Shaping Futures: A Comparative Study of Career Intentions Before and After Industrial Training among Hotel Management Students

Abstract

Industrial training has emerged as a critical experiential learning component in hospitality education, offering students practical exposure that bridges the gap between academic knowledge and industry expectations. This study aims to explore the role of industrial training in shaping the professional development and career intentions of hotel management students. By employing a comparative design, the research captures and analyses the shift in students' career aspirations before and after undergoing six months of industrial training across various departments in hotels.

Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews from 150 final-year hotel management students enrolled in recognized Indian institutions. The findings indicate that industrial training not only enhances students’ technical and interpersonal skills but also significantly influences their career choices. While many students reported increased clarity, motivation, and readiness for hospitality careers post-training, a notable percentage reconsidered their career paths due to factors such as long working hours, lack of mentorship, and perceived industry challenges.

This study highlights the importance of quality internship experiences in determining whether students choose to pursue or exit the hospitality sector. The insights generated can help academic institutions redesign training modules and collaborate more effectively with industry partners to deliver student-centered, meaningful training experiences that align with evolving career aspirations.