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TIO CHAT / SEMESTER SPECIAL 1 2021/2022

A look back at the first semester

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TIO CHAT / SEMESTER SPECIAL 1 2021/2022

CONTENTS

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An athletic introduction at great height

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Inspirational kick-off for first-year students

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Tio has the best studies for 11 years - Higher Education Guide

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Tio Lympics; an athletic success

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Hotel and Event Week

And: 06 10 38 48 55

Internships at top companies MBA students kick off the academic year Project Weeks Study trips Always fun with Cognatio

Publishing details The Tio Chat is a publication of Tio University of Applied Sciences. It is publised for Tio students, parents and staff.

Address: Tio University of Applied Sciences St. Jacobsstraat 400 3511 BT Utrecht, The Netherlands

TIO CHAT / SEMESTER SPECIAL 1 2021/2022

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COLUMN

A look back at the first semester Internships with top-tier companies, an introductory trip to the Belgian Ardennes, enthusiastic students during the Tio Lympics and StayOkay hostels that were transformed into 4-star hotels during the Project Week. These are just a few of the fun and educational activities that took place during the first semester.

Whether it’s a masterclass from Tommy Schouren (tour manager for Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike) or a day of guest lectures from Yacht Recruitment, at Tio we place a high value on practical education.

One example of this is the project weeks in which students roll up their sleeves and get to work.

During the Sales Week, for instance, students learn debate skills, first-year Law students get to tackle a real criminal case and Tourism students take part in a 5-day boot camp organised by Corendon.

The Master of Business Administration is new at Tio this year. Turn to pages 34 and 37 to find out how students Alexander and Tycho feel about the decision to continue their studies after earning a Bachelor's degree. The students view this as a truly enriching experience.

And as the cherry on top, our Bachelor programmes were awarded top honours by the Higher Education Guide 2022 – making this the 11th year in a row.

Our vocational study programmes in Hotel Management and Commercial Business Management were additionally named best in their fields by the Vocational Education Guide 2022.

And as an educational institution, Tio University of Applied Sciences has received the predicate ‘Excellent in its field’. We should all share pride in this achievement!

I hope that each of you feels the same satisfaction I do when looking back at the first semester.

And I hope you enjoy reading this Tio Chat! • Katinka Reuling, Managing director

Follow @hogeschooltio on Instagram to keep up with the latest news from Tio.

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introduc

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JUNE - JULY - AUGUST

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Internships at top companies From internships in real estate and the gaming industry, to the social media department of Grolsch; Tio students secure a wide range of internships at top companies! Below are just some photos and a video from last summer. •

Bram iness Management Bus Commercial Vacancy management, Ad Hoc

Max t International Business Managemen d goe nd oere Onr ssen Jan le Real estate, Nico

Anouk ics and Entrepreneurship nom Commerce Eco Social Media Marketing, Grolsch

Celine neurship Commerce Economics and Entrepre Google Analytics, Grolsch

JUNE - JULY - AUGUST

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Thomas iness Management Bus cial Commer Account management, We Have A Plan

Julius nt Management Eve and el Hot Real estate, Brandt

Dylan nt Management Eve Hotel and Event, Coca Cola

Watch the video

Rogier ics and Entrepreneurship nom Commerce Eco E-commerce, G-star

Read the interview

Pieter Bas ics and Entrepreneurship nom Eco Commerce Marketing, Nintendo

AUGUST

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It was a great day!

Sophia, Hotel Management student

An athletic introduction at great height New students get to know each other in the Belgian Ardennes Before the start of the academic year, the next generation of students had an introduction day in the Belgian Ardennes.

Although the introduction usually lasts for several days, it was a one-day corona-proof event this year.

From across the country students from Tio's various campuses got on the buses that would take them to their final destination: the quarry! There, they received a 'warm' welcome with some water balloons from student association L.S.V. Cognatio.

Buffel Outdoor had organised a variety of athletic activities in the Ardennes: from archery and a hexathlon to abseiling and climbing. Afterwards, the students got to enjoy a delicious barbecue. Seated at long tables, they got the chance to get to know their fellow students a bit better.

Former Tio student and resident DJ Joris Geurtsen was there to provide the evening's musical entertainment.

Excellent reception and a great atmosphere from the start. Everyone started chatting as soon as they got on the bus. It was a sportive and diverse day.

The fun barbecue and the great music were the cherry on top of the cake!

Sebastiaan, Hotel and Event Management student

I even managed to overcome some of my fear of heights today!

Lars, Hotel Management student

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I am looking forward to my time at Tio. Floor, Law student

It's all a lot of fun and I am definitely interested in joining Cognatio. I am eagerly looking forward to the many activities during my studies!

