An important part of the career-based training at SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern is the advanced specialist internships and management experience in the professional world, which are completed between the academic semesters. In this way, the students not only deepen their knowledge, but also gain valuable professional experience, which is one of the most important criteria for companies when selecting their employees.
What an international internship can look like is shown in the video by SHL student Linus. He completed his F&B internship in Mexico City and shares how diverse an experience abroad is – broadening perspectives and leaving a lasting impact on personal growth.
Get to know SHL's study programmes
Our students are supported by us in many ways on their journey towards finding the right internship placement – however, the final decision on where they wish to experience everyday professional life at first hand rests with them.
Whether in Switzerland, Spain, the USA or the Philippines – the practice-oriented programmes «Dipl. Hotelier(e)-Gastronom(in) HF» and «Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management» open up global opportunities.
The graphic shows a selection of the destinations where our students have already completed internships.
Internships offer real life experience and insights into a professional environment.
Internships are an excellent opportunity to learn more about oneself, one’s strengths and talents, and to become aware of one’s goals and how to achieve them in the best possible way.
Internships allow students to make new contacts and expand their professional network.
To demonstrate their talents, commitment and value to potential employers.
«Working experience» is one of the most important criteria for companies when it comes to choosing employees. 67 % of employers want applicants to be familiar with their everyday work.
Of course!
Where to?The possibilities are endless! As a little food for thought: Every year, the Condé Nast Traveler lists the Best Hotels in the world.
What's more: The cooperation with the Movetia Foundation allows SHL to give grants to students who are completing an internship or leadership activity abroad.
In Switzerland, the Federal Collective Labour Agreement (L-GAV) stipulates minimum salary for the catering and hotel industries.Interns at hotel management schools earn at least CHF 2,390 per month (gross salary | as of 1 January 2026).
Once abroad, the internship income depends on various criteria and is not linked to Swiss law.
Interesting internship positions and exciting job opportunities are published on the SHL Job Portal – exclusively for SHL students and alumni. Whether it's your first internship, international experience, or direct entry into the profession – the job portal connects you with strong partners from the hospitality industry.
All offers are tailored to the SHL community: relevant, high-quality, and regularly updated. Don't just find jobs – find your next opportunity.
At the SHL career days, we bring together what belongs together:Companies looking for suitable employees and students looking for an exciting challenge.
We are convinced that career development services are an indispensable element for the overall success and experience of our students.Our dedicated internship and career team supports our students with access to a wide and diverse range of internships and future career opportunities.
In the interview, she talks about her decision to pursue a kitchen internship, the challenges of a fast-paced culinary environment, and the experiences that have shaped her the most so far.
Read the interview