How to Get a U.S. Marriott Internship in Hospitality with a J-1 Visa

Marriott International is a hotel brand that has skyrocketed in brand value and number of properties within the last decade, expanding to over 8,000 properties in 2023. With the company’s increased popularity, name recognition, and sheer quantity, it’s a no-brainer that aspiring students in the hospitality industry would have a Marriott internship at the top of their application list. 

In this article, we’ll be covering how you can get your dream Marriott internship in the U.S. with a J-1 visa, answering your questions on: 

1. What are hospitality internships? 
2. Where do I find Marriott internships? 
3. What are the benefits of Marriott internships in the U.S.? 
4. How do I get an American Marriott internship with a J-1 Visa? 

From researching hospitality opportunities to ensuring every part of your visa application is secure, navigating the Marriott internship process can feel overwhelming and inundating with information. At Intrax Global Internships, our mission is to help students like you be able to gain international work experience to connect people and cultures, inspire personal growth, and prepare individuals to succeed as global citizens. 

As a U.S. Department of State designated J-1 Visa sponsor, we simplify the legalities across borders and provide ongoing support to students throughout the program. That means that we’re here to fully support your Hyatt internship application process, so that you can launch your global career in hospitality and hotel management. 

What Are Hospitality Internships? 

Hospitality internships serve as a stepping stone for those who wish to establish a career in the hospitality industry. These internships can help you gain crucial experience and a glimpse of the daily operations at hotels, resorts, restaurants, and event management companies. 

Internship opportunities in hospitality are typically available to students who are enrolled in relevant degree programs, such as hospitality management, hotel administration, tourism management, or related fields. Some internships may also be open to recent graduates or individuals seeking to transition into the industry.

Because hospitality is such a broad sector, spanning from hotels to resorts and tourist organizations, you should double check internship opportunities and which specific industries they are associated with. Internship durations can also vary widely depending on the program and organization, so be aware of how this can affect your schedule and traveling if you want to intern in the U.S. 

Types of Hospitality Internships 

Hospitality internships offer comprehensive training and exposure to the industry, providing a robust foundation for students interested in pursuing a career in hospitality. Interns gain both technical and soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are crucial in the hospitality industry. 

Not all hospitality internships, however, are alike. Here are a few types of hospitality internships that are more specific and may appeal to students who want to gain experience in a specialized field within the hospitality industry: 

1. Front Office Operations: You’ll be focusing on guest services and the management of a hotel’s reception area. Interns are involved in reservations, check-ins and check-outs, guest communications, and concierge services. In this role, you’ll learn how to use hotel reservation and management software, handle customer service issues, and provide an excellent guest experience. 
2. Event Planner: Interns or trainees in event planning work closely with clients to organize events ranging from conferences and business meetings to weddings and social gatherings. You’ll learn to coordinate all aspects of events, including budgeting, venue selection, catering, decoration, and logistics. You’ll also develop effective communication, creativity, and strong organizational skills. 
3. Culinary Intern or Trainee: Culinary internships provide hands-on experience in a professional kitchen, offering exposure to various culinary techniques and cuisines. You’ll assist in meal preparation, learn about ingredient selection and kitchen safety, and gain insights into menu planning and food costing. This type of internship is great for aspiring chefs looking to enhance their culinary skills and understanding of the gastronomic aspect of hospitality.
4. Food and Beverage Intern or Trainee: This internship focuses on the operation of dining services within a hospitality setting. You’ll learn about food service management, including ordering and inventory, managing staff, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and enhancing customer service. It's an excellent training ground for those interested in a career in restaurant management or upscale dining services.
5. Hotel Engineering: Hotel engineering interns are involved in the maintenance, repair, and overall management of hotel facilities. This includes electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems, and general property upkeep. You’ll learn how to ensure that all hotel facilities are in working order to provide guests with a comfortable and safe stay. You’ll also gain experience in preventive maintenance and energy management.
6. Catering and Conference Services: Internships in catering and conference services involve planning and executing catering for events and managing conference facilities. You’ll learn to handle event logistics, coordinate with food and beverage teams, setup and breakdown of events, and client interaction to ensure specific requirements are met. 