Bram, Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship student

It has been a really nice experience. I was a bit worried because I didn’t know anyone. But this trip gave me the opportunity to make new friends. It has been a good start for my future education at Tio. Bedirhan, international student from Turkey (International Business Management)

AUGUST

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MBA students kick off the academic year Tio's Master of Business Administration students could not have wished for a better start of the new academic year: physical lectures on campus and an inspirational two-day kick-off. The students began the new academic year with a masterclass from Holland Casino CEO Erwin van Lambaart.

What are their expectations for the day? “Practical information about this year,” says student Alex. Ibrahim is eager to learn more about Tio's culture. Myrthe: “I want to meet my fellow students!”

Masterclass from Erwin van Lambaart – CEO Holland Casino Erwin van Lambaart discusses Holland Casino's strategy and offers the students some unique insights into his company's (online) plans. He also presents a case the students can get to work on right away: assess the scope of the Dutch leisure sector, determine where best to open two new Holland Casino branches and come up with a new product, service or experience that will draw people to Holland Casino.

Brainstorms and drinks “After dinner, we kept working on the case until ten o’clock,” says student Kelvin. “Then it was time to have some drinks with our fellow students because we also want to get to know each other better.” After a fun evening, it was time: on Tuesday morning, the teams presented their ideas to the jury. “We felt confident about our pitch, but were also impressed by what the other

groups had come up with,” student Rizki says after the pitches. “All students are highly driven. This has a strong motivational effect!”

The world is your oyster “It was a lot of fun to meet these next-generation talents.

We are impressed by the students’ ambition and drive,” says Erwin once the judges have reached a verdict.

“That's why we have selected not one winner, but two.

These two groups stood out with their excellent research and novel ideas.”

The winners can choose between a free dinner at one of Holland Casino's branches or a VIP seat in Holland Casino's private skybox in the ArenA. Erwin offers the students some parting advice: “Make the most of the year ahead. When you put in the work, the world is your oyster. Keep it up and don't forget to enjoy yourselves as well!” •

We have only known each other for two days, but the collaboration went very well. We did not expect to win because every group had come up with excellent ideas.

Winners group 1

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We went the extra mile. That was the key to our success. It feels fantastic. This was a promising start to the academic year!

Winners group 3

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A warm welcome to our new students

Amsterdam After collecting the Tio hoodies, the students immediately go on a puzzle tour through Amsterdam on the first day.

Great to be able to welcome students again live at the campuses. The teams of Tio: staff, lecturers and students love to welcome our new students in person.

And the nice weather enables the customary drinks to be offered on the square.

International Business Management student DJ Justyn really livens up the party. And the singing talents of students Lars (Hotel Management) and Milan (Hotel and Event Management) do not go unnoticed. In other words, a flying start to the academic year for these new students!

The students arrive slightly anxious and reserved, however unbridled enthusiasm quickly takes the upper hand. During the Welcome Days, serious topics such as the campus guide, Presto and more, are interspersed with cheerful activities. •

The second day starts with rapping from Boom Chicago cabaret artist Rob Andristplourde. With the escape room, pop quiz and other games, the first-year students already show what they have to offer in terms of creative thinking.

Utrecht The ambience is already good right from the start for the new students at Tio Utrecht. When they arrive, they enthusiastically greet each other.

Many of the students have already met each other in the Ardennes. This day is primarily devoted to getting to know each other and Tio. During the second Welcome Day, the first-year students are introduced to experienced Tio students and Tio alumni who passionately tell them about their studies at the Tio University of Applied Sciences and about what the new students can expect during their studies. After a delicious lunch, it is time for a boat trip through the canals: the sun is shining and it is the perfect way to get acquainted with the city of Utrecht. The day is concluded with drinks organised

by Cognatio. The students get to know each other better over drinks, and the first friendships are forged.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER

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Eindhoven In Eindhoven, there is always plenty of time for fun! At the Oranje-Rood Hockey Club, the members of ‘Heren 1’ give a clinic. The tropical temperatures make everyone leave the pitch thirsty. Upon returning to the campus, the baton is passed to Cognatio Eindhoven who takes the students in groups for a treasure hunt through the city.

This is concluded with drinks and a barbecue at Stratumseind, where most people stay until the early hours of the morning.

You cannot wish for a better start to the academic year!

Groningen A quiet welcome is not planned for the students in Groningen. Cognatio enthusiastically takes the students on a boat trip around the canals of the city.

During the exclusive visit to the Rooftop Merckt (which was not yet open), the students hear about how the company is started during the corona crisis, whilst admiring the spectacular view of the Grote Markt.

Of course, if you really want to discover Groningen, then you have to visit the pride of the north: FC Groningen! The inspiring days provide the students with a lot of enjoyment and motivation.

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Rotterdam After the info sessions about the Student web and the distribution of Tio hoodies, the Rotterdam City Game starts. Armed with a tablet, eight teams trudge through the city, looking for key locations in Rotterdam. The students like the interactive aspect: “By challenging other teams you could gain extra points. It was very enjoyable, you get to know each other and the city better.”

