How Can I Secure My Internship in a Good Hotel?

One of the questions I hear most from students is:

"How can I secure my internship in a good hotel?"

My answer is always the same:

It starts long before you send your application.

As someone who has worked in Human Resources in the hotel industry for many years, I've interviewed and met hundreds of students. I can honestly say that getting into a good hotel isn't only about having high grades. It's about showing that you're ready to learn and willing to work.

Start preparing early

Don't wait until your school announces that it's internship season.

Prepare your resume ahead of time. Make sure your contact details are correct, your information is updated, and your resume

looks clean and professional. A simple resume that is well organized is always better than one that is full of unnecessary designs. You can download here a sample CV I have prepared for you.

Editable Student CV Template.docx

Download DOCX • 11KB

Research the hotels you're applying to

Before you submit your application, take a few minutes to learn about the hotel.

What kind of guests do they serve? What are their values? What departments do they have?

Knowing these things not only helps you choose the right hotel, but it also shows genuine interest when you are invited for an interview.

Apply to more than one hotel

Many students focus on only one dream hotel.

While it's perfectly fine to have a preferred choice, don't limit yourself. Internship opportunities can be competitive, so applying to several reputable hotels increases your chances of securing a placement.

Be professional from the very first message

Whether you're sending an email, making a phone call, or walking into the hotel, remember that your professionalism begins with your first interaction.

Use polite language, dress appropriately if you're visiting the hotel, and always communicate respectfully.

First impressions matter.

Take the interview seriously

Some students think internship interviews are just a formality.

They're not.

Hotels want interns who are reliable, eager to learn, and have a positive attitude. You don't need to have all the answers. It's perfectly okay to be nervous. What matters is being honest, respectful, and showing enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Your attitude matters more than you think

This is probably the biggest piece of advice I can give you.

Skills can be taught.

Hotel procedures can be learned.

But attitude is something you bring with you.

As an HR professional, I've seen students with average resumes leave a lasting impression because they were humble, prepared, and genuinely excited to learn. I've also seen students with excellent qualifications miss opportunities because they appeared uninterested or overconfident.

A final thought

If you're hoping to secure an internship in a good hotel, don't focus on finding the "perfect" hotel first.

Focus on becoming the kind of student that hotels are excited to welcome.

Be prepared. Be professional. Stay curious. And remember that your internship is not just a school requirement—it's the beginning of your career in hospitality.