York College Hospitality and Tourism Students to Intern in Italy This Summer
The Department of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management introduces a work-abroad opportunity in Lake Como, a world-class, star-studded travel destination.
For centuries, celebrities, global travelers, and high-end clientele from around the world have come to Lake Como, Italy, to soak in the serenity of the surrounding mountain landscapes and charming villages. This Lombardy paradise is home to world-renowned luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a culture steeped in hospitality.
This summer, it will be a home away from home for three York College of Pennsylvania students.
Under the guidance of Joseph Scarcelli, Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management, the College will offer an annual summer work-abroad opportunity for Hospitality and Tourism Management students to gain hands-on experience in Lake Como’s luxury hotels. Students will work for 10 weeks, primarily in front-desk positions, earning internship credit while immersing themselves in Italian culture and hospitality.
A life-changing experience
The Lake Como program resulted from connections that Dr. Scarcelli spent years developing. It will give students experience at five-star, independent properties as they connect with patrons from around the globe, learn international hospitality operations, and serve side by side with Italian professionals in the industry.
While these front-desk and front-office positions are unpaid because of European visa restrictions, the students will receive free room and board during their stay.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity; it’s life-changing,” Dr. Scarcelli says. “For hospitality professionals, understanding cultural differences is key. Luxury service is defined by the person receiving it. While in the U.S. we generally perceive luxury as large rooms and TVs, European and other high-end international guests interpret it differently. Understanding the needs and desires of guests from diverse cultures is the foundation of successful hospitality professionals. Even if you spend your entire career working in Harrisburg, half the people you serve will likely come from cultures that aren’t your own. If you want to provide top-notch experiences, you have to anticipate the needs of others.”
Participants will arrive in Italy a week before the start of their internships to become acclimated to the environment. They will study public transportation systems, adjust to cultural differences, and participate in excursions organized by a university in Como. Outside their work schedule, they will have time to explore, travel, and make the most of their summer abroad.
Who may apply?
This opportunity is open exclusively to experienced Hospitality and Tourism Management majors who have demonstrated professionalism and a readiness for international work. Typical participants are juniors or seniors who have completed at least two internships and have a solid foundation in hotel operations. There’s a rigorous application process, including a written portion and one-on-one interviews.
“I set a high bar for this program,” Dr. Scarcelli says.
Students interested in joining the summer 2026 Lake Como program should start planning now. Dr. Scarcelli will recruit for next year’s internships in April.
York College offers a range of other international experiences, including short-term travel programs and semester-long study opportunities in Spain, Italy, and Austria. Dr. Scarcelli encourages students to take advantage of those programs to build their confidence and global perspective before applying for the Lake Como program.
“The act of getting out of your bubble and comfort zone does wonders for broadening your view of the world and your maturity,” says Dr. Scarcelli. “You’ve got to get out there and see things from a different perspective, find a culture that’s different from yours, and dive in.”
