My Internship Journey: Life as an HR Intern Across Three Hotels

Hey everyone! I’m Joëlle, and I’m currently diving headfirst into the world of Human Resources through an internship that’s anything but ordinary. I’m working as an HR intern for a cluster of hotels in Malta, including:

  • Corinthia St. George’s Bay
  • Radisson Blu Resort St. Julian’s
  • Verdi Hotels in St. George’s Bay and Gzira


It’s one internship, but I get to experience three totally unique brands. As my mentor, Martina, put it: “This is a rare opportunity!” And she’s absolutely right.

How It All Began

My journey started with an efficient application process that quickly turned into an exciting opportunity—an internship in Human Resources. Fast forward a month, and I found myself at a desk in the HR office: the beating heart of the hotels, dedicated to managing their most valuable asset—the people.

As Alfred Pisani, Chairman and Founder of the Corinthia Group, wisely said:
“It is the people that give life to a company. As the body is the shell, likewise the spirit is the soul of its people.”

This quote has been a constant source of inspiration as I navigate the fast-paced and ever-changing world of hospitality HR.

A Front-Row Seat to Hotel Operations

Every day, I get to witness the inner workings of three distinct hotel brands, each with its own culture, employee needs, and operational style. My role involves handling administrative tasks and assisting with learning and development activities, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

One of my first major projects was creating training materials to be used across all three hotels. This involved collaborating with department heads, gathering information, and learning about how each brand approaches team development. It was a steep learning curve, balancing this project with my daily tasks, but the positive feedback I received made every effort worthwhile.

From the Classroom to the Real World

Like any journey, my internship hasn’t been without its challenges. Moving from a structured academic environment to the fast-paced world of hospitality HR has been both thrilling and demanding. Here, no two days are the same. Tasks appear out of nowhere, priorities shift, and multitasking begins the moment I walk through the door.

In school, life revolved around predictable schedules. In the HR office, it’s all about flexibility, quick thinking, and adapting to whatever comes your way. This constant state of motion has taught me how to thrive under pressure and stay organised amidst chaos—a lesson I’ll carry with me wherever I go.

The Bigger Picture

As my internship progresses, I’m starting to see the bigger picture of how HR impacts a company’s culture and overall success. Supporting and growing teams across three hotels has given me a unique perspective on the importance of Human Resources. It’s not just about policies and paperwork—it’s about fostering an environment where employees feel valued and motivated to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

The hands-on nature of my role has shown me how interconnected HR practices are with the day-to-day operations of a business. From onboarding new hires to coordinating development programmes, everything we do in HR contributes to the overall health of the organisation.

Lessons Learned

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned so far is the power of collaboration. Working on cross-brand projects has shown me the importance of teamwork and communication in achieving common goals. I’ve also gained insight into the nuances of managing HR for different brands, each with its own identity and challenges.

The experience has reinforced the importance of adaptability in HR. What works for one brand may not suit another, and being able to tailor solutions to meet diverse needs is a skill I’m continually developing.

Looking Ahead

When I return to the classroom, I’ll bring with me a wealth of knowledge and practical experience that has already transformed how I view my future in HR. This internship has been a game-changer, giving me a front-row seat to the real-world application of everything I’ve studied.

And honestly? I couldn’t have asked for a better place to start my journey. The hospitality industry in Malta has provided me with incredible opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, and I’m deeply grateful for the chance to grow in such a supportive and inspiring environment.

For anyone considering a similar path, I highly recommend exploring internships in Malta or jobs in Malta. The vibrant hospitality sector here offers endless opportunities to learn, grow, and make meaningful connections in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.

My time as an HR intern across these three hotels has been an unforgettable experience, filled with challenges, growth, and moments of pride. It’s shown me that Human Resources is more than just a department—it’s the backbone of an organisation’s success.

To anyone dreaming of a career in HR or hospitality, my advice is simple: take the leap. You never know where the journey might take you, but I promise it will be worth it.

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