IMPACT OF TRAINING AND SEMINARS OF BSHM GRADUATES STUDENTS IN BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

The Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) program is meticulously designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the hospitality industry. Central to this program are training sessions and seminars that enhance competencies such as decision-making, problem-solving, and self-confidence, thereby fostering both personal and professional growth. In this study, a quantitative research design was implemented to assess the career success of Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) graduates from the 2018–2023 cohorts. Purposive sampling, a non-probability sampling technique, was employed to select participants based on specific characteristics relevant to the research objectives. This method ensures that the sample comprises individuals who can provide pertinent information, thereby enhancing the study's effectiveness. Sampling Technique: Purposive sampling was utilized to specifically target BSHM graduates from the 2018–2023 batches, ensuring that respondents possess the necessary background to provide valuable insights into their career trajectories post-graduation.​  Data Collection Instrument: An online survey served as the primary data collection tool. Online surveys are structured questionnaires distributed via the internet, allowing respondents to complete them at their convenience. This method is efficient for reaching a dispersed population and facilitates timely data collection.​  Sample Size: The study targeted fifty (50) BSHM graduates from the specified cohorts. This sample size was deemed sufficient to provide meaningful data while maintaining manageability in terms of data analysis. The findings offer a detailed overview of the demographic and employment characteristics of Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) graduates from the 2018–2023 cohorts:​  Demographic Profile:  Gender Distribution: The cohort consists of 26 male and 24 female graduates, indicating a near-equal gender representation.​  Age Distribution: The majority of male graduates are aged between 22 and 24, while most female graduates fall within the 25 to 27 age bracket.​  Employment Profile:  Occupational Roles:  A significant portion, 40% of the graduates, have secured positions as Food and Beverage Managers or Servers.​ Roles such as Front Desk Receptionists and Chefs each account for 12% of the employment distribution.​ Relevance to Degree: The majority of respondents indicated that their current employment aligns closely with their bachelor's degree in hospitality management.​  These findings align with trends observed in similar studies:​  A tracer study on the employability of BSHM graduates from Palawan State University Brooke's Point Campus revealed that most graduates are employed in roles relevant to their field of study, particularly within the hospitality industry. ​  Research on BSHRM graduates from Guimaras State College indicated that a significant portion of graduates secured employment in roles related to their field of study, with many obtaining positions within months after graduation. ​   These parallels underscore the alignment between academic training in hospitality management and employment opportunities within the industry, particularly in food and beverage roles. The researcher's recommendations emphasize the importance of active participation in school-provided activities, training, and seminars for Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students to enhance their knowledge and skills. Additionally, it is advised that school administrations develop programs offering financial support to enable students to compete effectively in the hospitality industry.