Qiang (Otto) Zhou

In just six short months Qiang Zhou (Otto) climbed his way from Food Runner to Duty Manager at Opium, one of the inner-city's most atmospheric and elegant bars.

The 23 year old from China landed the job last year while working towards his National Diploma in Hospitality Management at NZMA. He started off part-time and once he graduated, Opium offered him not only full-time work but also a promotion!

"I'm young to be a Duty Manager here so it's been a real challenge for me," says Otto, who is originally from Shen Yang in North East China.

"This position has taught me a lot and showed me that being a manager is not an easy job. You have to pay attention to a lot of things and work long hours - I work around 60 hours a week. It's very exciting though. I love this industry and feel that I've got a very good future ahead of me. One day I'd like to open my own bar so this is a great opportunity for me to learn."

Otto moved to New Zealand on the advice of his father, who had researched overseas study options extensively, coming to the conclusion that it was the pick of the bunch.

"My father's reasons were that New Zealand is safer, at that time it was cheaper, the study environment is good and the natural environment is better than other countries. I was pleased with that choice too because I like the quiet. My friends who were already living here said it would be perfect for me."

After a stint learning General English, Otto completed his Otago Foundation Year and then gained his hospitality diploma from NZMA.

"I found out about NZMA through a friend and came in to check it out. I thought it was very professional so I enrolled. It proved to be a good choice. I was taught basic skills such as coffee and cocktail making, wine knowledge and table service and I also learned a lot about managerial skills. It has all been very useful for me in my current position.

"The other good thing about NZMA is that the Employment Advisor helps students find part-time work during their studies so that they get some industry experience. For example before I started working at Opium I worked part-time in the banquet department at the Stamford Plaza. I learned a lot there. This sort of experience definitely helps when you are looking for full-time work after you graduate."