Tourism and Hospitality: The Business of Destinations
Do you have a passion for travel, for excellent tourist experiences, for the logistics of inviting visitors to enjoy new and exciting places? You might belong in the tourism industry.
Tourism and Hospitality Management focuses on the business and operations of hotels, restaurants, travel, events, and entertainment. In this industry, you will interact with many clients and professionals and have the opportunity to learn about various cultures. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council and Statistica, last year, the travel and tourism industry in the US contributed to 2.36 trillion USD to Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Large companies with fellowships and internship programs hire early (think Marriott and Hilton). You will want to start looking at these programs in August and September. Sports and hospitality internships also post in the fall (think MLB and NBA, as well as specific teams).
International Students: Recruitment can vary based on industry of interest. Check Interstride.
Graduate students & MBAs: Outside of these rotational programs, which also take place at the graduate and MBA levels, full-time recruiting is mainly done “just-in-time” or when the employer has a n immediate, specific need.
Guest Services
Reservationist
Hotel Manager
Restaurant Manager
Travel Professional
Event Sales
Recreation Coordinator
Event Manager
Event Manager Trainee
University Intern Hotel Operations
Hotel Operations Manager
Operations Supervisor
Taking on leadership or e-board roles in student clubs is a great way of buildings skills and competencies as well as your network!
- Sports Business Association
LinkedIn Groups
Professional Organizations
- Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International
- International Luxury Hotel Association
- Professional Convention Management Association
- American Hotel and Lodging Association
- Institute of Hospitality
- Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals
- American Society for Travel Advisors
- Global Business Travel Association