No matter which type of internship you choose to pursue, each of them provide great experience (and a resume boost!) so you can learn more about hospitality and how you want to navigate your career within this massive industry. 

Marriott Internships

Marriott is an empire in the hospitality industry. Because of this, you’ll most likely be able to find openings for any of the internship types we listed above. There are various ways that Marriott hires new talent. Internship programs include: 

1. Hotel Internship Program
2. HQ Fellowship/Internship Program

Post-graduate opportunities include: 

1. Voyage Leadership Development Program
2. HQ Fellowship / Internship Program
3. Direct Placement Opportunities 
4. Apprenticeships 

This means that if you are a student looking for a Marriott internship, you will only qualify for the Hotel Internship Program or HQ Fellowship/Internship Program. By being aware of which programs are applicable to your goals and prerequisites, you can save those hours and use them to write a strong application instead. 

Marriott Hotel Internship Program 

The Marriott Hotel Internship Program is meant for undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in launching their career in hospitality. The program lasts for at least 10 weeks, during which interns are placed in a Marriott managed hotel to gain firsthand experience in hotel operations. This duration allows interns sufficient time to understand and engage deeply with the various aspects of hotel management​. 

Rather than focusing on one speciality, the Marriott Hotel Internship Program covers various operational areas, including but not limited to front office operations, food and beverage management, event planning, and room service. This broad exposure is designed to help interns identify their areas of interest and expertise within the hospitality industry​.

Interns receive practical training across different departments within the hotel. This hands-on approach is intended to build upon the theoretical knowledge gained in classrooms, providing a real-world context and helping interns understand the operational intricacies of a large hospitality business. 

Interns also participate in Marriott’s culture and business practices through immersive experiences. They have opportunities to work with and learn from experienced professionals in the industry, which is invaluable for professional development​ and building relationships early on in your career. 

HQ Fellowship/Internship Program

The Marriott HQ Fellowship/Internship Program is a unique opportunity primarily for undergraduate and graduate students interested in exploring corporate roles within the hospitality industry. The program is mainly located in Bethesda, Maryland–Marriott’s headquarters–though it is sometimes offered in other regional locations. 

Some program features include: 

• Curated Learning Paths: The program includes structured learning paths that are tailored to the interns' career interests, providing them with in-depth knowledge and skills in specific areas of Marriott’s corporate operations.
• Career Growth and Development: Interns receive mentorship and have access to professional development sessions that enhance their career readiness and potential for advancement within the company.
• Informative Programming: Participants engage in sessions that expose them to real business challenges and allow them to interact with senior executives. This component is designed to give interns a comprehensive understanding of the strategic challenges and opportunities in the hospitality industry.
• Networking Opportunities: The program offers extensive networking opportunities, enabling interns to connect with peers and leaders across the organization. This can be pivotal for future career opportunities within Marriott or the broader hospitality sector​. 

The internship typically begins in the summer, with the exact start dates aligning with academic calendars. However, you should double check on exact dates, so you can plan ahead on flights, housing, and other logistics of traveling and interning globally. 

Where Can You Find Hospitality Opportunities like Marriott Internships? 

