Mónica Balanza, Extraordinary Award for Higher Vocational Training: “We are the new generation, and we are here to change things”

These awards were created in 2023 to stimulate and acknowledge the efforts of vocational training students. They reward those who, thanks to their effort, discipline and dedication, achieve outstanding academic performance. 

One award is granted for each professional family within the higher-level vocational programs offered in Catalonia. This year, in the Hospitality and Tourism professional family, Mónica Balanza, a student of the Higher Technician in Tourism Accommodation Management, has received the award. 

We spoke with Mónica to learn more about her academic journey at CETT Campus. 

• Congratulations, Mónica. What has this recognition meant to you? 

I didn’t expect it. I entered the competition without any expectations of winning, and when they told me I had won, I couldn’t believe it. It has been a recognition of my effort during the course, and it motivates me to keep improving. 

• This award is granted to students with the best academic records. What would you say is the key to your academic success? 

The main key to achieving anything is the effort and dedication you put into it. Personally, I’m very self-demanding, and if I know I can do better or achieve a higher result, I push myself until I succeed. I also think it’s important to enjoy what you’re doing, because the best motivation comes from doing something you love. 

• Why did you decide to study the Higher Technician in Tourism Accommodation Management? 

I started studying a degree in Tourism in Cuba and, after emigrating to Barcelona, I discovered CETT. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to continue my studies in the sector. The course content and the center’s facilities encouraged me to enroll. I also saw it as a way to keep learning languages — one of my passions — and to quickly enter the job market. 

• During your studies, did you have the opportunity to do an internship? How was the experience? 

Yes, I did an internship at the end of the first year, and then I did a dual training placement at the H10 Ítaca hotel throughout the second year. It was a bit exhausting but very interesting, because I was able to apply everything I had learned during the course, especially in the reception department, where I did my placement. It also gave me the chance to enter the job market, which was one of my goals. In fact, once my internship ended, they offered me a job, and I’m very happy to still be working there. 

• How would you say CETT training has helped you in terms of your professional future? 

My training at CETT has been essential for developing myself effectively in my professional life. It was also the gateway to my current job. 

• The future is now. What’s next for you? 

I will continue working and, at the same time, I’ll begin studying the Bachelor's Degree in Tourism at CETT, because I want to keep learning and challenging myself. The degree covers a broader range of topics, and I’m eager to grow in the sector. And if I can dream big, I’d love to go on an international mobility program in Japan and practice my Japanese. 

• What advice would you give to future students? 

Don’t settle for just passing — aim to learn, to achieve your goals, and to enjoy the experience and the moment. Above all, enjoy your years of study, because they won’t come back. I would also add that we have the opportunity to change what’s been established, to think of new ways of doing things. We are the new generation, and we are here to change the world. 

• And finally, could you share what your experience at CETT Campus has been like? 

My experience at CETT has been very positive. I’ve learned so much, had a lot of fun, made the most of it, and met wonderful people — now close friends — who made me feel at home every single day.