What is the difference in perceptions of personal and professional preparedness and expectations pre- and post-internship among hospitality and tourism graduates

This study compared perceptions of personal and professional preparedness and expectations of hospitality graduates before and after the hospitality internship. Graduates from hospitality/tourism programs at four universities in the Southeast were interviewed. Results of a mixed-methods design showed that schools permitted students to select their internship locations. Graduates believed they were personally and professionally prepared for their internships in most areas except financial accounting and hospitality law. After the internship, students reported that expectations of quality time with and for a family, time for social activities, insurance benefits, and location of a future job were not unrealistic. Universities and industry executives should continually evaluate the link between student perceptions of personal and professional preparedness and expectations and actual practice so that the hospitality and tourism industry continues to benefit from better-prepared graduates.