring the “Nơm Opening Technique” for the signature dish – Longan and Lotus Seed Soup (Hưng Yên). This breathtaking display of hospitality artistry received enthusiastic applause from faculty and guests.
Dressed in professional hospitality uniforms, students exemplified excellence in service, teamwork, and guest engagement, immersing attendees in an unforgettable Vietnamese culinary journey. Their proactive approach, creativity, and professionalism successfully highlighted Vietnamese culture through a modern hospitality lens.
A Transformative Experience for Future Hoteliers
The Red-Letter Day practical evaluation was an invaluable experience, marking a significant step in the students’ journey to becoming future hospitality leaders. The rigorous training they have undertaken has laid a strong foundation for their career aspirations in the hospitality industry.
This event not only strengthened students’ professional skills but also instilled in them a deep sense of pride in Vietnam’s hospitality and culinary heritage. It was a memorable milestone, celebrating their growth, dedication, and passion for the industry.