Understanding Internship Value from Key Stakeholders’ Perspectives in Tourism Entrepreneurship

Abstract

Internships play a key role in tourism and hospitality education, bridging academic learning and practical
experience. They serve as spaces where academic and professional domains intersect, enabling students to navigate multiple
roles and perspectives. In Estonia, many students already work in the sector and complete internships at their current
workplace. While this provides valuable experiential learning, it also creates challenges for universities in supervision and
coordination. This study explores the value created through such internships, drawing on value proposition theory and a
modified version of Osterwalder’s Business Model Canvas, alongside concepts of boundary crossing and role clarity. Using a
qualitative phenomenological approach, data were collected through focus groups and interviews with students, university
coordinators, and workplace supervisors. Findings show that although internships benefit all stakeholders, students often
face role conflicts as employees, interns, and learners, blurring the educational purpose. Workplace supervisors’ roles are
often unclear, and universities focus mainly on administrative tasks rather than meaningful collaboration with industry
partners. The study emphasizes clearer role definitions, stronger university–employer cooperation, and reflective practices
to enhance learning and organizational development.