In the George cocktail bar, the students learn how to prepare a perfect mojito and punch. Of course, without alcohol. “The perfect balance between sweet and sour: that is what it is all about. And hit the mint leaves, do not squeeze them.” The students hit and mix to their heart’s content. And then taste each other’s concoctions with total abandon.

The day was concluded with a drink and a hilarious pub quiz led by quizmaster Guus.

The typical Rotterdam evergreen ‘You never walk alone’ was sung at the top of their voices to the winning team.

The nicest comment afterwards: “Great day, I really feel at home here.”

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Hengelo After the serious part, there is also time for relaxation in Hengelo. At lunch, the hot dogs are extremely popular. In the afternoon, second-year student Gijs organises a beertasting with beers from Wentersch in Winterswijk.

The next day, the Cognatio student association organises the ‘I love Holland’ TV quiz, in which the students participated with a great deal of enthusiasm. This is followed by a barbecue, organised by colleague Awee ter Horst. After these fun events, the students are more than ready for the highlight of the day: a trip into town with Cognatio!

Exchange students From France, Spain, Russia, Austria, Norway, Germany and Italy: the new exchange students attend the Welcome Days to optimally start their exchange period and the academic year at Tio! During the reception, the exchange students are welcomed with typical Dutch treats such as liquorice and syrup waffles.

In the afternoon, the sun starts to shine just in time. The distributed Tio hoodies can be put back into the bags, because in this fine weather, they are able to explore the canals of Utrecht in a large dinghy. It is the ideal way to become acquainted with the city and each other whilst partaking in a snack and drink.

After such a beginning, the exchange period cannot go wrong!

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER

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An unforgettable trip to Dubai

By: Sophie de Weerdt Former student Tio

About eighteen months ago, 25 students received an e-mail titled ‘Congratulations!’. Nice, but what did this mean? It quickly became evident that this e-mail, sent early on a Monday morning, contained very welcome news: we were in the group of 25 best students at Tio, and could therefore participate in an amazing trip to Dubai! However, the year of corona would cause this trip to be postponed several times. In this case, postponement did not result in cancellation, on 28th August everything went ahead! The best students (at this time, mostly the 25 best graduated students) made their way to Schiphol airport where they embarked on a fantastic adventure.

Only highlights The programme transported us from one highlight to the next: from a dining cruise across the Dubai Creek, to indoor skiing in the longest indoor ski run in the world, from a visit to the largest shopping mall in the Emirates, to a phenomenal view from the highest tower that exists.

Dubai is a location of extremes: from the very first day, we grew accustomed to hearing terms such as ‘the longest’, ‘the highest’, or ‘the biggest’.

Across the desert The trip was full of memorable experiences: for example, sliding down the highest white-water ride, or a visit to the old souk, and of course, the unforgettable adventure in the desert. At the end of the last day, five large jeeps transported us from a country full of skyscrapers to the extensive desert landscape one-and-a-half hours drive away. As real modern-day desert nomads, we jumped onto quads and raced through the sand. Shortly afterwards, it was time for another tour full of exhilaration and sensation: dune bashing. Our guides deflated the tyres of the jeeps, programmed a suitable Spotify playlist with loud music, and we sped across the desert crossing high sand dunes at

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER

high speed. Moreover, we saw a spectacular sunset, and certainly took photos of this. We concluded the trip with a delicious dinner in a nomad camp and departed for the airport shortly afterwards with desert sand still in our shoes.

1001 wonderful memories Once back in the Netherlands, it felt like we had been away for five weeks instead of five days. We have all benefited from a great trip, 1001 wonderful memories, and 24 new friends. •

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SEPTEMBER

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Chris Zegers Travel expert

You face all kinds of expectations and if you're not careful, you will start to conform to those expectations.

Don't be blind to the things you find on your path.

Inspirational kick-off for first-year students!

On Thursday 1 September, convention centre De Reehorst welcomes all excited first-year students. Twelve professionals are there as guest speakers to inspire the students with interesting stories about their field of expertise. From travel expert Chris Zegers to Holland Casino CEO Erwin van Lambaart and from Secretary of the Year Vivian Veldman to hospitality professional Milo Berlijn. Let the year begin!

“Today was very interesting and educational,” says Executive Office Management student Isa after the kick-off. “When you listen to the stories told by the guest speakers, you begin to see the field of practice and your own future from a different perspective.” Armed with a wealth of new knowledge and inspiration, the students are ready to go.

The work of a lawyer with Merle Rondhuis Merle Rondhuis talks to the new students of the Law programme about her job as a company lawyer at Witteveen+Bos. Together, they discuss a real-life case. This gives the students a better picture of what it is like to work as a lawyer. Merle: “As a company lawyer, it is your job to translate substantive legal documents into practical advice.”

Student Maurits is excited after the lecture: “The work of a company lawyer is far more diverse than I previously thought.”

