Michelin-starred restaurant, spa-like pool, and professional butlers—sounds like the amenities of a five-star hotel. But it’s all part of the student experience at EHL Hospitality Business School in Switzerland. Ranked the world’s top hospitality school, EHL takes a hands-on approach to shaping future industry leaders.
So, what makes EHL stand out? It starts with a unique blend of practical experience and academic rigor. “True to our roots, EHL’s approach combines experiential learning with a strong emphasis on both hard and soft skills,” said Dr. Achim Schmitt, dean of EHL. From the start, students are immersed in real-world roles, ensuring they learn by doing.
First-year students embark on a “preparatory year,” rotating through various operational positions, like managing the front desk or working in food and beverage. The year is designed to teach everything from guest interaction to leadership. “We start cultivating communication, empathy, and leadership skills right from the beginning,” said Schmitt. The focus is on developing the soft skills vital to success in hospitality—skills that can’t be taught in a textbook.
EHL’s Lausanne campus takes learning beyond the classroom. Spanning about 20 acres, the eco-certified campus is a hub for hospitality innovation. “Students designed the campus for students,” Schmitt explained. Its world-class facilities include a Michelin-starred restaurant where students work alongside top chefs, gaining real industry insight. With a student body representing 125 nationalities, it’s a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and experiences—an essential aspect of learning in such a globalized field.
While hospitality often brings to mind hotels and restaurants, the skills students gain at EHL are transferable across industries. “Hospitality comes from the Latin word ‘hospes,’ meaning visitor,” Schmitt said, reminding us that hospitality is about creating exceptional, personalized experiences in any setting, whether luxury retail or high-end consulting. EHL’s broad approach prepares students for leadership in various service-oriented careers.
Beyond the classroom, students must complete two internships, work on collaborative projects, and even consult with real clients. These opportunities allow them to apply their skills in the field, giving them a competitive edge by graduation. “We ensure our students are prepared to excel in any service-oriented business,” Schmitt noted, emphasizing the school’s commitment to real-world application.
What truly sets EHL apart is its forward-thinking approach. The school continuously adapts to the evolving demands of the hospitality industry, ensuring its students are prepared for today’s challenges and ready to lead in shaping the future. By the time students leave EHL, they’re more than capable of excelling in any role—and equipped to redefine the industry itself.
