Intro:
Internships are a vital bridge between what you learn in the classroom and what you will do in a real hotel or restaurant. At MAI IHM, internships are mandatory—and if you make the most of them, they can become your stepping stone into a strong career. Here’s how to maximize your internship experience.
1. Start with Clear Goals
Before you begin, define what you want from your internship. Is it to master a particular skill (food production, pastry, front desk, housekeeping)? Or to learn leadership / guest interactions / time management?
Tip: Journal your goals and share them with your supervisor so they can guide you accordingly.
2. Be Punctual, Present, and Professional
Show up on time, keep your uniform/timetable neat, follow instructions carefully. These small things leave a big impression. Good attitude and reliability often matter more than raw technical skill at first.
3. Seek Feedback & Ask Questions
Don’t just wait to be told what to do. Ask for feedback regularly. Ask why a particular method is used. Be curious: what makes a sauce cooked that way? Why are certain guest interactions handled differently?
4. Observe & Learn Beyond Your Role
You’ll be assigned certain tasks, but great interns observe across roles. Watch how F&B service handles guest complaints, how housekeeping ensures hygiene, how front office deals with bookings. Every department has learnings.
5. Network & Build Relationships
Introduce yourself to experienced chefs, managers, mentors. Make sure you know names. Good relationships can lead to recommendations, future job offers, or mentorship.
6. Document Your Work
Keep records of what tasks you did, skills you learned, any challenges and how you overcame them. If possible, take photos (with permission), ask for letters of recommendation at the end, or write case studies.
Conclusion:
A well-done internship can set you apart in the hospitality field. At MAI IHM, you’re given chances to learn both technical and soft skills. Use them well. When you finish your internship, you should not only have more confidence and experience—but also a clear vision for what kind of hospitality professional you want to become.
