Internships are an integral part of one’s career, especially at the very beginning of it. And being able to have practical and real life experience is really beneficial. As you go through your training and practice in EHL Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality, having an internship will make a tremendous difference in the future decisions that you choose, the people you network with, and the types of assignments you take in the future.
How effective are internships?
As internship is very effective, not only in the short run but also on a long term basis. This is where students may learn a new language, are able to immerse themselves into a new culture, and learn how to navigate a number of scenarios within the industry. Whether paid or unpaid, an internship provides practical experience and a foundation of how management works within an organization.
How does the Internship process work?
Based on our program, most internships are placed directly from the relationships forged with the school. Our establishment has a great network all around the world. Not to be taken lightly, the process is almost identical to a job interview. There are various elements to it.
Recruitment and Selection:
Interns are recruited and selected based on a number of factors, including grades, prior experience, area of concentration and whether or not the employer feels you would be a good fit. Having knowledge of more than one language is always attractive, especially if the internship is in a different country. Some students find internships on their own and do it just for the experience. This is a valuable approach, as it shows initiative and commitment to their future professional pathway.
Integration into the culture:
Once you are hired, you will go through a series of trainings and shadowing, to become familiar with the company. There is a certain work culture or work ethic that is followed by all the employees of an organization. This is an on boarding process much like that of an employee orientation. This is where you will be introduced to everyone, find out what departments are within the establishment, what is your job going to be like, and anything else of importance, to assist them in doing a good job.
Designation of assignments and tasks:
You, as an intern, will be assigned with several tasks with a specific job description, but this may vary based on the decision of management. Many organizations rotate the intern from department to department as it provides a full understanding of what goes on within the company. There may be a few projects to complete, as well as team projects to determine their capabilities and how well you work with others.
Performance evaluation:
At the end of the internship, you will receive a performance evaluation that outlines what you did well and what you should improve for future references. The evaluation will be given to the person in charge of your internship contract as he/she will decide your grade for internship. Yes, the internship is graded too. But that just makes it more challenging. This also determines whether or not they will rehire you again, or wishes to hire you on a permanent basis.
Many students have used internships as a stepping stone to gain employment, and consider the opportunity as a valuable learning tool. Internships really open a whole new world for you as tourism is all over the globe.