Advisor Resources

Help Your Students Launch Their Careers with the Southern Hospitality Internship Program (S.H.I.P.)

Give your students access to meaningful, paid internships that lead to skills, connections, and full-time job offers.
The Southern Hospitality Internship Program partners with top employers across the Great Smoky Mountains region to place students in career-building roles that go far beyond the typical internship experience.

What S.H.I.P. Has to Offer

We partner with a growing nationwide network of over 1,000 colleges and universities, including direct collaboration with students from more than 230 institutions who have participated in our program.

  • Real Experience: Interns work 32–40 hours/week in hands-on, paid roles
  • Flexible Duration: Internships typically last 14 weeks but can be customized
  • Leadership Track: Interns rotate across departments and gain three or more marketable skills
  • Full-Time Potential: Over 30 students have transitioned into full-time roles through the program
  • Seasonal Options: Internships available in Summer, Spring, and Fall
  • Support System: Students receive guidance from SHIP staff before, during, and after the internship

What Students Receive

  • Competitive Pay: Interns are paid at average market rates
  • Housing Support: Help finding or securing housing near their work site
  • Professional Development: Access to Hospitality Insights networking and resume building events

Proven Success

  • Over 400+ interns hired to date
  • Candidates placed in hospitality, management, marketing, culinary arts, HR, accounting, biology, and many more
  • Over 30 interns have successfully completed their internships before moving into full-time roles with the same organization

How You Can Help

Advisors play a key role in helping students find the right opportunities.
By referring students to SHIP, you’re connecting them to:

  • Paid, hands-on internships in a scenic and welcoming region
  • Structured leadership development experiences
  • Potential pathways to full-time careers

Want to Learn More?

We’d love to connect with your department, participate in career fairs, or present directly to students.
Contact us today to learn how SHIP can support your advising efforts and help your students take the next step in their career journey.