Impact of COVID-19 on tourism and hospitality students’ perceptions of career opportunities and future prospects in India

ABSTRACT This research examines the impact of COVID-19 on Indian tourism and hospitality students’ perception of career opportunities and future prospects. Our findings indicate that perceived industry image influences prospective employees’ career decisions. Students consider the industry to revive itself in the near future and therefore, in spite of the slowdown due to the pandemic, they still preferred to work in the industry. Whilst they acknowledged significant changes in the nature of work, reduction in pay and benefits, and an increasingly competitive job environment, they still expressed unwillingness to work at entry level positions. Specific to the pandemic, students anticipated fewer job openings, reduced job security, higher terminations during probation period and slim chances of promotions. Pursuing higher studies in management (MBA) was regarded as the most viable alternate option during the pandemic.