Deciding you want to spend your summer abroad completing a hospitality internship is one thing. But knowing where to find these opportunities and how to apply to international internships is a whole other ballgame. To start off, here are some ways you can start your search, though keep in mind that none of these options may be dedicated towards J-1 visa holders: 

1. School Career Services: Most universities offer career services to their students, providing resources such as internship postings, career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events. These services often have connections with hospitality companies and can help direct students to relevant opportunities.
2. Hospitality Job Boards: There are several job boards and websites dedicated specifically to careers in hospitality. You can also directly look at company job boards (like Marriott’s) to see all available internship opportunities. However, you should keep in mind that they may list jobs that are not available to international students, or have additional requirements that you may not catch until later on the application process. 
3. Professional Associations: Joining professional associations like the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) or the National Restaurant Association can provide access to exclusive job boards, industry news, networking events, and internship opportunities. However, these can come at a cost and may not be the most effective tools for finding job postings, especially as international students. 
4. Networking: There’s a reason why people say connections are important. Networking, whether it’s through using platforms like LinkedIn or attending conferences and events, can be a great way to get noticed by industry professionals, earn references, and get your foot in the door way easier. However, keep in mind that this may be more helpful for post-grads searching for full-time jobs rather than internship seekers. 

Why J-1 Visa Sponsor Organizations Are Especially Effective 

A J-1 visa sponsor helps prospective international candidates obtain their J-1 visas so they can travel to the U.S. for an Exchange Visitor Program. J-1 sponsors can help in:

• Helping find paid internships abroad in hospitality
• Screening participants
• Selecting participants
• Monitoring participants throughout their stay in the U.S.
• Explaining to participants how the program works

You can find an official list of approved J-1 visa sponsors online. Or, you can save yourself some hours by working with us, since Global Internships has been a designated U.S. J-1 visa sponsor for over four decades. 

We can connect you with luxury hotels with our Premium Hospitality Internship, allowing you to gain experience working at ​​the world’s leading luxury hotels while making friends and connections in the United States.   

You can look through our list of available hospitality internships to find available opportunities or contact us if you have more questions. 

The Benefits of Working at Marriott US Locations 

Getting an internship in the hospitality industry is competitive and puts you at an immediate advantage in your career. These benefits will be exponentially boosted as you work at coveted companies such as Marriott International. Here are some additional benefits you may experience from your Marriott internship: 

1. Exploring New Cities: Interning in another country provides a unique opportunity to experience living in new cities and environments. This aspect of the internship is particularly beneficial for personal growth and understanding diverse market dynamics within the hospitality industry. Each location offers different challenges and opportunities, enriching your understanding of regional hospitality trends and customer preferences.
2. Maryland HQ: Though Marriott has locations around the globe, their headquarters are in Maryland, a state in the U.S. The HQ serves as a central hub for its vast operations, which include 92 corporate locations across the United States. Interns have the opportunity to interact with a wide range of departments and professionals, gaining insights from leaders in the industry. 
3. Working at a Dominant U.S. Hotel Chain: Marriott is a leading player in the U.S. hospitality market, operating numerous brands and properties across the country. Interning with such a dominant chain offers significant advantages, such as access to best practices in hotel management, exposure to high standards of customer service, and the use of cutting-edge technology in hospitality management.
4. Quicker Conversion to High Paying Job Offers: The experience gained during an internship at Marriott is highly regarded in the hospitality industry and beyond. Interns often receive comprehensive training and are involved in substantial projects that provide practical skills and professional competencies. This real-world experience is attractive to potential employers and can lead to quicker and more lucrative job offers post-internship.
5. Possibility to Work at Marriott Full-Time: Though not guaranteed, interns at Marriott may have the opportunity to join the company in a full-time capacity upon completion of their internship. Marriott values the development of its interns and often provides career pathways within the company. If you do well during your summer, have great performance reviews, and maintain good relationships with your managers, the chances of getting a return offer will increase. 

Whether you decide to remain in Marriott or choose another organization like Hyatt, or choose to be in hospitality or a completely different industry, completing an internship at prestigious hotel conglomerates like Marriott can significantly and positively impact your career in both the short and long run. 

How to Get a Marriott Internship with the J-1 Visa 

In an ideal world, getting a Marriott internship in the U.S. would be as simple as clicking the “Submit Now” button after uploading your cover letter and resume. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy. As an international student, you are required to be approved for a J-1 visa, and the application has lots of steps, documents, and specific processes you need to check off if you want to work at the Maryland HQ office.  

