Hospitality Undergraduate Students' Career Choices and Factors Influencing Commitment to the Profession

Abstract

Abstract Given the high turnover rates in the hospitality industry, there is a need to better understand our potential employees - hospitality undergraduate students and their career expectations. This study collected data from 360 hospitality undergraduate students and identified factors that impact their career choices and commitment to the profession. Regression analysis revealed four variables (gender, current employment status, career decision self-efficacy, and career outcome expectation) as strong indicators in predicting hospitality graduates' retention in the industry. Results also indicated that hospitality students who believed they have compatible competence skills and relevant work experiences were more committed to their career choices.