Written in part by intern Faith Schmeizl
July 25 is National Intern Day and it's a great time to celebrate the summer internship, which provides students with a wealth of experience. Here in Myrtle Beach, many of those internships center around the tourism and hospitality industry.
For example, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) and Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has four talented interns helping out its team this summer: Kaylee Alston, Bryce Graham, Raevyn Ramsey and Faith Schmeizl. Each are partcipating in a four-month internship program focused on equipping them with hands-on professional skills related to chamber and CVB operations such as marketing and communications, event planning and more.
Alston is a senior at Coastal Carolina University seeking a degree in marketing. She is an intern in the CVB’s marketing department, assisting with various tourism marketing campaigns.
Graham is a sophomore at the University of South Carolina pursuing a double major in management and marketing. He is working alongside Alston in the marketing department helping to promote tourism.
Ramsey is a returning intern, assisting the group sales department for the second summer. She graduated from Clemson University in May with a bachelor of science in environmental and natural resources with a concentration in economic policy.
Schmeizl is working as a content creator in the chamber’s business development department where she is writing blogs, taking photos and videos, and assisting with website updates. She’s a senior at Bryant University in Rhode Island pursuing a degree in digital marketing.
Summer Internships in Tourism Build Lifelong Skills
The Grand Strand is not only a beloved tourism destination but also a prime location for college students to gain valuable internship experience. The thriving tourism and hospitality industries provide a wealth of opportunities that can significantly benefit students’ academic and professional growth.
Internships in the tourism industry offer college students a chance to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. They can work in various roles, from hospitality management to marketing, allowing them to gain practical experience that enhances their resumes and prepares them for future careers. For example, an internship in a hotel management position can provide hands-on experience in operations, customer service and event planning.
The dynamic and fast-paced environment of the tourism industry helps students develop a strong work ethic. Interns learn to manage their time effectively, handle responsibilities efficiently, and adapt to changing situations, all of which are crucial skills in any professional field. Learning skills like multitasking, teamwork, and maintaining high standards of service under pressure will last a lifetime.
Internships offer excellent networking opportunities. Students can connect with industry professionals, mentors, and peers, building relationships that can lead to future job opportunities and career advice.
Communication skills are refined during internships in tourism. Effective communication is essential for resolving conflicts, providing excellent service, and working collaboratively in a team. Tourism internships can help improve public speaking skills, engaging with diverse audiences, and handling customer inquiries confidently.
The tourism industry places a strong emphasis on customer service. Interns learn how to deliver exceptional service, handle customer complaints, and create memorable experiences for guests, skills that are valuable in any industry. The hospitality industry teaches the importance of attentiveness, empathy, and problem-solving in maintaining customer satisfaction.
For college students looking to make the most of their summer, Myrtle Beach's tourism industry presents an excellent opportunity to learn, grow, and have fun. These internships allow students to explore different career paths and industries, helping them make informed decisions about their future. By working in various roles within the tourism sector, students can discover their passions and strengths.
