A team of five students from Edge Hotel School have been described as “incredible” by judges at a European competition for hospitality students after being crowned champions on their first attempt.
The students were awarded the prestigious EMCup after a gruelling two-day competition in Maastricht which tested their innovation, teamwork and business knowledge.
It’s the first time a team from Edge Hotel School, at the University of Essex, has entered the competition which recognises the best hospitality management school in Europe.
Speaking about their win, competition judge and Director of BWH Hotels Stefan Dubbeling said: “To walk in as first-time competitors and walk out as champions, it’s incredible.”
The team was coached by lecturer Alex Horswill. He said: “The students worked tirelessly, supporting each other every step of the way. Their determination, creativity, and professionalism were second to none.
“Winning the EMCup on our first attempt is a testament to their talent and the incredible education they receive at Edge.”
The team competed against students from Europe’s top hospitality schools in the annual competition, which encourages students to think outside the box by proposing real-life scenarios that they respond to.
In the final Dragon’s Den-style task, the Essex team had to present a solution to a blind case study – a Dutch hotel that wanted to improve staff retention. Speaking after their win, all four Dragon judges said they would have invested in the Edge team’s suggested nature spaces and breakrooms for staff to relax in.
Speaking about the experience, final-year Hotel Management student Emma Sharma said: “Taking part in EMCup was a transformative experience that pushed me beyond my limits and showed me the true power of teamwork and resilience.
“I joined to challenge myself and grow, but I walked away with so much more – confidence, new skills, and unforgettable memories.
“To future students: seize this opportunity, step out of your comfort zone, trust that the journey will shape you in ways you never imagined!”
Final-year Hotel Management student Megan Ellis-Smith added: “The EM Cup was truly an unforgettable experience that has helped my personal and professional growth through the challenge of stepping out of my comfort zone in the multiple tasks, pitches and Dragons’ Den.”
Speaking about the students’ success, Adrian Martin, Deputy Head of the School, said: “This unexpected triumph is not only a monumental achievement for the School, but also signals a bright future for our students who are already in great demand.
“No one has ever won on their first attempt and the staff and students here are so very proud.”