Parastoe Koshai about the hard world of sales

This can be a difficult and tough world, so be sure to find a coach and let them show you the ropes.

Marco Groot about success Marco Groot is the founder of 8 Days A Week and previously has worked for Tomorrowland and Tony’s Chocolonely. He is here today to tell the students of Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship all about the value of money and success.

When are you rich and when are you successful? Are they simply two sides of the same coin? Student Leanne: “The session was really surprising and interactive.” •

Erwin van Lambaart CEO Holland Casino

Everyone is born with multiple talents. With the help of your lecturers, colleagues and fellow students, you have to discover where your talent lies.

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Jorij Abraham Successful entrepreneur

Milo Berlijn Hospitality professional

Do not get annoyed, but focus on the good things instead.

Be optimistic and positive.

Always keep a smile on your face and have fun. The hospitality sector is amazing!

Vivian VeldmanErlemeyer Secretary of the year

By taking care of small tasks, you give someone else peace of mind and make it easier for them to do their job.

You can learn a lot from someone who has been there already. Never stop learning!

Sjoerd Weikamp about (online) events

Invest in your network.

Build relationships with people in the industry. Find your future partners and start today.

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Grand Prix Watch these Tio students shine during the Grand Prix in Zandvoort! •

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Tio has the best studies for 11 years - Higher Education Guide This year marks the eleventh time in a row that the study programmes of Tio University of Applied Sciences are selected as best in class by the Higher Education Guide 2022; several of Tio's programmes receive top marks in the latest edition of the Guide.

Small-scale and personal Tio is known for its small-scale and personal education. For years, Tio has been claiming the number one position with its study programmes. This year, the Higher Education Guide 2022 selected Tio's Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship, International Business Management, Hotel and Event Management and International Tourism Management programmes as the best.

“Excellent” hallmark The Higher Education Guide reveals that the students of Tio are highly satisfied with their chosen institution and that they often perform above average, compared to their peers from other schools. As a result, Tio is the proud recipient of the “excellent in this field” hallmark.

Katinka Reuling, managing director at Tio: “The quality of our education and the satisfaction of our students are incredibly important to us at Tio. We are therefore more than proud to see these two aspects mentioned in particular in this year's Higher Education Guide. We view it as a major compliment that our students are so satisfied and are given so much room to excel that we have been awarded the “excellent in this field” hallmark. We were thrilled to see our study programmes selected as best in class for the eleventh time in a row, this truly is the cherry on top. We could not have wished for a better start to the new academic year.” •

At each campus syrup waffles are distributed to celebrate the success!

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Eight gold medals for Tio in EW Best Studies 2021 survey In total, Tio University of Applied Sciences earned sixteen medals in Elsevier's study choice survey EW Best Studies. Tio's campuses brought home eight gold medals, three silver medals and six bronze medals. Tio's programmes International Business Management, International Tourism Management, Hotel and Event Management and Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship all won gold medals.

Assessment of the Best Studies This year's EW Best Studies survey compares 2,182 study programmes to help secondary-education students choose the right study. The results are based on the National Student Survey that 330,000 students took part in. The study programmes are rated on eleven aspects that are important when choosing a study. Among the aspects taken into consideration are the contents of the programme, the available study facilities, examination and assessment and atmosphere. To receive a gold medal, a study programme must score considerably higher than the average of the entire sector on eight or more of these aspects.

Myriad medals for Tio With sixteen medals, Tio is the rightful winner of the EW Best Studies 2021 survey. Tio's programme International Business Management won gold three times; the campuses in Amsterdam, Eindhoven and Hengelo all received a gold medal. The other gold medals were won by the International Tourism Management programme in Eindhoven and Hengelo, Hotel and Event Management in Hengelo and Utrecht and Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship in Utrecht.

Satisfied students across the board Students indicate that they are satisfied with every aspect of their studies. The gold medal not only means that they are happy with the contents of the programme and the atmosphere on campus, but also that students are being well prepared to enter the employment market and that they would choose the same programme again as a first-year student if they had to go back.

Katinka Reuling, managing director at Tio University: “After the amazing results from the Higher Education Guide, we are now thrilled to receive no fewer than eight gold medals in the EW Best Studies survey. This is a wonderful acknowledgement of the hard work we do to take our education to the next level. We are constantly looking for new ways to further improve the quality of our education for current and future students alike. To have our efforts acknowledged like this not only makes us proud, but also gets us even more excited about the academic year to come.” •

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Business visit Theory comes to live during business visits at Hotel Okura and Hotel Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam.

On 26th October, students Hotel and Event Management and Hotel Management for the class Technical Restaurant Skills made a business visit to Hotel Okura Amsterdam. A pleasant introduction to the Japanese culture in the centre of Amsterdam. The students got a tour by several departments, hotel rooms, restaurants and the bar. The students asked a lot of questions and became even more enthusiastic about the reason for choosing their programme.

