In the world of hospitality, internships are more than just a box to check, they're a chance to gain real experience, build your network, and get your foot in the door at top hotels, restaurants, and tourism companies. But with so many students applying for the same positions, how do you stand out?

At Hospitality Academy, we work closely with industry partners around the world. We’ve asked recruiters what they really look for when selecting candidates for internships. Their answers might surprise you, and they might help you land your dream role.

It’s Not Just About Experience

You might think you need years of hospitality experience to get noticed, but most recruiters understand that you’re still a student. What matters more than a long resume is your attitude, motivation, and willingness to learn.

Recruiters pay attention to how you present yourself, how much you know about the company, and how eager you are to grow in the industry. A short cover letter that shows genuine interest can often carry more weight than a long list of past jobs.

Communication Is Key

Whether you're applying for a role at the front desk or in event coordination, clear communication is one of the first things recruiters evaluate. This starts with how you write your application, but it really shows during the interview.

Are you polite and professional? Can you describe your goals clearly? Are you confident but humble? These soft skills are essential in hospitality, where communication with guests, coworkers, and managers happens all day, every day.

Cultural Awareness and Adaptability

The hospitality industry is global. Internships often involve working with people from different backgrounds, sometimes in countries you’ve never lived in before. Recruiters love candidates who are open-minded, respectful, and quick to adapt.

They also want to know that you’ll handle challenges with a good attitude. Whether it's a long shift, a guest complaint, or a sudden schedule change, how you respond says a lot about your potential as a future team member.

Professional Appearance and Presentation

First impressions matter. This doesn’t mean you need to show up in a designer suit, but you should look polished, confident, and professional. Many internships are in luxury hotels or fine dining settings where appearance plays a role in guest perception.

Recruiters want to know you understand the importance of personal grooming, good posture, and positive body language, especially in customer-facing roles.

A Clear Reason for Applying

One of the most common mistakes students make is applying to internships without explaining why. Recruiters want to know: Why this company? Why this location? Why this role?

A short but clear explanation of your interest helps them see that you’ve done your research and are serious about the opportunity. It also shows that you’re not just applying to every open position, but that you have a plan and vision for your future.

Willingness to Go the Extra Mile

Hospitality is not a 9–5 industry. Schedules change. Shifts can be long. Guests don’t always follow the script. Recruiters value students who are willing to take initiative, stay flexible, and show up with a positive attitude no matter what.

During interviews, they might ask how you handle difficult situations, whether you’re a team player, and how you deal with pressure. Be honest, but try to give examples that show your resilience and commitment.

Study at Hospitality Academy

Getting an internship in hospitality isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being prepared. Recruiters look for students who are eager to learn, communicate well, adapt easily, and take the role seriously. If you can show that you're ready to bring value to their team, even as a beginner, you’ll already be ahead of the game.

At Hospitality Academy, we don’t just teach hospitality, we help students live it. Through hands-on training, career coaching, and internship placement support, we make sure you're ready to impress recruiters and succeed in real-world environments.

Thinking about applying for an internship soon? Take time to understand what recruiters care about, and you’ll walk into your interview with the confidence that you’ve got what it takes. Schedule a free call with our admissions team here and they will help you take the next step!