Welcome to the Hospitality & Tourism Community!
Students and alumni interested in careers in hospitality and tourism, this space is for you! Take a look at the blog posts, videos, and resources below to help support you in your career journey.
Careers in the hospitality and tourism cluster relate to the management, marketing, and operations of restaurants and other food services, lodging, attractions, recreation events, and travel related services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the role of hospitality and tourism?
- The hospitality and tourism industry includes lodging, restaurants, event planning, theme parks, transportation services, cruises, travel guides, casinos, movie theaters, and tourism.
- The industry is important for travel, as hospitality and tourism workers help plan trips and make travel reservations, operate hotels and amusement parks, and guide tours.
- Jobs in this cluster were severely reduced during the pandemic due to travel bans as well as closures of restaurants and entertainment facilities. Experts expect that the industry will gradually rebound fully.
Would a career in hospitality and tourism be a good fit for me?
Do you want to be a part of the crew at coffee shops, restaurants, recreation locations, or travel destinations? Then a career in the hospitality and tourism cluster may be a good fit for you. Here are some points to keep in mind.
- This industry is people-focused and you should expect to work in a customer facing role; success in most hospitality-related jobs relies on customer satisfaction.
- November and December holidays generate a great deal of activity in the hospitality and tourism industry and workers are typically expected to work longer hours, evenings, and weekends in many positions.
- Summer months are typically busier than other seasons in this industry.
- A number of hospitality and tourism careers have low wages, however tips for good service provide a significant boost in pay.
Gaining Experience
- Gain experience with an internship through these organizations or Hospitality Internships.
- Find a hospitality apprenticeship.
- Volunteer with non-profit organizations to support event planning.
- Discover internships abroad in Hospitality & Tourism with Intern Abroad HQ, Maximo Nivel, and The Intern Group (virtual internships available).
- Utilize social media, blog, or vlog to share your travel experiences to demonstrate your knowledge of and experience in the hospitality and tourism industry.
- Volunteer with:
- Peace Corps
- Museum docent
- State & City Visitor Centers
- State Parks
