Hospitality Students in Two-Year Programs: A Comparison Study of Career Orientation

This paper presents the findings of the investigation of the career orientation of students enrolled in hospitality management programs in associate degree granting colleges. Students seeking a degree in Hospitality Management, Hotel/Motel Management, or Foodservice/Restaurant Management were surveyed to determine the type of position and establishment they would prefer at graduation, in 3 years and in 5 years after graduation. The positions to be sought were in supervision and management at the department level with movement toward unit management in foodservice and lodging. Hotels and motels were the preferred establishment with foodservice declining in preference over time. All groups indicated a strong desire for business ownership. A variety of businesses were listed for ownership.