For Gerasimos Fessian, the practical focus of QMU’s BA (Hons) International Hospitality and Tourism Management degree provided a strong foundation for his professional development. Graduating in 2026 after studying with one of QMU’s collaborative partner institutions, Metropolitan College in Patras, Gerasimos valued the opportunity to gain a UK-accredited degree while studying closer to home and developing skills that could be applied beyond the classroom. Since graduating, he has continued his academic studies while drawing on his degree in his work across local government, accessibility, regional development and tourism.
Why did you choose to study with one of QMU's collaborative partner institutions, and what attracted you to the course?
I chose this collaborative partner because it offered me the chance to earn a UK-accredited degree without moving abroad straight away. That gave me both financial flexibility and confidence that the programme adheres to British academic standards. As for the course itself, what really drew me in was its practical focus – it wasn’t just theory for the sake of it, but you could see how the content applies in real-world contexts. Access to QMU’s online library and resources, which are normally available only to students in the UK, was also a major factor.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
What I enjoyed most was the interaction with the lecturers and the overall ethos that there’s no such thing as a “silly” question. I felt the course was designed to make you think critically, not just memorise facts. I also really appreciated that assessments weren’t purely exam-based - they included projects, presentations and case studies. That made me feel like I was preparing for a career, not just for an exam paper.
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting?
Definitely. I particularly enjoyed the group case studies, where we had to analyse a real-life scenario and develop solutions within a set timeframe. The interactive lectures with live polls and real-time questions were also great because you could immediately see how others were thinking. On top of that, one assignment involved interviewing an industry professional - that was genuinely eye-opening and felt like my first real step into the professional world.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this course?
My advice would be not to treat it as just a piece of paper to tick a box. See it as a chance to build a mindset. Read beyond the syllabus - explore articles, videos and research that relate to the subject. And don't hesitate to ask your lecturers questions; most of them really appreciate curiosity. Most importantly, stay on top of your assignments from day one, because the material builds up faster than you expect.
What's your' top tip' for making the most of being a student, and what was the most valuable lesson you learned?
My top tip is don’t limit yourself to the lecture hall. Get to know people from different backgrounds, join societies, take part in events - the more you step out of your comfort zone, the more you’ll grow. The single most valuable lesson I learned was that a bad grade or a setback doesn’t define you - what matters is how you respond, how you adjust and how you keep moving forward. I learned to see challenges as part of the journey, not as a final verdict on my ability.
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation?
My life after graduation has developed along three complementary axes, which clearly demonstrate that this degree was the starting point for a dynamic trajectory, rather than a final destination.
Firstly, on an academic level, completing my undergraduate programme sparked an enduring desire for deeper specialisation. Consequently, I have already made arrangements to commence a Master’s degree imminently, as I firmly believe that higher education is a cornerstone of my personal and professional identity.
Secondly, on a professional level, completing my studies acted as a catalyst for my immediate advancement to the highest echelons of Local Government. As an executive at the Central Union of Municipalities of Greece (KEDE) and a Member of the National Accessibility Authority, I draw daily on the analytical and strategic skills I have acquired. These skills enable me to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and make a substantive contribution to policymaking on local governance, social cohesion, and citizens' rights.
Thirdly, on a political level, the knowledge I gained proved invaluable during my tenure as a Regional Councillor for Western Greece. Now holding the positions of Vice-President of the Regional Committee and Deputy Secretary of the Tourism Sector for a parliamentary political party, I see first-hand that academic training is not a luxury, but an essential tool for the substantive exercise of politics – particularly in critical areas such as regional development and tourism. My degree, therefore, marked the dawn of a multifaceted journey, where learning, administration, and political engagement harmoniously coexist in the service of the public interest.
