Student Volunteer Placements in Events, Tourism, and Hospitality: Understanding the Views of Multiple Stakeholders

Abstract

With the rise in event management and related degrees such as tourism and hospitality, student volunteering has increased within event-related educational programs as student volunteer placements are integrated into the curriculum. Drawing on psychological contract theory, this research examines the expectations and experiences of student volunteers, volunteer managers, and university placement officers to provide a holistic understanding of the student volunteer placement process. Data were collected through interviews and written reflections of the student volunteer experience. The findings indicate that student volunteers are driven to engage in volunteer placements by seven key factors: gaining experience in the application of knowledge, gaining new knowledge, acquiring transferable skills, networking, resumé building, and enhanced employability. Managerial expectations of volunteers encompassed four central categories: current skills and knowledge, skills and knowledge that develop over time, performance attributes, and reciprocal benefits. Finally, results showed that the university placement officer acts as a conduit between the students and the placement organizations. The results hold implications for volunteer managers and university placement officers in developing student volunteer programs that maximize the benefits for all stakeholders.