Abstract

Off-campus educational activities combine experiential learning with academic instruction and may provide knowledge and skills that are difficult to develop fully in the classroom. This study examined the influence of off-campus activities on the career preparedness of tourism graduates, including perceived differences according to age, sex, occupation, and year of graduation. The study used a descriptive quantitative design and a survey questionnaire. Snowball sampling was used to recruit fifty (50) Bestlink College of the Philippines alumni who graduated in 2022 or 2023 and were employed in the tourism industry. Most respondents were female, aged 20–25 years, and employed as casino dealers. Equal numbers graduated in 2022 and 2023, and more respondents had participated in SOLAS training than in a campus tour. Respondents reported that off-campus activities strengthened their understanding of the tourism industry by exposing them to workplace situations and allowing them to apply classroom learning. The study reported a significant relationship between participation in off-campus activities and respondents’ understanding of the tourism industry. Challenges included late bus departures and problems with accommodation and food. The study recommended additional off-campus activities aligned with students’ areas of specialization, careful scheduling and planning, and measures to protect participant welfare.