FLEXIBLE TO SHIFT OR TRANSFORM: EFFECTS OF COVID-19 ON THE FUTURE ANXIETY OF HOSPITALITY STUDENTS

COVID-19 has represented a turning point for hospitality industry with enormous effects leading to a potential transformation. This study aims to identify the effects of this period on the pandemic evaluation and future considerations of hospitality students to suggest actions for decision-makers in hospitality education to motivate students into sustainable careers in the sector. The findings of the quantitative research report that students’ evaluations of the pandemic are explained by future anxiety and openness. Students with prior work experience tend to have more negative evaluations of the pandemic. The findings of the qualitative research point out that students evaluate the pandemic period with a realistic and optimistic perspective to enhance their capabilities to adapt to changes, transform or shift to a relevant sector.