Back 28.03.2025 Campus life

From Laos to Lucerne: Natcha's Culinary Journey at BHMS

In the heart of picturesque Lucerne, where Swiss precision meets culinary artistry, first-year BA Culinary Arts student “Natcha - Kounlanat Nanthavong” is crafting her future one dish at a time. Hailing from Laos, Natcha represents a new generation of international culinary talents finding their home at BHMS, where passion for food transforms into professional expertise.

What I like most about studying at BHMS is the professional experience that prepares me for future employment.

A world of opportunity in the heart of Switzerland

"I chose BHMS over other universities because of its prominence and reputation in hotel management and business," Natcha explains with enthusiasm. Her decision to study at BHMS wasn't just about following a passion for cooking—it was a strategic career move backed by the institution's renowned standing in the culinary world.

For Natcha, location was another significant factor. "BHMS gives me the opportunity to study in the center of Lucerne, Switzerland, which is a beautiful city with a thriving hotel industry." Living in Lucerne provides her with daily inspiration, where she embraces the local culture while exploring new perspectives through her camera lens—one of her favorite pastimes alongside discovering the hidden gems of this charming Swiss city.

The practical teaching approach combined with real-world internship opportunities helps me develop skills that make me confident in applying them in my professional career.

Culinary arts at BHMS: Where passion meets professionalism

The BA in Culinary Arts at BHMS is designed to transform a love for food into a fulfilling career by combining culinary expertise with entrepreneurial know-how. Students like Natcha can choose between two specialized pathways—Culinary Arts or Pastry, Chocolate, and Bakery.

What makes this program exceptional is its comprehensive approach to culinary education. Students gain hands-on experience in seven state-of-the-art kitchens under the guidance of experienced chefs, mastering everything from fundamental knife skills to advanced techniques in ingredient pairing and chocolate tempering.

"What I like most about studying at BHMS is the professional experience that prepares me for future employment," Natcha shares. “The practical teaching approach combined with real-world internship opportunities helps me develop skills that make me confident in applying them in my professional career.”

BHMS offers guaranteed paid internships which helps me gain valuable experience while studying.

Beyond the classroom: Internships that cultivate excellence

One of BHMS's most valuable offerings is its guaranteed paid internship program, which Natcha highlights as a critical component of her education. “BHMS offers guaranteed paid internships which helps me gain valuable experience while studying.”

The culinary program includes three internships throughout the course of study, strategically designed to equip students with expertise and proficiency required to excel in the world's finest dining establishments. Through these placements, students learn essential soft skills including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving—all while navigating the fast-paced world of professional kitchens.

"This combination helps build necessary skills and real experience, preparing you for successful work in the hospitality and business industries," Natcha explains, reflecting on the advice she would give to other students considering BHMS.

BHMS has an extensive network in the industry that provides good career opportunities after graduation.

A supportive community for lifelong success

Beyond technical skills, Natcha values the nurturing environment and extensive professional network that BHMS provides. "The encouraging environment and personal attention from faculty and staff make my learning experience even more valuable," she notes, adding that "BHMS has an extensive network in the industry that provides good career opportunities after graduation." This well-established network connects students with top employers from family-run Swiss restaurants to five-star hotels worldwide.

"Studying at BHMS allows you to earn dual degrees—one from BHMS and another from Robert Gordon University in UK—giving you globally recognized qualifications," Natcha explains. “This adds international value to my education and makes BHMS the best choice for my educational and career development.”

A recipe for success

As Natcha continues her culinary journey at BHMS, she embodies the spirit of international students who come to Lucerne not just to learn cooking techniques, but to transform their passion into profession. Through her camera lens and her culinary creations, she's discovering herself while preparing for a future filled with global opportunities.

For students considering following in her footsteps, Natcha offers this perspective: “Beyond academics, you'll experience Switzerland's rich culture, build relationships with students from around the world, challenge yourself, grow personally and professionally, and open doors to international work opportunities.”

With passion for culinary arts and dedication to learning, Natcha is creating her own path to success—one that began with the choice to study Culinary Arts at BHMS.