In its continued commitment to providing experiential and skills-based education, the University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao (USLT), through the GloCal Partnerships and Engagement (GPE) office and the School of Accountancy, Business, and Hospitality (SABH), successfully deployed sixty-five (65) third-year students from the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) and Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) programs for a three-week internship that spanned both shipboard and aviation settings.
The program officially commenced on June 17, 2025, with a 7-day onboard training aboard MV 2GO Maligaya, giving students a first-hand experience of cruise-based hospitality operations. Trainees rotated through departments such as front office, housekeeping, food and beverage, and sales, where they engaged in activities like guest reception, complaint handling, end-port general cleaning, food service operations, and retail sales. This foundational phase honed their skills in professionalism, adaptability, communication, and customer service.
Following the onboard training, the students split into two specialized tracks. Thirty-six (36) BSHM students continued their internship from June 24 to July 4, 2025, at the Far East Maritime Academy and Technological Corp. in San Fabian, Pangasinan, undergoing Basic Life and Safety Training. The training emphasized shipboard operations and emergency preparedness, reinforcing discipline, safety awareness, and technical skills in a maritime setting.
Meanwhile, twenty-nine (29) BSTM students headed to PTC Aviation Training Center Inc. in Parañaque City, Metro Manila, for a 9-day Cabin Crew Training program. From June 24 to July 3, 2025, they were immersed in aviation modules that included in-flight safety demonstrations, emergency simulations, mock interviews, and in-flight food and beverage service. Emphasis was placed not only on technical mastery but also on the development of soft skills such as poise, empathy, active listening, and teamwork—vital for future tourism and airline professionals.
Throughout the internship, each student completed a total of 300 training hours, marking a significant leap from classroom learning to industry practice.
“I began this internship journey hesitant and scared, unsure if I was ready to face the challenges of a real-world environment,” shared Charlotte R. Blanche (BSTM-3), one of the top-performing interns. “But the hands-on training and mentorship helped me grow in confidence, professionalism, and adaptability.”
Justine Pasamonte, another BSTM intern, reflected on her aviation training experience: “From safety demonstrations to in-flight service simulations, this training gave us a clearer view of what lies ahead. It reignited our dreams and tested our skills in high-pressure and real-time situations.”
Xarex Asuncion, who ranked among the top three trainees in shipboard training, added: “This internship significantly shaped my future as a professional. It bridged the gap between theory and practice, and helped me discover a stronger sense of purpose in service.”
The training is part of USLT’s continuous effort to enhance industry-based learning through relevant partnerships and mobility programs. As students return to campus, they carry with them sharpened skills and newfound discipline — ready to take off toward future careers in hospitality and tourism.
#SABH #ChooseUSLT #ExperienceUSLT #USLTPhilippines
