Thi Yein Soe @ Kevin is a passionate traveller and considers himself a “people person” who enjoys traveling the world and being in the company of friends, colleagues and family members. Originally from Myanmar, Kevin has been studying and working abroad since 2014. He began his academic journey with Sunway College in 2015 and upon completing the Foundation in Arts programme, Kevin decided to pursue a degree in BSc (Hons) in International Hospitality Management at Sunway University’s School of Hospitality and Service Management. Through hard work and perseverance, Kevin also earned the ASEAN scholarship.

Being an international student at Sunway University has encouraged Kevin in his academic pursuits as well as his personal life. The well-established School of Hospitality & Service Management has provided tremendous opportunities for talent and skills development. Kevin was also part of the Sunway Music Society, where the students successfully organised fundraising events. Kevin recalled that his most profound moments were representing Sunway University and Malaysia at The Asian Federation of Exhibition and Convention Associations (AFECA) Asia MICE Youth Challenge in 2017 (Taiwan) and 2018 (South Korea) along with his team members.

The well-equipped training facilities supportive lecturers and academic staff helped improve his interpersonal skills, leadership skills as well as developed many other skills. Diverse cultures and a progressive learning environment in Sunway prepared Kevin to participate in a diverse workforce especially in the hospitality industry. Through his active curricular and co-curricular involvement, Kevin discovered many new cultures and developed friendships with many individuals from different parts of the world, preparing him for his current role as a Guest Service Associate / Departmental Trainer at Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, Marriott International.

Being a first-class honours graduate from Sunway University has enabled Kevin to earn a spot in one of the most reputable five-star hotel chains in the world, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. After graduation, Kevin joined the Sheraton chain in Dubai, working as Guest Service Associate. Recently, his career opportunities grew and he was promoted to Departmental Trainer where he provides training on technical know-how in the areas of Front Office and Guest Service Operations. The on-the-job training attained during the internship affirmed Kevin’s choice of career in the hospitality industry.

The passion, knowledge and training attained from Sunway has enabled Kevin to become an exemplary employee. He was selected as the employee of the month and Top Guest Service Associate of the year based on guests’ feedback and survey, which subsequently led to a promotion as Department Trainer. Despite the COVID-19 outbreak, Kevin’s role requires significant adjustments to the “new normal” procedures and the lack of a physical workforce. He lives by this quote: “If you feel helpless, help others”. By helping others, new sets of skills could be developed, and new connections and opportunities would surface too.

On a final note, Kevin encourages all aspiring youths to embrace challenges and welcome opportunities as there are avenues to learn new skills and knowledge. To Kevin, Sunway University has been a ‘home away from home, providing exceptional and excellent academic advancements to personal growth and career development.