Continuing to prove that the culture of excellence knows no borders, from the recent intercultural immersion programs encouraged by the University of Baguio in cultural sensitivity and global competency, students from the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM) showcased their honed skills during their hospitality internship at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, a luxury resort located in Florida, USA, known for high standards of hospitality and a renowned badge of service excellence.
In an exclusive partnership endorsed and guided by the J1 Visa program of ZIP Travel Philippines Inc., giving an opportunity to student interns from differing universities in the Philippines (including UB) and in the Western part of the world, with the latest batch of interns from the institution concluding the program and being recognized for their technical adaptability, professional ethics, and skills.
Beyond skill nourishment and cultivation through various hands-on training and practices, the internship also fostered strong personal and professional growth among the students and other notable interns present during their stay at Amelia Island. Working alongside professionals from North and South America, Indonesia, Africa, India, Türkiye, and other countries developed the students’ cross-cultural fluency as they navigated a diverse, multicultural workforce.
Alt Text: UB SIHTM Students during their international immersion at the Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island, Florida
The exposure allowed the students to improve their communication skills, cultural awareness, and adaptability while collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, UB SIHTM students were also recognized for their heart for service, as they trailblaze within the workforce that thrives and fosters in the high-value sustainability metric observed in the tourism sector.
Student interns Mary Angel Guarin and Allen John Cruz received recognition under the Five-Star Nomination category, awarded to individuals who consistently exceed expectations and embody the service values of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
Excellence in Academic Internship and Hands-On Practice
During one of the resort’s Master of the Craft mixology competitions, six (6) UB-SIHTM culinary interns were given an open card to gladly participate in the competition. As an intern, Ms. Dona Fe Lopez captured first place under the Pastry Category and was later selected to represent the pastry team of The Ritz‑Carlton, Amelia Island, in another culinary competition. Meanwhile, another intern from the university, Mr. Francis Miguel Sayaboc, secured second place in the Savory Category, demonstrating strong culinary technique and creativity.
As the bearing continued to be secured, multiple SIHTM students earned a Diamond card, indicating a peer recognition given to employees who demonstrate exceptional teamwork and are invaluable teammates. As the students return to the Philippines, they carry more academic recognition but also a sense of enhanced technical expertise, cultural awareness, and professional maturity. Equipped with these experiences, these experiences are a testament to the institution’s endeavor of preparing young professionals to contribute to the global hospitality industry while upholding the standards of excellence instilled by their tenure and stay within their respective academic departments.
Alt Text: Mr. Francis Miguel Sayaboc (left) and Ms. Dona Fe Lopez (right) on their esteemed achievements during their international immersion at the Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island, Florida
As the ceiling for academic expression has been given importance, the cross-cultural internship proved to be a success in various metrics that contribute to the curation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) that the university continuously achieves, one global visit at a time.
- SDG 4: Quality Education, by equipping the students with technical skills for the global market
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, in expressing global competency for future economic growth and development
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by bridging the gap between local talent and global opportunity
During the farewell event and recognition ceremony attended by the interns and members of the leadership team, the student delegates were commended for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication. Given by the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island property general manager, Mr. Greg Cook. Handing over the exemplary salutations to the interns for their success in the international internship program. Noting that the performance reinforced the value of the partnership between the university and The Ritz‑Carlton, Amelia Island, and supported the continuation of the program for future interns.
Living and working in the United States also broadened the students’ global perspective. Adjusting to a new environment required independence, resilience, and discipline. UB affirms that the threshold of academic and organizational competence is nurtured to manage professional responsibilities and navigate life abroad. Giving great importance to the experience to strengthen the confidence and ability to operate in an international setting.
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Written by: Allen John Cruz & Preston Earl Tumapang
Article Enhancement by: Gabriel Madriaga