The visit was concluded with a delicious lunch. •

Never expected to be welcomed like this, great!

What a fantastic hotel: later, I would like to work here.

Students Hotel and Event Management visit Hotel Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam for their class Technical Hotel Skills.

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Tio Lympics; an athletic success!

During the second edition of the Tio Lympics in the Olympic Stadium, Tio students from the different campuses competed against each other in a series of athletic events.

I competed last time as well and that was a lot of fun! That is why I decided to sign up again this year.

I am in a team together with students from a different campus, whom I got to know while working on a joint Tio project.

Sven, Hotel and Event Management student

The Tio Lympics were officially opened by Martijn Naberman, campus manager at Tio Amsterdam. While running with a torch in his hand along the athletics track, he lit the Olympic Flame. This marked the beginning of a sportive day! During four different rounds, Tio students were challenged to push themselves to their limits. The events ranged from volleyball to athletics and concluded with a tug of war.

The Tio Lympics are a great event and I love seeing students from different study programmes and study years work together as a team.

Maurice Krabbenborg, campus manager Tio Hengelo

The students competed fiercely to win that coveted Tio Lympics trophy. Everyone agreed on one thing: team Cognatio - winners of the previous edition of the Tio Lympics - had to be defeated. Former Olympic athlete Marianne Timmer announced the winning team during the award ceremony. Although the teams were evenly matched, Team 1 from Tio Amsterdam ultimately emerged victorious. This successful day of athletic competition concluded with drinks on the patio. •

INTERVIEW

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How are things now for

‘Best university searches for best student’ winner Laudine was the winner of the ‘Best University searches for Best Student’ contest. Her prize was a comprehensive study package at Tio University. This semester, she started her bachelor programme in Hotel and Event Management at Tio Amsterdam. How is Laudine doing?

Friends for life “I really love it here at Tio”, explains Laudine enthusiastically. “It already started with the introduction day in the Ardennes. From the very first day, I have become acquainted with a very nice group of friends.

I never expected that I could build up a relationship so quickly with my fellow students. We have full days, but by having lunch together and having fun together, we get through the days very well!”

Happy about my choice “I particularly like the combination of practice and theory.

Everything you learn theoretically, you implement in practice. For example: how you walk with a tray, and always serve from the right. But you also learn other practical skills. For example, how you chair a meeting, the best way to take notes, and how you build up a network.

The studies are very varied and comprehensive. This also includes an economic part during the Market Analysis course. Extremely interesting because entrepreneurship is part of me.”

Knowledge immediately put into practice “The Project Week was held in November. During the Hotel and Event Week, I was one of the general managers. We could immediately put the knowledge acquired during the past weeks into practice.

Subconsciously, I learnt a lot during this week. The collaboration between the various departments was crucial. The front office had to be kept informed about everything, and the lines of communication with the housekeeping and the restaurant were short. What I really liked about this was that I had the opportunity to get to know many fellow students from the other campuses.”

Implementing a childhood dream “My grandfather has always been my source of inspiration. He also attended a hotel school. I always liked to listen to his stories. My dream is to become a hotel manager.”

However, Laudine does not yet want to predict exactly what the future has in store for her. “At the moment, I am thinking of taking a master’s degree in hospitality after I have completed my bachelor studies. During my internship period, I would also like to gain experience abroad. Perhaps at a resort in Curaçao.” •

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HotelloTOP on Tour On 20 October, the first HotelloTOP on Tour was held at Tio Amsterdam. Five Tio students from Hotel and Event Management gave a pitch focused on convincing the public. Indy received the most votes! On behalf of the Tio University, he will compete for the ‘Talent of the Year Award’ •

MBA students visit Johan Cruijff ArenA By: Alexander de Jong Master of Business Administration student

The winners of the Master of Business Administration kick-off received their prize last November: an excellent lunch in the skybox of Holland Casino in the Johan Cruijff ArenA. After a snack and a drink, the students were given a guided tour of the football temple where Ajax regularly plays amazing football and creates furore in Europe.

The changing rooms, the players’ tunnel, and of course, the turf, were discussed. •

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Guest lecture day in Eindhoven On Wednesday 17th November, the guest lecture day was held in Eindhoven. The common thread for this day: young professionals, entrepreneurs and crisis management.

‘Pursuit Femmes’, Angélique van Gils The fourth generation Van Gils started two years ago with a concept for made-to-measure suits for women.

Following the opening of a store in Antwerp, the second shop recently opened, and plans also exist for locations in the Netherlands and Luxembourg. What are the challenges faced by a start-up? A positive and inspiring story about challenges, tackling these challenges, and successes.

Yacht Recruitment, Tio Alumna Robin Veneberg Sometimes, after completing your Tio studies, you do not know where you want to work. This is the time to attend a traineeship at Yacht Recruitment where you will work with various employers. This enables you to better understand what the most suitable option for you is ultimately. After receiving training at a professional and personal level, you become a future-proof professional.

