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Beyond borders for Nicolas De Vallois, an IBBA student
Feb 24, 2023 -
Nicolas De Vallois, a 20-year-old student in his third year of the IBBA program at Ferrières, is completing a six-month internship in South Africa, in the Drakensberg. Having lived abroad with his family in Canada, Spain, and the Czech Republic, Nicolas is now exploring a continent he has only recently begun to discover. A year ago, the young globe-trotter heard about a partnership between his school and Esiweni Lodge, a boutique hotel in the Relais & Châteaux group. Eager to enhance his professional experience abroad, he seized the opportunity and took on the role of assistant manager in the heart of one of the world’s largest canyons.
1. Had you already had any professional experience abroad before coming to South Africa?
Apart from living abroad throughout my childhood, this is the first time I’ve worked abroad.
2. Are the employees local or Western?
The entire team is from South Africa and Zimbabwe. I am the only European apart from the French couple who bought the establishment in 2014.
3. Based on your recent observations in your position, what are the differences between managing a French team and a foreign team?
Coming from one of the best hotel schools in France, attention to detail was ingrained in me. Upon arriving here, I noticed that attention to detail was not part of the local habits. One of my daily challenges is to insist on this fact. The differences are mainly cultural. It must be understood that in Africa, things sometimes take more time. This is teaching me to adapt and become more patient in a position that requires excellence and rigor. Ultimately, this experience is pushing me to develop my resilience.
4. Does this experience abroad sometimes change the way you see things?
This internship allows me to interact with people from very different socio-cultural backgrounds. I have always enjoyed cultural diversity. But above all, I am really becoming aware of how lucky I am to be studying in this way. The opportunities and chances are not the same for everyone.
5. How does this experience take you out of your comfort zone?
I step out of my comfort zone every day. It must be understood that behind the idyllic picture of this magical place, we live cut off from the world, in a bubble for weeks on end. This requires great inner strength to keep going. I love interacting with clients and fortunately, I thrive on these exchanges. Overall, all clients are happy to be there and delighted to meet a young Frenchman on site. I also have an anecdote that comes to mind. At the age of 20, I had to give “marital advice” to a couple in crisis!
6. Do you think living abroad is necessary to understand and master hospitality jobs?
This profession is a service-oriented job, so yes, it is absolutely necessary to go abroad to better understand the expectations of others, especially if we do not share the same culture or way of life. Learning to know people in their differences helps to better understand human beings in general. It is necessary to be even more tolerant to always show kindness, especially in the hospitality industry.
7. Has this experience awakened in you the ambition for new projects?
This experience allows me to define my professional project more concretely. I now know that I do not see myself working in a hotel so isolated from the rest of the world. I love the luxury and 5-star service aspect, but in a context where social ties and interactions with the outside world are more developed.
Testimonials
All around the world, our Alumni share what Ferrières has brought to their journey: strong skills, an audacious vision, and above all, an unforgettable human adventure. Their testimonials embody what it means to learn, to dare, and to grow in a school like no other.
What makes Ferrières different is its proximity and support. Whether it's a teacher or a principal, everyone is there when you need them. You're never alone when facing difficulties: you're supported and guided toward solutions.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
Arriving just as the school was celebrating its second anniversary, I spent the entire Bachelor's program with them. Three wonderful years punctuated by encounters, experiences, and professional development. Not everything is perfect, but the teams work every day to get closer to it.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
The Ferrières School was a real favorite. The teachers share their passion and experience, which adds real value to the course. Thanks to the PAP, professional integration is facilitated, with real support throughout the program.
L.,
Diplomeo Review
Great experience within the School, I appreciate the Masterclasses that we can benefit from thanks to the intervention of professionals in gastronomy and hospitality.
C.,
Diplomeo Review
I chose to enter Ferrières in September 2018 for my first year of my Bachelor's degree. The supervision is effective and the ecosystem allows us to become professionals in the various restaurants and accommodation services, which is very enriching for our future in this vast sector.
S.,
Diplomeo Review
Ferrières is a real adventure, marked by three years of encounters, laughter, and learning. I thought I'd have to change, but the school simply pushes us to grow. My advice: be yourself, have fun, and give your best—here, personal excellence is the norm.
L.,
Diplomeo Review
What can I say about Ferrières? After three years at this splendid school, I realize how far I've come. I found much more than friends there: a true family. The teaching allowed me to improve, but also to mature. Ferrières, I will miss you.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
A truly enriching experience, marked by wonderful encounters, both personal and professional. Wonderful events were also organized at the château, making the journey even more memorable.
C.,
Diplomeo Review
The Ferrières School is a real opportunity thanks to its unique positioning in the luxury sector. In addition to quality teaching, it offers access to prestigious events in Paris and at the château, while allowing students to concretely plan their future careers.
L.,
Diplomeo Review
I don't regret choosing Ferrières: I thrive here and learn alongside passionate professionals. The school offers real opportunities, like the Career Summit and masterclasses. The administration is attentive, and student life, driven by the Student Union, is very dynamic.
L.,
Diplomeo Review
As a student at Ferrières, I highly recommend this school to anyone looking to further their education in hospitality, gastronomy, and luxury. The courses are enriching, the immersion in the ecosystem is invaluable, and I'm proud to be a part of it.
A.,
Diplomeo Review
The Ferrières School has allowed me to gain skills, maturity, and rigor. Thanks to the quality of the courses and the instructors, I feel ready for the professional world. Studying at such a prestigious institution is a real opportunity.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
As a Master's student, I recommend this school to those who want to fully invest themselves and learn alongside professionals to grow, both personally and professionally.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
I don't regret my choice: the courses live up to the school's prestige, and I'm proud to be part of the Ferrières adventure. Discovering the restaurant and gastronomy professions is both ambitious and exciting.
A.,
Diplomeo Review
After two years in Ferrières, I am completely satisfied with my choice. The training is comprehensive, the setting is ideal, and the internships at the Meliá Paris La Défense and the St. Regis Bora Bora were very enriching.
A.,
Diplomeo Review
An ambitious experience that I don't regret. A gateway to a promising career! A school unlike any other in the world.
M.,
Diplomeo Review
The Ferrières School is ideal for developing skills in luxury hospitality and gastronomy. I highly recommend it!
L.,
Diplomeo Review
I'm enjoying my experience at Ferrières, which is supported by an ideal setting and passionate teachers. The school, young and growing, offers a solid network for joining major institutions in France and abroad.
E.,
Diplomeo Review
Having been a student at Ferrières for three years, I can say that it's a school of life that has taught me a lot, both professionally and personally. The professors are all experienced professionals. I don't regret my choice.
C.,
Diplomeo Review