A Comprehensive Study on the Perception and Satisfaction Levels of Hospitality Students During Internships in Indian and Foreign Hotel Chains in Delhi NCR

The hospitality industry is a major contributor to the world economy, and internships play an essential role in connecting academic knowledge with hands-on industry practice. They help students gain real-world exposure, build confidence, and shape future career plans. This research investigates how hospitality students perceive their internship experience and how satisfied they are with it, comparing placements completed in Indian hotel brands and international hotel chains operating in the Delhi NCR region. The research identifies and evaluates critical factors influencing internship satisfaction—namely, the quality of training and mentoring, work environment, exposure to industry standards, and alignment with career aspirations. Using a mixed-methods research design, this study combines numerical findings from structured surveys with detailed perspectives gathered through interviews and focus group discussions. The sample comprises 150 hospitality students, with an equal representation from Indian (75) and foreign (75) hotel chains. The quantitative responses are evaluated through descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including measures such as mean, standard deviation, t-tests, and chi-square analysis. In contrast, qualitative responses are examined using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and deeper experiential themes. Preliminary findings indicate that foreign hotel chains offer more structured training and exposure to international practices, whereas Indian hotel chains provide a culturally immersive and flexible environment. Common challenges across both include limited mentorship opportunities and workload pressures affecting satisfaction levels. The study provides actionable recommendations for educational institutions and hotel management to strengthen internship programs, aligning them with both student expectations and industry needs.