So Harada

I studied Professional Wine and Bar service at Aoraki Polytechnic in 2005. I was mainly interested in gaining barista skills, but the certificate covered all aspects of hospitality and really helped me to develop my career. After I finished my Certificate at Aoraki I worked at a cafe in Queenstown for three years, I got the job from previous work experience I had completed through Aoraki Polytechnic.

I returned home to Japan and now work as an associate manager at a restaurant in Yokohama-city. I do everything from being a waiter, bar person, cooking, management of sales and soon also I will be using my barista skills.

I strongly recommend the programme to people who are looking for a career in hospitality. Aoraki's tutors are very professional and their restaurant and kitchens are excellent. The programme covers a whole range of important skills and knowledge in the hospitality industry and my qualification helped me start my career in both New Zealand and back here in Japan.
In the near future I look forward to starting my own restaurant or cafe.