Student Participation in International Cultural Exchange Program in United States of America

Arellano University School of Hospitality and Tourism Management provides students with meaningful global learning experiences through its International Cultural Exchange Program in the United States of America which started in 2008 through the partnership between Arellano University and First Place Inc. (FPI). In this program, students participate in cultural exchange activities through immersion in real-world hospitality and tourism-related businesses abroad, particularly in recreational businesses such as resorts, hotels and theme parks, among others. These experiences enable them to develop technical skills, professionalism, adaptability and intercultural communication. More importantly, students gain a deeper understanding of international hospitality and tourism standards as well as relevant exposure to diverse cultural practices that prepare them for future global careers. Students are able to gain valuable industry immersive experience through this program while learning the value of independence, as well as having sense of responsibility and resilience amidst a foreign environment.

Over the years, there has seen a steady growth in student participation in the abovementioned program. In 2015, only two (2) students were able to participate. This number increased significantly in 2018, with eighteen (18) students deployed in various states in America, followed by seven (7) students in 2019. Despite challenges brought by global disruptions in succeeding years, the program gradually regained momentum, recording three (3) participating students in 2023 and sixteen (16) students in 2024. In 2025, eight (8) students joined the program, while currently, there are seven (7) students deployed in different hospitality and tourism-related businesses in different states in America to engage in this cultural exchange program.

These numbers reflect not only the increasing interest of students in international exposure but also the university’s continued efforts to strengthen global linkages and experiential learning opportunities. Through this cultural exchange program, students are able to broaden their perspectives, enhance their confidence and prepare themselves to meet the demands of the global hospitality and tourism industry.

Overall, the international mobility initiatives of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management continue to play a vital role in shaping students into globally competitive, culturally sensitive, and industry-ready professionals who can excel in both local and international hospitality and tourism environments.

US Cultural Exchange Program Participants