Nick Veanes
Diploma of Hospitality Management
Twenty-four year-old Vivek Khetarpal, who already has a Bachelor in Computing Science, is one of the fifty four international students who have completed Commercial Cookery, a key component in the Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management. Vivek excelled in his studies and has attained high marks in all twenty units of the course.
Vivek was born in Panipat, an Indian city renowned for exporting rugs and carpets. Panipat is known as the ‘City of Weaver’ or ‘City of Handloom’ in the state of Haryana, about ninety kilometres north of Delhi.
Vivek’s native language is Hindi and he comes from a relatively small family. His father, Prem, works as a senior supervisor for National Fertiliser Limited, and his mother, Shobha has a position at the Bank of Baroda. Vivek has a younger brother who is currently studying for his degree in computer engineering.
Vivek feels that hospitality could be in his blood. His paternal grandfather Nandlal, a caterer, loves to cook and entertain. He fully supported Vivek’s decision to pursue studies in hospitality management at Swinburne.
Prior to enrolling, Vivek had tried his hand at running his own business. His father provided most of the financial backing and Vivek had a factory with fourteen machines manufacturing rugs and carpets. He ‘broke even’ with his business, but had problems with cash flow.
Vivek viewed Australia as a country of opportunities, and a key to his future. He thoroughly enjoys his hands-on learning experience in Commercial Cookery, and the course has provided him with an outlet for creativity. He likes making people happy through food and hospitality.
Vivek also looks forward to the other units the course has to offer – such as human resources management, business development and marketing, which could provide him with transferable skills. His goal is to have his own restaurant someday, and to generate an income to provide for his parents and reciprocate the support that they have given him.
“Swinburne is value for money – the learning facilities are great. I have been provided with extensive support and assistance from all the staff including the course convenor and especially my teachers. I have enjoyed my learning experience so far and learnt a great deal.”
