"After Hours" event: A lesson in creativity, teamwork, and hospitality management

In November 2024, RIT Croatia’s Dubrovnik campus came alive with “After Hours,” an exciting evening of games, food, and friendship. The event, meticulously designed by the Meeting and Events Management class, showcased the creativity and organizational skills of the students from the Hospitality and Tourism Management program, under the guidance of their professor, Milena Kužnin. It was more than just a social gathering—it was a real-world application of hospitality and tourism management principles.

A Vibrant Event Concept

Sophie Noah Živković, one of the student organizers, shared the thought process behind the event’s concept. “Our class had so many ideas, from board games to quizzes and creative workshops. The idea was to create a fun and engaging environment where students, faculty, and staff could unwind and connect. The name ‘After Hours’ reflects this intention perfectly,” she explained. The event began with personalized mocktails created by senior-year student Tijana Matović. Attendees were then guided to various activity rooms, offering everything from vision board and dreamcatcher crafting to interactive games like Pictionary and Alias. A unique twist came in the form of a non-alcoholic beer pong game, where participants completed playful challenges instead of sipping drinks. The night concluded with a delicious burger dinner, waffles, and a Kahoot quiz finale that brought everyone together.

Challenges and Triumphs

Sophie highlighted the challenges faced during planning and execution, from predicting attendance to managing last-minute changes. “The biggest surprise was the overwhelming demand at the mocktail station,” she admitted. “The F&B team worked tirelessly to keep up, and it emphasized the importance of teamwork and adaptability.” Despite logistical hurdles, the event exceeded expectations with a larger-than-anticipated turnout and rave reviews. “Many attendees commented on the creative workshops, interactive games, and food. The success reinforced our belief in the value of detailed planning and collaboration,” Sophie said. One of the evening’s highlights was the signature mocktail by Tijana Matović. “Tijana’s attention to detail was amazing,” Sophie recalled. The vibrant, refreshing drink was designed to mirror the event’s playful atmosphere, and its popularity showcased the power of small details in creating memorable experiences.

For Sophie, organizing “After Hours” was a transformative learning experience. She gained skills in marketing, event operations, and problem-solving while applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. “This experience prepared me for future projects by teaching me the importance of planning, adaptability, and teamwork,” she noted.

Guidance from the Classroom to the Real World

Professor Milena Kužnin emphasized how such events align with the learning outcomes of the Meeting and Events Management course. “This event mirrors the dynamics of the event industry, requiring students to apply theoretical knowledge, manage stakeholders, and execute plans professionally,” she explained. The course emphasizes collaboration, reflection, and creativity, with students divided into specialized teams handling marketing, F&B, logistics, and more. After the event, a post-event debrief encouraged students to reflect on successes and areas for improvement, fostering a culture of continuous learning. Professor Kužnin highlighted trends like sustainability, improved professionalism, and diverse cultural perspectives among her students. “Each cohort demonstrates increasing creativity and adaptability, preparing them to be leaders in the hospitality and event management industry,” she said.

A Platform for Future Success

“After Hours” was not just an event; it was a comprehensive learning experience that bridged theory and practice. From crafting a standout mocktail to navigating logistical hurdles, the students emerged with valuable skills and memories. As Professor Kužnin suitably put it, “Events like this build transferable skills, enhance portfolios, and boost confidence. They ensure our students graduate career-ready, with a strong foundation to thrive in hospitality and event management.”