Undergraduate management students perceptions toward the Hotel Hospitality Industry

The aim of this research is to identify the perceptions, attitudes and expectations of a group of students on the hotel management degree programme at the Shannon College of Hotel Management. Furthermore, the study hopes to uncover the general opinion students exhibit toward the hospitality business in terms of the image attached to the industry and the possible level of commitment these students will have to pursuing a career once they graduate. Industry reports highlight the importance of attracting and retaining trained employees for the future success of the industry. A sample of students (N = 118) participated in this study. A questionnaire was administered to First Year and Third Tear classes (Years 2 4 are on placement experience). Questions focused on general demographic variables, the factors influencing them to study hotel management, the expectations they have concerning salaries and working hours. Other questions centred on finding out the level of commitment expressed by the students to working in the industry. In general, all students responded favourably toward working in the industry. Students believe it to be a growing industry with opportunities for employment. Differences exist between Year 1 and Year 3 students in terms of pay, working hours, attitudes to management with Year 3 students offering a more negative perspective to these aspects. Similarly, level of commitment varies between pre and post #8208;placement students with third years showing less inclination to work in the short and medium term in the industry. The role of placement experience is suggested as an influencing factor and should be the responsibility of both the educational institution