We’ll cover the basics ins and outs of the J-1 visa process in this section, but you can also check out our ultimate guide on the J-1 visa if you want to develop a deeper understanding. 

There are specific eligibility requirements if you are applying for a J-1 internship in hospitality. These include: 

• Internships must be in Hospitality Operations, Hospitality Management, or Gastronomy and correspond to your field of study.
• Must be 18 years old or older.
• Be a current full-time student and have completed at least 2 semesters at a post-secondary academic institution OR be a recent graduate able to start an internship program within 12 months of graduation date. 
• Education must be obtained outside of the U.S. 
• Speak English at an advanced level.

Marriott may have an additional set of eligibility requirements, so it’s important to make sure that you’re sending job applications over to companies that are qualified to hire J-1 visa holders. If you match all eligibility requirements, then you can go ahead and start your application for the J-1 visa.

Documents and Fees 

For J-1 Visa Sponsorship, submit an application detailing personal and host organization information, along with necessary documents including  basic information about yourself and your host company, including addresses, phone numbers, and program dates.

Afterwards, you will need to provide additional documentation, including proof of English proficiency, diploma/work experience proof, resumé/CV, and a copy of your passport's biographical page. Keep in mind that there will be payments associated with visa interviews and J-1 visa sponsorship. You can use our J-1 pricing calculator for an estimate. 

After submitting all required documents and fees and all parties have signed the DS-7002, received the DS-2019 within 4 weeks, and bring it to your visa interview. Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application (DS-160)  to schedule your visa appointment, upload a photo and print the barcode page to take with you to your visa interview.

The J-1 Visa Interview 

J-1 visa applicants must undergo an interview and pay a $185 Embassy fee online in advance for shorter wait times. Essential interview documents include a passport, DS-160 confirmation, SEVIS fee receipt, personal photo, DS-2019, and DS-7002 forms. Optional but helpful items are financial documents, visa appointment confirmation, and transcripts to demonstrate nonimmigrant intent. Preparation is key, so consult our 10 smart tips to confidently answer J-1 visa interview questions. 

Once you complete your interview and are approved, you can start brushing up on your English skills and prepare to travel to the U.S. Make sure that you double check if host organizations have any additional requirements, whether that be appropriate attire or subsidizing transportation fees. 

Why You Should Work with Intrax Premium Hospitality 

With such a lengthy application process, we know how hard it can be to keep track and have all of your ducks in a row. At Global Internships, we want to support you throughout your process, especially as you navigate the hospitality industry. That’s why we have our Premium Hospitality Internship, which helps you get matched with top hospitality companies and ensures that your internship runs smoothly. 

Premium Hospitality is an ideal option for those who wish to pursue a career in hospitality and want to get access to internships with luxury hotels. You’ll earn well deserved experience at the world’s hotels that are rated by Forbes and have achieved 4 or 5-star ratings. For example, you can get matched with a position within The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, which is under the Marriott family. 

Other features include: 

1. You can leverage our signature organization relationships to be a top candidate. 
2. We develop a training plan that identifies goals and responsibilities for both the candidate and host. 
3. Our Program Advisors check-in with both the candidate and host to monitor satisfaction.
4. Many of our hosts provide the opportunity to transfer at the end of your program to one of their international sister properties, allowing you to return home with experience and time of service. 

If you’re interested in launching your Marriott career with ease and continuous support, you can request for more information now!

Apply for a Marriott Internship Today with Global Internships!

With Global Internships, you can get one step closer to achieving your goal of being a Marriott intern. We can support you with: 

• Exclusive positions
• Year-round start dates
• Amazing customer service
• Emergency support around the clock
• Assistance with securing work authorization
• An international network of connections

As a U.S. Department of State designated J-1 Visa sponsor, we can help you get a J-1 visa, show you available internships, guide you through specific programs in hospitality and more. If you’re interested in starting your abroad experience today, you can request information, begin your registration, or contact us today!