It wasn’t clear from the outset that her path would lead her into the hospitality industry. After a year studying French, the now 20-year-old initially spent half a year gaining experience in care work. Several work placements in hotels and the catering industry eventually convinced her to pursue a career in the sector. It’s a decision she doesn’t regret.
“Every day is different; every guest has different wishes and needs. I really like that,” says Annina Schneider. During her training, she got to know the different departments at the Kursaal Bern – from the linen room and the kitchen to reception and the various catering outlets. For her, this variety was what made her training so appealing. “I really enjoyed being able to take on lots of tasks that I found enjoyable, such as working in service at the Rooftop Grill.”
There was one downside to the training, however: she had to give up her hobby, boxing. Training sessions and irregular working hours were simply incompatible. Since then, she’s been doing weight training.
She’ll continue to have irregular working hours in future. She’ll then be working at the reception of the Swissôtel Kursaal Bern. First full-time, and then, from early 2027, part-time whilst studying at the Thun School of Tourism. Before she starts school, she’ll be travelling around Thailand for a month – partly as a reward for her incredibly good exam results.
The Kursaal Bern is delighted: Annina Schneider is one of five who will remain with the company after their exams. For the company, this is a striking endorsement of its training strategy: by supporting young people, it secures skilled staff for the future.
