“The real value is the learning; the pay is simply a bonus”
Christian Sun’s passion for hospitality led him across the globe to chase his dreams, and his time at Benchmark has become the cornerstone of his journey.
As a student in the two-year Tourism Management – Business Development (Co-op) program, Sun recently earned a seat at the table as a recipient of the Benchmark Student Experience Scholarship. In December, he was one of four standout students from the Culinary, Tourism, and Beverage Studies division awarded the $1,000 scholarship. The award recognized those who consistently cater to excellence, celebrating their leadership, teamwork, and tireless dedication to both the restaurant and various charitable initiatives.
Whether he’s shaking up cocktails or showcasing NC’s finest wines and beers table side, Sun has been a part of the dining room team since September 2024. Now in his final term, he is seeping up every bit of experience before graduation. InsideNC shines a spotlight on Sun’s journey:
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in the Philippines, and I currently live in Niagara Falls. I moved to Canada to pursue my education and to gain meaningful experience in the hospitality and tourism industry.
What led you to your program?
I am currently studying Tourism Management – Business Development. I was drawn to this field because of my curiosity about how attractions and tourism products are developed, marketed, and promoted. Alongside this, I have a strong passion for creativity, and I enjoy seeing how creative ideas come to life through guest experiences and service.
How do you feel about receiving the scholarship?
Receiving the scholarship was truly an amazing and humbling experience. It felt like a recognition of my passion for service and the effort I put into my work. Celebrating this achievement with my peers made it even more meaningful, as it validated what we have all worked hard for. Financially, it was a big help, especially as an international student managing educational expenses.
What kind of experience have you gained with Benchmark?
Throughout my journey at Niagara College, I often heard about the school’s strong commitment to experiential learning. Working with Benchmark truly brought that to life. It opened many opportunities to gain hands-on experience that aligns with my career path, and it allowed me to build connections within the industry that I continue to value and nurture.
Why did you want to get involved at Benchmark?
Initially, I was encouraged by friends who were also working with Benchmark but, on a deeper level, I wanted to learn and grow within a professional service environment that follows high standards. I wanted to reflect on these experiences and use them as a guide as I move toward my career after college. Benchmark gave me clarity, direction, and a strong foundation.
How has working at Benchmark helped advance your skills?
What I appreciated most about Benchmark is the learning mindset it promotes. Through training and real dining room experiences, we were encouraged to see mistakes as part of continuous learning. Every guest interaction became an opportunity to understand different perspectives and service expectations. These experiences were incredibly rewarding.
I often say that the real value is the learning; the pay is simply a bonus.
Do you feel your experience will help as you pursue your career path?
Absolutely. Both the program and my experience with Benchmark have become the foundation of my career journey. Being able to learn in the classroom and apply those lessons in a real hospitality setting has been incredibly meaningful, and it has given me confidence and direction as I pursue my future in the tourism and hospitality industry.
Support Student Success at NC
Benchmark Experience Scholarships are powered by NC’s Student Experience Scholarship Fund, launched at the end of 2024 to reward students who contribute to College events and community activities as part of the Benchmark team.
Because Benchmark is a learning laboratory, the restaurant does not accept traditional gratuities. To ensure the focus remains on educational opportunities, the fund allows patrons who enjoyed exceptional service to “tip it forward” by scanning a QR code on the menu.
Donations can also be made directly through an online donation form.
NC’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division includes the schools of Culinary Arts; Wine, Beer and Spirits; and Hospitality and Tourism. The division hosts weekly pop-ups as well as signature academic events throughout the year. Visit niagaracollege.ca/culinary arts/events/.
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