Students have the chance to go beyond traditional coursework through hands-on experiences like local tours, networking events and exclusive program excursions. These opportunities allow students to gain real-world insights, practice networking and deepen their understanding of hospitality operations.
Hospitality Tours
Get the chance to step outside the classroom and into the heart of Columbus’ hospitality scene. These tours provide a hands-on look at industry operations, connecting course content to real-world experiences. From event venues to restaurants and hotels, students gain valuable insights into planning, service, and management—bringing their studies to life.
Hospitality Hop
This event, originally created by students in the Intro to Event Planning class in 2022, offers a fun and educational way to explore a range of hospitality locations.
Designed to showcase different aspects of hospitality the event provides a behind-the-scenes look at how businesses create exceptional guest experiences.
With structured site visits and guided discussions, the Hospitality Hop offers a unique opportunity to connect with professionals, ask questions, and gain valuable industry knowledge in a dynamic, interactive setting.
Wendy’s HQ Tour
Students got an inside look at Wendy’s Global Headquarters, exploring how innovation, quality, and customer experience come together.
The day kicked off with a tour of the DRSC, where collaboration and creativity shape the brand. A Q&A with company leaders gave students the chance to ask about career paths, menu development, and Wendy’s evolution.
A highlight? Trying the new Thin Mints Frosty—just a week after its launch! The tour wrapped up in the Test Kitchen, where Wendy’s brings new ideas to life.
Classroom Tours
Many Hospitality Management courses include classroom trips to local Columbus businesses. These visits offer students the opportunity to engage directly with industry professionals, learn about industry operations, and see classroom concepts come to life in real-world settings.
Networking Events
HM Alumni & Friends Speed Networking connects Hospitality Management students with industry professionals, helping them explore career paths, build connections, and practice networking skills. Through quick, 1:1 conversation, students can gain valuable advice, meet program partners and alumni, and potentially secure job or internship opportunities.
Program Excursions
Gain real-world hospitality experience through immersive programs in top destinations like Paris, New York City, and Chicago. From global tourism to industry conferences and large-scale events, these opportunities connect classroom learning with hands-on practice.
Paris, France
The Hospitality, Tourism, and Gastronomy in Paris program explores hospitality in Europe’s top tourist destination. Through hands-on experiences and behind-the-scenes access to Paris’ most popular sites, students explore key areas like culinary arts, the entertainment industry, and luxury tourism. This study abroad opportunity connects course knowledge with real-world practice while encouraging students to explore social justice, identity, and globalization in a new cultural context.
NYC, New York
Boutique Design New York Conference
Travel to New York City to attend the Boutique Design New York (BDNY) Conference. Explore innovative enhancements to hospitality spaces, connect with industry professionals, and experience cutting-edge design trends in the heart of the nation’s top tourist destination.
Chicago, Illinois
National Restaurant Association Show
Attend the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago. Discover restaurant and food service trends, taste new innovations, see cutting-edge equipment, and connect with top professionals shaping the future of food and hospitality.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Lucas Oil Stadium with SodexoLive!
Shadow a SodexoLive! department manager during a NFL Colts game. Work alongside departments such as Culinary, Premium Services, Concessions, IT, Finance, Warehouse, Banquets, and Human Resources. Gain exclusive knowledge and experience in large-scale event operations.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference
Explore the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) in Charlotte. Learn about the latest technology trends, best practices, and market solutions for the hospitality industry.
