In November 2025, students from Northwestern University, the Philippines joined the Vietnam Study Trip and Hospitality Internship Program, hosted by SBS. The program combined academic learning, cultural immersion, and hands-on hospitality training across Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc Island, preparing students for successful careers in the global hospitality industry.
Academic & Cultural Immersion in Ho Chi Minh City
The program began in Ho Chi Minh City, where SBS provided comprehensive onboarding and orientation. Students attended SBS-led classes on Sustainable Hospitality Practices, alongside Vietnamese language and culture workshops, strengthening both professional knowledge and cross-cultural awareness.
An SBS-curated city tour covered major landmarks, including the Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street, followed by an industry visit to Mường Thanh Luxury Saigon Hotel to observe real-world hotel operations.
Luxury Hospitality Internship in Phu Quoc
Students then continued their journey to Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam’s premier resort destination, for professional immersion coordinated by SBS. Activities included orientation at Regent Phu Quoc, a chef-led culinary experience, a problem-solving workshop, and a visit to Hotel Academy Phu Quoc.
After completing SBS-hosted online classes on Managing the Customer Experience, students officially began their hospitality internships at Regent Phu Quoc on December 2, 2025, gaining hands-on experience in a world-class luxury hotel environment.
What the Students Say
“My internship at Regent Phu Quoc allowed me to apply what we learned in class to real guest interactions. I gained confidence, professionalism, and a deeper understanding of luxury service.”
— Kassandra Nicole Guillermo Cruz, Northwestern University
“Working in an international hotel helped me improve my communication skills and adapt to a multicultural workplace. This experience truly prepared me for a global hospitality career.”
— Grospy Dan II Rosales Garma, Northwestern University
“The mentorship and support from SBS made a huge difference. I felt guided throughout my internship, and the hands-on experience at Regent Phu Quoc was unforgettable.”
— Kendrick Chester Pablo, Northwestern University
Continuous SBS Mentorship
Throughout the internship period, SBS provided ongoing academic and professional support through online mentor meetings, ensuring students’ work aligned with their academic majors and industry expectations.
Shaping Future Hospitality Leaders
This Vietnam study trip and hospitality internship program, hosted by SBS, delivered a high-impact international learning experience. By combining academic instruction, cultural immersion, and luxury hotel internships in Phu Quoc, the program empowered Northwestern University students with the skills, confidence, and global mindset needed to thrive in the international hospitality and tourism industry.