SeRamo, Rabobank, Hans van de Ven In times like these, although some companies are thriving, other companies find themselves in dire straits. How can you, as a bank on the one hand, but also as a supporter on the other hand, help companies to survive the crisis. By performing analyses, making smart choices, and implementing temporary measures, companies can be helped and bankruptcies can be prevented. •

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Students discuss their views What is going well at Tio and what could be improved?

We hear the answer to this question at the meetings of the student representatives. Student representatives from all campuses state their opinions about all kinds of issues: ranging from healthier sandwiches in the canteen, to the set up of room 006, and from paying at the coffee machine, to more wall sockets in the classrooms. •

Groningen

Hengelo

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I am very happy that our ideas are listened to and taken seriously, and that something is done about the points for improvement.

Larissa, International Tourism Management student

Rotterdam

Amsterdam

Utrecht

It is very nice to hear that other students sometimes encounter the same issues as our group.

Nice to be able to interact with each other.

Sille, Hotel and Event Management student

Eindhoven

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INTERVIEW

Working and getting your master’s degree: Alexander is doing it Master of Business Administration (MBA) student Alexander is really dedicated in heart and soul to the Tio University of Applied Sciences. He attended the bachelor programme in Hotel and Event Management, met his girlfriend there, gained his diploma, started work, and now combines his job with his fulltime MBA studies at the Tio University. “I can recommend this to anyone!”

Practical way of working Alexander already tried various other studies before studying at Tio. Just when he was ready to start work, he heard about Hotel and Event Management at Tio Amsterdam, and this turned out to be the perfect match: “The practical way of working really appealed to me.

Moreover, you are not just a number here, and you are always listened to.”

Motivated in class Although Alexander always liked to attend parties, he ensured that he was on time for class every morning.

“Simply because I was motivated,” he explains enthusiastically. “Many people do not believe me, but from the moment that I started at Tio, I no longer felt like I was studying every single day.” He explains, laughing: “And certainly not since I met my girlfriend at Tio, during a wine study class.”

Combining career with MBA Armed with his recently-awarded Hotel and Event Management degree, Alexander was offered a job with his internship organisation ChipSoft, a company that automates care processes. “I work here as a marketing and communications advisor, and mainly focus on the

digital data exchange and our international positioning.

Because I would like to further augment and optimise my knowledge, I now combine my job with the MBA, and devote two-and-a-half days to each of them during the week. The classes are during the week and I mainly study in the evenings and weekends.”

A challenging and worthwhile combination, according to Alexander: “During the master, you learn to approach issues strategically. During my work, I can directly implement what I learn in these classes, for example, by making processes more efficient. Moreover, my work experience also enables me to understand the theory more easily, and to optimally implement this in practice.

Gaining relevant work experience during your master, is something I can recommend to everyone!”

Career advancement and motivating others And what are Alexander’s plans after the MBA? “I attend this master so that I can optimise my personal qualities, and this will also help me to advance my career. Ultimately, I would like to manage and motivate people; encourage them to also optimise their personal qualities.” Wonderful plans, where Tio is eager to make its contribution! •

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Tommy confirmed my decision to change career paths.

Tom, student

Passionate masterclass from Tommy Schouren On 18 November, a masterclass with Tommy Schouren was organised for all students at Tio Amsterdam.

Tommy Schouren was previously the production manager for Afrojack, and is now the tour manager for Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike. In addition, he started his own company, PANOUT. This company specialises in tour and artist management, distribution, technology, production management and much more.

Tommy had lots of funny stories, we learned a lot of new jargon!

Merlijn, student

Sufficient reason to inspire the Tio students! Hotel and Event Management student Lauren was so inspired that her initial reaction was “where can I sign up?”, and then also contacted Tommy with a request for an internship. •

This was a realistic presentation of the world of a tour manager. It was an eye opener!

Bente, student

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Roses, togas and champagne at the graduation ceremony in Rotterdam Hooray! It’s time to celebrate. The new Hotel and Event Management graduates are receiving some well-deserved praise. Bart Kuijpers, Campus Manager at Tio Rotterdam, says this group of students are "hard workers".

The top student of this year, Anouk, is such a hard worker. Anouk moved up from vocational education to the second year of the bachelor Hotel and Event Management, accelerated the speed of her studies, and completed her bachelor’s degree with a 7.7. However, she is not finished yet. She is now busy with her Master of Business Administration. She feels fantastic: “It was hard work. We were a group of five students. Laughing together, studying late together. But it was worth it.”

After the warm welcome from Bart, the ceremony took place. The students were each awarded their diplomas and roses.

Smiling, proud parents Back in the auditorium, the champagne was ready!

Smiling parents simply could not take enough photos of the successful students. The students are happy that they complete their studies with a valuable diploma. They recollected the nice times and memories, especially in relation to the vinology course.

