Meet Hotel Management student Sanju Pariyar, who is working her way up the ladder to pursue her dreams. After leaving Kopila Valley, she went on to do amazing things. In conversation with her, we found out more about her passion. 

Hi Sanju! What are you doing and where are you right now?

I am in Dang, a small city in Nepal, studying Hotel Management. I am also looking for internships that I could do in my spare time. 

What does being a woman in Hotel Management mean to you?

The word that comes to my mind is ‘Future’. For many women in Hotel Management, it can mean facing unique challenges and opportunities. Women may have to navigate gender biases and stereotypes in a male-dominated industry, which can make it more difficult to advance in their careers. 

At the same time, being a woman in Hotel Management can also bring a fresh perspective and unique insights to the table. Women may be more attuned to the needs and preferences of female guests, and may be able to bring a more collaborative and empathetic approach to leadership. 

What’s your favorite thing about Hotel Management?

Hotel Management is an exciting and dynamic field. I enjoy the fast-paced and ever-changing nature of Hotel Management, as well as the opportunity to work with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. What someone enjoys about Hotel Management will depend on their personal interests and strengths, as well as the specific aspects of the job they find most fulfilling. When it comes to me, learning to harness leadership skills has to be my favorite part of my studies. 

Since you mentioned ‘Leadership,’ is opening your own restaurant something you want to do in the future?

You just read my mind! Yes! I have been given a lifetime’s opportunity to grow myself and be a change-maker.  I was born in a remote village in the Himalayas called Oda. And my one big dream is to open a restaurant there and provide jobs and services in any way I can. 

What do you find yourself doing in your spare time these days?

Definitely listening to music. These days I have been  watching a lot of movies; this sort of is a different world that I can escape to when I feel like it. And I am always surrounded by my friends. I have my childhood friends here who are also doing Hotel Management.  It never gets boring. 

Knowing what you know about your life and your future, what would you say to your 15- year- old- self?

I would say, “Don’t let anything regret you in the future!” (She laughs) ”Not that I have anything to regret.” (She laughs again)  “Maybe I would say that to my future self!”

What inspires you in life?

In this 21st Century, it might be shocking to many but I am the first generation of  my family to be educated. The thought of me changing that fate is powerfully inspiring. 

What do you look forward to in life?

I look forward to the day when I am no longer just a Hotel Management Student but a  strong career woman pursuing her dreams. I also look forward to changing the fates of many young girls and boys by creating opportunities. 

Finally, is there anything you want to say to younger generations with aspirations and ambitions?

I would say, remember that your dreams and aspirations are valid and worth pursuing. It’s also important to know that success is not always a straight line, and there may be setbacks and challenges along the way. However, these experiences can help you grow and make you more resilient. 

We are thrilled to have one of our very own Kopila Valley School graduates write this guest blogger series and share alumni stories! Anjali Karki graduated in 2019 and is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism along with a journalism career. We can’t wait to see what each of these world-changers does next. Follow us on social media with the series hashtag (#NarrateYourKopilaStory) for more about these young adults and their adventures.