Sun, sand and study: gaining experience through resort internships

In hospitality, where service meets sophistication and guest experiences are crafted with care, resort internships can be great opportunities for people who want to work in the industry. Amid the sun-kissed shores and tranquil landscapes, these internships offer budding professionals a chance to boost their resumés and gain valuable hands-on experience. Roughly two-thirds of paid interns get full-time job offers, showing just how beneficial internships can be.

Join us as we explore what resort internships are and how they can help set students up for a career in hospitality. From mastering the art of guest relations to understanding the intricate workings of resort management, each moment spent in these vibrant settings becomes a lesson in itself, shaping the future leaders of the hospitality sector.

What are internships?

An internship is a structured opportunity that allows students to gain experience in their field of study, supplementing theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning. They allow individuals to explore their chosen industry, develop essential soft skills and build professional networks crucial for future career endeavors. Internships also help boost employability and give students experience they can put on their resumé.

Different types of internships

Work placement opportunities come in various shapes and sizes, each offering unique experiences tailored to different career paths and interests. Some internship types include:

• Traditional internships: these typically follow a set schedule, ranging from a few weeks to several months and are often full-time commitments. Students work alongside professionals in their field, gaining exposure to day-to-day operations and specific tasks within the organization
• Virtual internships: with the rise of remote work, virtual placements have become increasingly popular. These allow students to work remotely, collaborating with teams and completing tasks online. While they offer flexibility in terms of location and schedule, virtual internships still provide valuable learning opportunities
• Co-op programs: these alternate between periods of work and study, enabling students to apply classroom learning in real-world settings and vice versa
• Summer internships: short-term positions that typically take place during the summer break from academic studies. They provide students with the opportunity to dedicate time to gaining professional experience without the distractions of coursework
• Paid versus unpaid internships: while paid internships offer financial compensation for work performed, unpaid internships still provide academic credit or valuable experience in exchange for the student’s time and effort

Benefits of resort internships abroad

For aspiring hospitality professionals, resort internships offer a blend of cultural experience and professional development unlike any other. Some of the main reasons to choose a resort internship include:

• Cultural immersion: whether nestled in the lush jungles of Costa Rica, overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives or in the historic charm of European resorts, each destination offers its own unique flavor and perspective. Interns have the opportunity to engage with guests from around the world, gaining insight into cultural nuances and customs while broadening their global outlook
• Language proficiency: interning at a resort abroad often presents students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in a foreign language, boosting their language proficiency and communication skills. Language learning adds an extra layer of depth to the internship experience and opens doors to international career opportunities
• Cross-cultural competence: internships abroad provide a unique environment for students to develop this skill by navigating cultural differences, adapting to local customs and collaborating with colleagues and guests from a wide range of backgrounds. These experiences foster adaptability, empathy and a global mindset, qualities essential for success in a multicultural sector such as hospitality
• Professional development: interns get the chance to work alongside seasoned professionals, learning from their expertise and gaining hands-on experience in various facets of resort operations. Whether assisting with guest services, event management or food and beverage operations, interns develop a versatile skillset that prepares them for future leadership roles in the dynamic hospitality industry

Challenges of resort internships

While internships offer invaluable learning experiences and opportunities for personal and professional growth, they also come with their own set of challenges. Navigating these is an integral part of the process, helping interns develop resilience, problem-solving skills and adaptability in the face of real-world obstacles. Among the main challenges are:

• High expectations: the hospitality industry is known for its high standards of service and interns are expected to meet these expectations from day one. Balancing the demands of guest satisfaction with the learning curve of a new role can be challenging, requiring interns to quickly adapt to the fast-paced environment
• Long hours and shift work: resort operations run around the clock, meaning interns may be required to work long hours and irregular shifts. This can lead to fatigue and burnout if not managed effectively. Interns need to prioritize self-care and time management to maintain a healthy work-life balance
• Multitasking and pressure: interns have to juggle multiple jobs and responsibilities simultaneously. From responding to guest requests to helping coordinate events, interns must learn to thrive under pressure and prioritize tasks efficiently
• Language and cultural barriers: for interns working in international resort destinations, this can present a significant challenge. Communicating effectively with guests and colleagues from different cultural backgrounds may require patience, adaptability and language proficiency skills
• Handling guest complaints: this is an inevitable part of working in hospitality. Interns must learn to navigate these interactions with professionalism, empathy and problem-solving skills, turning potentially negative experiences into opportunities for learning
• Adapting to new environments: interns may find themselves working in unfamiliar surroundings, whether it’s a remote island resort, a bustling city hotel or a rustic mountain lodge. Adapting to new environments, climates and living conditions can be a steep learning curve, requiring interns to be flexible, open minded and resourceful

Life after the internship: career paths and progression

Completing a resort internship marks the beginning of an exciting journey toward a career in the hospitality industry. As interns transition from their placement experience to the next phase of their professional lives, they have a wide range of career paths and progression opportunities to explore, such as:

• Specialized roles: including hospitality careers such as revenue management, guest relations, concierge services or food and beverage management. Specialized roles offer opportunities for career growth and advancement in niche areas of the industry
• Management training programs: designed to prepare talented individuals for leadership roles,  these programs typically provide a combination of hands-on experience, mentorship and formal training
• Career advancement: interns can progress through the ranks of the hospitality industry and advance into senior management or executive positions. This may involve pursuing further education, obtaining industry certifications or gaining experience in different areas of resort management
• Entrepreneurship: some resort interns may be inspired to start their own hospitality-related business, such as boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, event planning companies or catering services. This offers the opportunity to create innovative solutions, build a unique brand and make a mark in the industry
• Global opportunities: the hospitality industry is inherently international, offering opportunities for resort interns to pursue careers in destinations around the world. Whether working for global hotel chains, luxury resorts, cruise lines or destination management companies, the possibilities for international career paths are endless

Getting an internship as part of your degree

Universities and colleges recognize the importance of hospitality internships and typically provide support to help students secure these opportunities. This often means they have dedicated internship coordinators or advisors who assist students with resumé writing, interview preparation and connecting with industry professionals. A good hospitality school will also often have established partnerships with hotels, resorts, restaurants and other hospitality venues to provide internship placements for students. These partnerships not only provide students with access to a wide range of internship opportunities but also include mentorship from industry professionals and potential pathways to employment upon graduation.

The application process for internships involves students showcasing their skills, experiences and academic achievements through tailored resumés, cover letters and sometimes interviews. It’s crucial for students to highlight their relevant qualifications and express their enthusiasm for the internship position.

Internships as part of degree programs are carefully structured to align with specific learning objectives set by the academic institution. Students may be required to complete assignments, journals or reflective assessments throughout their internship experience to demonstrate their understanding of key concepts and their development of practical skills.

Conclusion

Resort internships are transformative experiences that can help shape future hospitality leaders. From navigating challenges to embracing cultural diversity, interns emerge with invaluable skills and a passion for excellence. With determination and a commitment to lifelong learning, interns have a great chance to boost their employability and learn new skills. Interns also get the opportunity to work in exciting and interesting places. To find the best internships and make a big step towards a successful career, see how hospitality degrees from schools such as Glion can help.

Photo credits:
Main image: Getty Thomas Barwick