At the heart of its mission to cultivate global leaders, Florida State University’s Dedman College of Hospitality has invited Peter B. Kim to join the College as a visiting professor sharing his extensive knowledge and experience in the hotel and hospitality industry.
Originally from South Korea, Kim brings a lifetime of international experience to the university as he engages with students through guest lectures and mentorship opportunities, emphasizing the leadership principles essential for success in the hospitality industry.
Before joining academia, Kim held prominent management roles at renowned hotel chains such as Park Hyatt, Sofitel, Marriott and Westin. His extensive industry experience, coupled with his academic contributions in New Zealand, including his role as co-leader of the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative Research Team, positions him as a tremendous asset to the college.
How did you become involved in the hospitality industry?
My journey in the hospitality industry began in South Korea during my early 20s as a valet parker at a hotel where I quickly fell in love with the field. I enjoyed meeting new people and serving them, which led me to explore various roles, transitioning from valet to driver, doorman, bellman, restaurant room service and front office manager, consistently working my way up. Each role taught me valuable lessons, from the importance of first impressions to the intricacies of guest satisfaction, laying a solid foundation for my career. My passion for hospitality was ignited by my father whose career in an international hotel exposed me to the industry’s dynamic energy at an early age. Inspired by this, I pursued a career in hospitality, earning a master’s degree in hospitality management from Ohio State University and a doctorate in hospitality and tourism management from Virginia Tech.
How did your experience in various roles shape your understanding of the hospitality industry?
Working in various positions within the hospitality industry taught me invaluable lessons about people skills, emotional and cultural intelligence, and the importance of understanding and respecting others. My love for meeting new people and hearing their stories made me well-suited for this field, allowing me to interact with various backgrounds and nurture empathy. Each role from valet to front manager provided unique insights into industry operations and customer service dynamics which I now emphasize to my students, sharing real-world experiences and practical knowledge to prepare them for successful careers in hospitality.
What have you enjoyed about working with students at FSU, and what key messages do you emphasize to them?
I have found the students at FSU to be incredibly determined, inspired and motivated. They respect others and have a genuine passion for the hospitality industry as well as a great respect for their professors. This respect and pride in their college make them stand out compared to students in other institutions. They have the right attitude toward their major, which is essential for their success.
I always share my personal experiences with them and emphasize the importance of loving their job. I encourage students to take pride in their work as the hospitality industry is about helping, caring for and respecting others. By sharing my journey and the lessons I’ve learned, I aim to inspire students to pursue their careers with enthusiasm and dedication, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and rewards of the hospitality industry.
What opportunities are available in the hospitality industry for FSU students?
The hospitality industry has become incredibly global, offering amazing opportunities for students. International hotel chains often have special programs that allow employees to rotate and move to different locations, and general managers and executive managers are frequently asked to work in various countries. Working in international hotels exposes individuals to different cultures and provides numerous perks such as hotel stays, tickets, training opportunities and exchange programs. Students majoring in hospitality management have the chance to travel and work around the world, gaining valuable experiences and broadening their perspectives. These global opportunities not only enhance their professional skills but also enrich their personal growth, making them more adaptable and competitive in the global job market.
How do you use your past experiences to enhance your teaching and prepare students for the workforce?
My journey in the hospitality industry has been rich with experiences that I love sharing with my students. I believe it is important to find a healthy balance for students between hearing real-life stories and learning from textbook information. Nowadays, they have access to a lot of useful information on platforms like YouTube, but what they often miss are real-life stories and lessons — so, I always share my personal stories in the classroom and relate them to relevant concepts or theories. This approach helps me connect with students and makes the learning process more engaging. As a professor, my role isn’t just to provide information. My experiences in the hospitality industry allow me to communicate effectively with students who aspire to develop their careers in this field. I believe that my stories and experiences help them understand the practical aspects of the industry and inspire them to pursue their goals with passion.