Moving across the world for your studies is a big step. To give prospective students a realistic impression of what it’s like to study the Master’s in Leading Hotel Transformation at Hotelschool The Hague, we spoke with Lukas Biermann about his experience. In this Q&A, he shares what stood out to him during his journey at HTH.
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Lukas Biermann. I am originally from Detroit, Michigan, but I was born in Frankfurt, Germany.
How would you describe your overall student experience at Hotelschool The Hague?
My experience at Hotelschool The Hague has been absolutely wonderful, so far. From the very start I was welcomed with open arms and found that I was among individuals just like me.
The coordinator master programmes, Caroline Shelfhout, was instrumental in the orientation process and continues to be the backbone of student support for us master's students.
I also got involved beyond the classroom and became part of the recruitment team, which gave me the chance to connect with prospective students and share my experience.
Alongside my studies and student job, I also got the opportunity to speak on stage at the HTNG Connect conference and be a Master of Ceremonies at EuroCHRIE 2025. Those experiences gave me a real sense of the community at both campuses.
'' From the start I was welcome with open arms''
How did you experience the teaching and learning style at Hotelschool The Hague, especially compared to your previous studies in the United States?
The teaching and learning style at Hotelschool The Hague has been refreshing compared to the format of my previous education. I did my bachelor's degree at the School of Hospitality Business at Michigan State and am incredibly grateful for the experience I had there.
However, I love the small classroom set-up of the Master’s at Hotelschool The Hague and the Socratic nature of the courses. The classes have required me to really think critically and be creative, which are skills I am hoping to sharpen while I’m there.
In addition to this, faculty consists of leading academics and industry professionals that tailor the curriculum to support our learning.
My favourite course so far has been Digital Developments, taught by Robert Collignon, director at Deloitte Digital. Through his extensive industry insights, he challenged us to explore the implications of artificial intelligence in hospitality.
“He challenged us to explore the implications of artificial intelligence in hospitality.”
Would you recommend moving to the Netherlands for students considering building a long-term career in Europe?
I would absolutely recommend studying in the Netherlands for students looking to build a long-term career in Europe. That was exactly my motivation for coming to Hotelschool The Hague, as I speak German as well and therefore am looking at potentially staying here for the foreseeable future.
Studying here gives you a good starting point if you want to build a career in Europe or beyond. The school is internationally renowned in the world.
How did you find the housing market in the Netherlands, and what kind of support did you receive from the school?
The housing market in Amsterdam can be challenging , but the school supported me by recommending platforms such as The Social Hub, where I was able to secure a room for the full duration of my studies.
Most students opt for shared housing, which is generally more affordable. Renting your own apartment usually comes with a higher price tag, especially compared to East Lansing, Michigan, where I lived during my bachelor’s and paid under €1000 a month.
Still, Amsterdam’s energy and vibrancy make it a fantastic and worthwhile place to live.
What advice would you give to prospective students who are considering studying one of the postgraduate programmes?
The advice I would give to prospective students is just to jump in and do it. Students in our class range in age from 22 to 36 and come from countries all over the world. These are individuals who are looking to strengthen their hospitality skills and gain more industry insights.
I have not talked to a single student who regrets doing the Master’s. It’s an intensive year, but a manageable time commitment.
I think coming to Hotelschool The Hague will continue to be one of the most important things I have ever done for my professional and personal life. I am loving every second.
“Just jump in and do it. I haven’t met a single student who regrets it.”