Taking a group photo proved to be difficult. Should the tassel on the cap hang down on the left-hand side or the right-hand side? Bart helped the students find the answer.

Left-hand side before receiving the degree, right-hand side when you have officially graduated. “Parents, carers, everyone ready with their cameras?” Three, two, one… and then the caps are thrown into the air! •

INTERVIEW

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From mbo to MBA at a rapid pace Read Tycho’s story

The difference is only in one letter, however the step and the advancement are enormous. Tycho went from an O to an A. He started with an mbo programme (vocational education), and currently attends the 1-year Master of Business Administration at Tio University of Applied Sciences. “The small classes at Tio enable more focus on teaching, thus saving a great deal of time. In mainstream education, this would have taken twice as long.”

Mbo Hotel Management in 2 years Finding optimal subsequent education that matched his previous education was not an easy task for Tycho.

After looking on the internet and attending an open day, he decided to enrol for Hotel Management at Tio, at the Amsterdam campus. “A major advantage was that I could immediately start at mbo level 4. In mainstream education, I would first have to do mbo level 3. The fasttrack programme enabled me to complete my vocational programme in two years.”

Transforming a StayOkay hostel into a hotel Tio is noted for its challenging, hands-on approach to education. The eyes of Tycho light up when he explains the Hotel and Event Week. With his fellow students, he had to transform a StayOkay hostel into a fullyfunctioning 4-star hotel. “I worked on the front office and was responsible for the arrangement of the rooms and more. Together with my fellow students, I arranged the sponsoring, furnished the restaurant, and composed the menu.”

Tio encourages students to continue their studies The fast-track programme saves students time. “Tio provided me with a lot of incentive to climb higher up the studies ladder. It quickly became evident to me that I should enrol for the Hotel and Event Management bachelor programme. Just like mbo, I could save time.

Because I was fast-tracked, I received a number of exemptions for certain courses. By once again studying at a fast pace, I completed the programme in three years.”

Internships at home and abroad He is proud to talk about his international internship in Australia. Tycho secured an internship for his mbo as well as for his bachelor. “I lived in Sydney for six months and worked at an events agency. This company organises auctions for charities. In addition to learning English, I also learned to be independent. I went there all by myself, without knowing anybody there. I combined this fantastic work period with a wonderful tour of the country.”

The great ambience has a beneficial effect on teaching The transition from mbo to bachelor occurred seamlessly, so I was enthusiastic to enrol for the Master of Business Administration. Another deciding factor for Tycho, was the optimal environment at the school. “More specifically, the great understanding between lecturers and students.

This ambience motivated me to continue. The small classes enhance the teaching. I toyed with the idea of a gap year after my bachelor, but corona put paid to this idea. Moreover, Tio offers an MBA with a curriculum that appeals to me. It is a further expansion and elaboration of a number of subjects from my bachelor, but also includes new courses such as Strategic Management, Business Intelligence and International Entrepreneurship and Innovation.” •

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NOVEMBER - DECEMBER

Project Weeks

Put theory into practice!

During the Project Weeks, Tio students rolled up their sleeves! Students from the various fields of study got to work for employers such as Bijenkorf and Corendon, transformed StayOkay hostels into luxurious hotels, or went on a study trip. A week that was completely devoted to the practical aspects.

E-commerce Week

Enhance customer loyalty This year, the employer for the E-commerce Week is Bijenkorf. Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship students were working on a challenging case: how can we integrate more experience in the customer journey in order to achieve enhanced customer loyalty?

Full of enthusiasm, the students started working on the assignment. An online guest lecture from Bijenkorf took place on Tuesday. The great deal of hard work performed was evident on the exciting final day. The original concepts meant that the jury had to make tough decisions.

Drum roll, the winning team is team 7: The ‘Hommels’ (Bumblebees)! Benjamin Terzibasiyan, Country Manager for Bijenkorf in Germany and Austria: “This team has thought long and hard about who Bijenkorf is. They have really considered every last detail.”

We are so impressed by this idea, that we will discuss it internally and investigate whether we can actually implement it.

We have conceived the ultimate customer journey for the blind and partially-sighted. This is a hearing experience, where they have the same experience as sighted people.

Sophie, student in the winning team

Benjamin Terzibasiyan, Bijenkorf

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER

Finance Week

Start-ups engage Tio students Business students dive into the financing of various start-ups during Finance Week. They get to take a look behind the scenes and examine the financial management of start-ups, gather relevant information and develop an investor pitch deck which they ultimately present to the jury.

Getting to work In teams, the students get to work immediately: they call their start-up to make an appointment, plan the company visit and do preliminary research. The two-minute pitch has to be ready by Thursday. Who will be able to win over the jury?

The winner This year, the final day is held online. On Friday morning, the jury – Heerd Jan Hoogeveen (Start-up Utrecht) and Simone van Slooten (Humanity at work) – will announce the top three. The three nominated teams get one more chance to win over the jury. After a number of critical questions are asked, the jury will deliberate. Exciting!

