A Graduate’s Journey and Lessons for the Future
Gabriel Chausino, 26, is from Las Pintadas, Tunuyán. After completing a Housekeeping course funded by The Vines Foundation through the Escuela de Oficios de Tunuyán, his search for employment took him thousands of miles from home to a hotel in Croatia.
We spoke with Gabriel about his experience and what could help future students move more successfully from training into employment.
What motivated you to enroll in the Housekeeping course?
I wanted to learn new skills and gain tools that could help me find work in the hospitality industry. The course gave me an introduction to hotel operations and helped me feel better prepared to pursue opportunities in the field.
How did you find your current position, and how has your training helped you?
A recruiting agency contacted me about an opportunity in Croatia. After interviewing with the agency and the hotel, I was selected and began the visa process.
I now work in the hotel’s Public Areas department, maintaining the shared spaces used by guests. Some of the responsibilities were familiar from my training, which helped me understand the standards expected in a hotel environment.
I am also continuing to learn, particularly how to use professional cleaning equipment and other specialized tools. Every hotel operates differently, so learning continues once you begin working.
Based on your experience, what would help future students prepare for employment?
I would recommend more hands-on practice and more experience using professional equipment. Stronger connections between the courses and employers could also help graduates learn about and access job opportunities.
Language skills are important as well, particularly in hospitality. Knowing another language can broaden the opportunities available.
Gabriel’s journey is a powerful example of what can happen when training, individual determination, and opportunity come together. His experience also reinforces an important lesson: preparing someone for employment requires more than technical instruction alone.
As The Vines Foundation develops future programs, feedback from graduates like Gabriel will help us incorporate more practical training, workplace preparation, language development, and employer engagement – giving students a stronger foundation for wherever their careers may take them.
