ISUFST Interns’ Six-Month Growth Journey in Thailand

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Internships bridge classroom knowledge with real-world experience, allowing students to apply their studies, gain practical skills, and navigate professional settings.

For Dhenz Erica C. Ansino and Dareen Shane D. Rubite, two seniors from the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), a six-month internship in Thailand transformed their personal and professional lives. As Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students, they interned from May 2, 2023, to October 25, 2024, at the prestigious Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Center, a five-star hotel in Thailand’s capital, through ISUFST’s Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP). The experience allowed them to refine their hospitality skills while deeply appreciating Thai culture.

Dhenz, who celebrated her 24th birthday on duty, saw her internship as a means to support her family. She sent PHP 8,000 each month to her younger brother for school expenses, which gave her work a greater sense of purpose. “Every step I took was for my family,” she reflected, underscoring her pride and determination. Likewise, Dareen, who turned 25 in Bangkok, embraced newfound independence. “Living in a foreign country taught me to stand on my own and to focus on the essentials,” she noted.

Their journey was challenging but rewarding, transforming them into confident hospitality professionals. “I learned to handle guest complaints without fear,” Dhenz shared, noting her growth in communication skills. For them, this internship was about more than building resumes; it was about shaping their futures.

A Leap into Hospitality

Upon arrival, the interns felt a mix of excitement, apprehension, and culture shock as Bangkok’s bustling markets and street food contrasted with their quieter hometown lives. “I was overwhelmed by the city’s energy,” Dhenz said. Their roles at Centara Grand required swift adaptation, a skill they mastered early on.

Dhenz worked as a hostess and dining assistant in various hotel outlets, while Dareen transitioned between server and barista at the Mediterranean restaurant. “Flexibility was key in the hospitality industry, and I learned that quickly,” Dareen explained. Their dedication led them to sacrifice attending their graduation ceremonies, yet both graduated with honors, balancing academic excellence and professional growth.

Their friendships with other interns, hotel staff, and managers from diverse backgrounds enriched their experience. “We became like a family,” Dhenz said, recalling shared meals and cultural exchanges that deepened her understanding of Thai hospitality. “The staff were incredibly supportive,” Dareen added. “They taught us nuances of customer service that textbooks never could.”

Facing the realities of working abroad, they found that classroom knowledge was just the start. “The skills I learned on-site surpassed anything from the books and labs,” Dhenz noted. Practical challenges deepened their understanding of the hospitality industry, teaching them to address guest needs and handle complaints professionally.

Financial Insights and Career Prospects

Financially, the internship proved beneficial. They each received PHP 90,000 in allowance, plus free housing and daily buffet meals, which eased their financial burden. “It was a financial blessing,” Dhenz remarked, noting how her savings, including customer tips, helped her manage expenses and support her family.

Budgeting allowed them to explore Thailand’s culture, visiting landmarks like the Wat Arun Temple of Dawn and Pattaya’s beaches. “Experiencing the local culture firsthand was invaluable,” Dhenz reflected.

In terms of career prospects, both received recommendations from hotel staff for jobs in Bangkok and beyond. “The industry is vast, and I’ve learned that my skills can take me places,” Dhenz expressed. The experience gave them confidence in pursuing future employment, whether in Bangkok or back in the Philippines. “I can see myself working in a hotel here or bringing my experience home,” Dareen added.

Their time at Centara Grand, where guests and managers recognized their performance, expanded their professional networks. “We had the chance to meet industry professionals who recognized our potential,” Dareen noted, mentioning offers from five-star hotels like Okada and Astoria. These connections laid a strong foundation for their careers.

Cultural Immersion: A Two-Way Street

Living and working in Thailand immersed Dhenz and Dareen in a tapestry of traditions and social norms. “I learned to greet people using ‘wai’ and understood bowing as a sign of respect,” Dhenz explained, appreciating the nuances of Thai culture despite initial challenges.

Adjusting wasn’t always easy. “There were moments of culture shock,” Dareen admitted, describing Bangkok’s pace and calm driving culture. “Being open-minded helped me appreciate their way of life,” she said.

Their adaptation included learning local customs and avoiding cultural missteps, like understanding the taboo of touching someone’s head. They formed friendships with peers from Thailand, Myanmar, and Nepal, expanding their global network. These interactions not only enriched their personal lives but also gave them insight into the cultural dynamics in hospitality.

Skills Beyond the Classroom

The interns aimed to gain practical skills that would complement their academic knowledge and help them compete globally. Working at Centara Grand pushed them to think critically and act swiftly. As a concierge, Dhenz multitasked to balance guests’ needs and the fast-paced restaurant setting. “I had to manage my time effectively,” she said.

Dareen’s role involved flexibility, moving from server to barista and handling different tasks daily. “It kept me on my toes,” she noted. Real-world applications of their classroom learning underscored a key lesson: formal education could not fully prepare them for the hospitality industry.

Their hands-on experiences taught them skills like conflict resolution. “One day, I handled a situation where a guest was unhappy with their seating,” Dhenz recalled. “I learned to listen and find a solution that made them feel valued.”

Personal Growth and Resilience

Both students experienced profound personal growth. “If it is meant for you, it will be given,” Dhenz said, recounting her optimistic approach, even when faced with a power outage during her interview. Dareen also grew more confident and self-sufficient. “I learned to face my fears and trust my abilities,” she reflected.

Their time abroad taught them not only professional skills but essential life lessons. “Every challenge, whether handling guest complaints or adapting to a new culture, made me stronger,” Dhenz said. The experience molded them into more resilient individuals.

Advice for Future Interns

Dhenz and Dareen’s journey offers advice for future interns. “Believe in yourself,” Dhenz encouraged, highlighting the importance of risk-taking for growth. “Be adaptable and open-minded,” Dareen added. Preparation, including research on Thai culture, helped them adjust quickly.

They also urged parents to support their children’s dreams. “If we can do it, your children can too,” Dhenz stated.

A Grateful Heart: Recognizing Support

The interns expressed gratitude for their families’ support. Dareen acknowledged her parents’ sacrifices, while Dhenz thanked her family, saying, “Their belief in me gave me strength.”

They also recognized the guidance of their ISUFST professors and administrators, including SIAP Coordinator Prof. Peter John Velasco and University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., who helped them prepare for this experience.

Additionally, they thanked those outside ISUFST, such as Adapper Management Consultancy and government agencies, for facilitating the internship. “They created the support we needed to succeed abroad,” Dhenz noted.

A Bright Future Awaits

As Dhenz and Dareen return to the Philippines, they bring memories, knowledge, and experience that will shape their futures. Dr. Siason expressed pride, stating, “We are committed to preparing our students for success in a globalized world. Dhenz and Dareen exemplify resilience and determination.”

Their journey encourages future students to pursue dreams with confidence, proving that international experiences open doors to endless possibilities.