Sahejpreet Singh works behind the counter at the LinX Lounge while finishing his hospitality studies at Humber Polytechnic.
Singh, a second-year student in Humber’s Hospitality - Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management program, said he chose the program after his sister recommended it.
“She felt it would be a good fit for me, so I trusted her advice and decided to go for it,” he said.
Singh said Humber appealed to him for the same reason, but he also liked the campus itself, especially the nature-focused space at the back of the campus.
At the LinX Lounge, Singh works as an attendant. He helps customers choose what they want, prepares coffee and supports service during busy periods. He said he also helps with DJ-related tasks during events.
The lounge serves coffee and baked goods such as cookies and brownies, as well as ice cream. It also serves beer to guests of legal drinking age. Students can also use the space to play pool, ping pong and foosball.
Singh said the biggest skills he uses on the job are communication and guest service.
“I’ve learned how to interact with different kinds of people, understand their needs, and recommend options accordingly,” he said.
He said the job has also taught him lessons that do not show up in class.
“Honestly, it taught me that you can’t always keep smiling,” he said. “There are situations where you need to speak up and address issues professionally.”
Singh said he watches how students use the space and notices most treat it as a place to relax and relieve stress.
“Some come to socialize and make new friends, while a few also use it as a place to study during their free time,” he said.
He said the best part of the job is meeting new people and building relationships with customers and co-workers. The toughest part is handling difficult customers.
After graduation, Singh said he wants to work in a hotel or restaurant to broaden his experience. Long term, he said he plans to open a cafe in Japan within six years.
“I plan to stay in this industry because my long-term goal is to open my own cafe in Japan,” he said.
Singh said many people underestimate hospitality work.
“Many people see hospitality as just hard labour or a low-profile job, but they don’t see the bigger picture,” he said. “With patience, consistency and dedication, people can achieve great success.”
