Hello! My name is Muhammad Ilham Jivaresta, an alumnus of the Business Hotel Management program at BINUS University @Bekasi (BINUSIAN 2024). During my first year of studies, I decided to leap out of my comfort zone by entering my very first coffee competition the Indonesia Coffee Art Battle (ICAB) at the SIAL Interfood Expo. Stepping into the manual brewing category as a complete beginner alongside 24 seasoned industry baristas was an intimidating challenge, especially while navigating tight preparation timelines, unfamiliar equipment, and unexpected technical hurdles on stage.

However, applying the practical fundamentals from my Cafe and Bar course and spending dedicated practice hours in the BHM laboratory gave me the technical edge and confidence I needed to push through every round. Supported constantly by BHM lecturers, faculty mentors, and fellow BINUSIANS, I proudly secured 4th place overall as the only first-year student in the finals. This achievement proved to me that BINUS Business Hotel Management doesn’t just teach hospitality theory it provides the platform, resources, and mentorship for students to turn ambition into real-world success.”