Hundreds of University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa business and travel industry management students are graduating with job offers in hand, thanks to Shidler College of Business’ robust internship and career development programs.
The Internship and Career Development Office at Shidler has successfully placed approximately 450 students in local, national and international positions. Approximately 91% of Shidler students are fully employed or enrolled in advanced degree programs, with 89% working in fields directly related to their major three months after graduating.
Students enrolled at the School of Travel Industry Management (TIM), which rejoined Shidler College in 2019, are required to complete two internships totaling 400 hours, ensuring that graduates enter the workforce with strong résumés, industry experience and robust professional networks. This real-world experience lays the foundation for a successful career launch in a competitive job market. On average, 40% of TIM students secure full-time job offers before graduation.
Building confidence, gaining clarity
Students consistently report that internships are among the most impactful parts of their academic journey, and national research indicates that having a high-quality internship significantly reduces graduates’ underemployment. These experiences allow them to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, build confidence and gain clarity about their career goals. Many said the internships helped them discover new passions, refine their skill sets and secure full-time positions.
“Employers value our interns for their professionalism, preparedness and eagerness to learn,” said Vance Roley, dean and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management. “They frequently note that our students arrive with a strong foundation in teamwork and business fundamentals and are ready to contribute meaningfully to projects. For many employers, internships also serve as a pipeline for future hires, with several offering full-time roles to their interns upon graduation.”
Early opportunities for experience
Shidler’s career services team recommends that students begin to explore their career options early, and that they take advantage of the college’s many industry-facing activities, such as the biannual Shidler Career Expo.
Rick Varley, Director of Internships and Career Development, noted, “Most importantly, treat every internship as a learning experience—not just a job. Ask questions, build relationships and reflect on what you enjoy.”
Internship placements directly support Hawaiʻi’s workforce by preparing students to contribute immediately and effectively in their fields. Most TIM graduates remain in Hawaiʻi after graduation, filling local talent pipelines with well-trained professionals. Frequent interaction with local industry leaders, such as annual mentoring events including Business Night and Na Kukui Netlinks, along with strong partnerships with employers ensure that student preparation is responsive to workforce needs.
This initiative supports a vibrant, sustainable economy in the state, and is aligned with UH’s workforce development efforts, one of the core pillars of the UH System Strategic Plan.
