Delfina's story shows how training, commitment and the right opportunities can lead to a rewarding career in the hospitality industry.
Her career with THB hotels began in 2023 when she joined the THB College Dual Vocational Training programme in Food & Beverage. With no previous experience in hospitality, she found an opportunity to learn from scratch, gain hands-on experience and discover an industry that would soon become her passion.
Today, we’re at the THB Cala Lliteras hotel in Cala Ratjada, to hear Delfina talk about her experience at THB College and her transition from student to professional at the hotel, where she now works as maître.
How did you first hear about the THB College?
“I came to Mallorca looking for work, and during my search I came across the opportunity to train in hospitality at the THB College. It immediately caught my attention because they were looking for young people who were eager to learn and progress, so I immediately decided to enrol.”
What were you looking for at the time? What made you choose a Dual Vocational Training Programme?
“At the time, I was interested in specialising in a specific area, acquiring knowledge and growing both professionally and personally. I opted for a Dual Vocational Training course because it guaranteed learning from scratch with the support of professionals. I also love travelling, and I could see lots of opportunities in a hotel group with properties in a wide range of destinations.”
How do you think that learning in a real hotel makes a difference?
“I’d say that learning in a real hotel makes a huge difference, because you’re involved in the day-to-day operations right from the start. You get a first-hand insight into what the job involves, dealing with customers, the overall organisation and teamwork.”
What was the most valuable thing you learnt during the Dual Vocational Training Programme?
“I learned so much. I had absolutely no knowledge or experience of the hospitality industry when I joined, but I’d particularly highlight all those aspects related to customer service, organisation, teamwork, and work protocols.”
How did your colleagues and managers support you during the programme?
“They were a tremendous support, both on a professional and personal level. Having people around you who encourage you and believe in you even when you doubt yourself is absolutely essential during the learning process. My colleagues and managers didn't just teach me specific tasks; they also showed me how to deal with new situations, organise my work and solve everyday challenges. Their support made the whole process much easier and helped me build my confidence step by step, while making me feel like a valued member of the team.”
How important is it to combine classroom learning with hands-on work experience?
“For me, it's essential because it allows you to put into practice in a real environment the knowledge you acquire in the classroom. Learning the theory is one thing, but dealing with real situations in a business, where there are unexpected challenges, deadlines and responsibilities, is completely different. Combining both helps you understand what you're learning and consolidate that knowledge in a much more practical way.”
Do you think that the Dual Vocational Training Programme really prepared you for the workplace?
“Definitely. The Dual Vocational Training programme prepared me extremely well for the workplace. When I moved from being a student to becoming part of the team, I realised I already had a solid foundation of knowledge and practical experience. I felt ready and pretty confident in my role.”
You are currently a member of the team at the THB Cala Lliteras. What do you like best about your work?
“What I enjoy most is looking after our guests, supporting and managing the team, and knowing that I'm learning something new every day.”
Do you feel that THB hotels invests in young talent?
“Yes, I do. I truly feel that THB hotels believes in young talent by providing genuine opportunities for learning, development and career progression.”
What would you say to someone considering taking up a Dual Vocational Training Programme?
“I'd encourage them to make the most of the opportunity because it's a very complete programme that opens doors both professionally and personally. The Dual Vocational Training Programme allows you to learn while you work, which makes everything you study much more meaningful because you're applying it in a real working environment. It also helps you gain experience, confidence, and responsibility from day one, all of which are incredibly valuable when starting your career.”
What’s special about working in hospitality?
“Working in the hotel industry helps you grow enormously. It broadens your perspective and allows you to develop both professionally and personally.”
What does being part of THB hotels mean to you today?
“Today, being part of THB hotels means pride, personal growth and satisfaction with everything I've achieved so far, as well as excitement about continuing to learn and discover even more.”
Stories like Delfina's are exactly what THB College is all about. An opportunity to learn in a real hotel environment, developing alongside experienced hospitality professionals and turning education into genuine career opportunities.
Check out her interview on our Instagram.