Team 4 from Tio Amsterdam won first prize and a whopping €500 cash.

We are really very happy with this. It’s really great that we won!

The winning students’ first reaction

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NOVEMBER - DECEMBER

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Sales Week

Learning how to debate During the Sales Week, students attended various training courses under the supervision of professionals, in order to expand their sales knowledge. They attended a total of three training courses dedicated to pitching, sales and marketing techniques, and debating.

A successful first day!

Keimpe, Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship student

You can really implement this in the future!

Nils, Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship student, proud winner during the final day that focused on marketing techniques

I really enjoyed it, and it was really something new.

Mirthe, Commerce Economics and Entrepreneurship student during the ‘Call to Action’ pitch training

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Tourism Business Innovation Week Students at work for Corendon

In five days, the students have to think up a creative solution for the following case: Come up with a new ancillary product for Corendon. Ancillary products are the extras you can book with a trip, such as additional luggage or booking a parking space at the airport in advance.

A better customer experience Mike Booijen, Customer Experience & Ancillaries Manager, suggests looking at these extras with an innovative eye. What else is possible? “Today’s students have an active attitude to life and look at these issues in a completely different way. I look forward to seeing what new and inspiring services or products they come up with”.

The winners The winning idea came from team 2. They came up with a ‘baby bag’: a bag with goodies and gadgets for people travelling with children, especially young ones, which would make travelling a lot easier and more fun.

We are so happy and surprised to have won this assignment! It is great to see our idea come to life. Knowing that one day this can be booked as a service on Corendon’s website is a great feeling! We are very happy and proud of the result, and we would like to thank the jury and our supervising lecturers very much!

On behalf of team 2, Jolien

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER

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Hotel and Event Week

Your own hotel for a whole week First- and second-year students from the Hotel and Event Management, Hotel Management and Financial Business Management programmes, had a difficult assignment during the project week: running a hotel for a week. The students had to do everything themselves: kitchen, restaurant, housekeeping, entertainment, PR, sponsoring and finances. Every part of the hotel is managed by the students.

It is also a social event, because you collaborate with students from other campuses.

Nerea, exchange student

StayOkay Noordwijk The New Wave Name Theme Charity

80s!

The Aids Fund

Everyone starts to find their own place, and it runs like clockwork. It is a very nice ambience.

Roos, PR Manager

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Nice, informative and special. At the end of this week, we will all be well acquainted with each other.

Shamira, General Manager

StayOkay Haarlem Name

Royal Hawaiian

Theme

Tropical Luxury

Charity

Haarlem Food Bank

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Due to the adapted measures, we had to be creative.

We therefore had the idea of drinks boxes. It was a great success!

Dylan, General Manager

StayOkay Arnhem Hotel Goldstrike Name A Touch of Gold Theme Charity

During the project week I really learned to become a manager.

Everything now runs perfectly!

Max, Restaurant Manager

De Speelstoet (Play Parade)

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For us as students, this is a wonderful experience that is made possible by Tio. Bente & Jacky, PR Managers

StayOkay Apeldoorn Name

Woodz

Theme

Natural enjoyment

Charity

Melief Foundation

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interna

nal

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NOVEMBER - DECEMBER

Warsaw neurship Commerce Economics and Entrepre

Study trips

The world at your feet During a study trip, Tio students visit (top) companies. To learn from experts in the field, to perform case studies, and to become better acquainted with the international work area.

From Prague to Lisbon: Tio students are all over Europe. Moreover, several tourism students have planned their study trip themselves from a to z and can also implement it themselves.

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER

Prague Hotel and Event Management

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Krakow ess) Receptionist ard( Stew Host(ess)

Berlin t International Business Managemen

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER

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Berlin s Administration ines Bus of ter Mas

Watch the fantastic video about the study trip to Berlin

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Lisbon

Plan your study trip yourself Students in International Tourism Management plan their own trip and implement it themselves. A week of indulging in culture abroad! •

Helsinki and Tallinn

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Naples

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Riga

Budapest

Bari

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On the eve of exams In December, exams were once again just around the corner – which meant it was time for students to buckle down and study again. •

Always fun with Cognatio!

By: Pauline Hommes National PR & Promotion L.S.V. Cognatio L.S.V. Cognatio is the student association of Tio University of Applied Sciences. Six campus committees and an umbrella national committee organise the coolest parties for you!

The academic year commenced with the introduction day in the Belgian Ardennes, where you got to know new students. Shortly after this, we organised a beach party for you with the coolest acts.

At the end of November, we also organised a boat party with the best DJs and even a saxophone player. In addition, the campus committees organised great gettogethers, ranging from pub evenings to bowling and laser games.

We hope that we will also be able to organise more mega cool parties for you this year! •

On behalf of Tio University of Applied Sciences, we wish you a warm and festive – or relaxing – holiday season! Watch the video.