JGSOM REnt graduate is the first Ateneo graduate to be offered a management role at Sofitel New York

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Raphael Catan, a 2025 BS Restaurant Entrepreneurship graduate of Ateneo, has been offered the F&B Manager in Training (US J1 Internship Program)at Sofitel New York — marking the first Ateneo alum to be offered a management role in this prestigious 5 star hotel.

From the very start of his journey, Raphael set his sights on leadership and management, intentionally building experience beyond the kitchen to prepare for an executive path in hospitality. His background includes cross-training across multiple Wolfgang Steakhouse branches, in-depth wine training, and both kitchen and service exposure at Il Lupino Prime Trattoria & Wine Bar by Peter Zwiener — experiences that sharpened his operational, financial, and guest-experience perspective. 

Sofitel New York, is a luxury French-inspired landmark in Midtown Manhattan renowned for refined service, elevated dining, and global hospitality standards. Working closely with Sofitel’s operations team, he will gain hands-on experience in guest relations, revenue-driven F&B management, and luxury hospitality operations in an international setting. 

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Every step of Raphael’s journey — from industry training to BS REnt's academic grounding — has equipped and prepared him for this milestone, reinforcing the program’s mission to turn passion into profession through real-world exposure.

We’re incredibly proud of you, Raphael — congratulations on this achievement, and best wishes as you take on New York City!