Abstract
This tracer study examined the current career status of Hospitality Management graduates from Bestlink College of the Philippines, Batch 2023–2024. It assessed whether 100 of the 365 graduates had obtained employment, whether their work aligned with their field of study, and what challenges they encountered when entering the competitive hospitality industry. The findings were intended to inform curriculum development and career-guidance initiatives. The study used a descriptive research design. One hundred (100) Hospitality Management graduates were selected through snowball sampling. Data were gathered on employment status, job positions, industry sectors, challenges, strategies, and current career status. Among the 100 participating graduates, 70% were employed, 20% were unemployed, and 10% were self-employed. The study reported that 65% entered the accommodation sector, citing ease of entry. The findings were used to identify career trends and implications for curriculum development and career guidance. The accommodation sector was described as a common entry point for graduates. Respondents also faced competition and difficulty meeting industry expectations. The study recommended stronger industry partnerships, skills training, and career guidance to support employability and career progression. Because snowball sampling covered 100 of 365 graduates, the results should not be treated as representative of the entire graduating cohort without further evidence.
Keywords: employability, tracer study, hospitality management graduates, career status, graduate employment, career alignment
