Title: Enhancing Personal and Leadership Development among Hospitality and Tourism Students through CHTM Student Council Activities: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lagman, Jenny Mae M. , Quioc, Christian Jhay L., Lazaro, Mark Alvin V., Gomez, Vince Richard Q.
Volume: 10
Issue: 1
Pages: 40-46
Publication Date: 2026/01/28
Abstract:
Student councils play a vital role in promoting student engagement, leadership formation, and holistic development in higher education, particularly in hospitality and tourism programs where service-oriented competencies are essential. This study evaluated the role of the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM) Student Council in enhancing the personal and leadership development of students at Gordon College. Employing a qualitative case study design, data were gathered through in-depth interviews with selected CHTM students who actively participated in student council activities. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data and identify emerging patterns in students' experiences. The findings revealed six major themes: meaningful personal growth through service and engagement; strengthened personal and leadership development; development of core leadership and interpersonal competencies; high relevance and holistic benefits of student council activities; difficulty balancing academic responsibilities with student council participation; and the need for more skill-focused and development-oriented programs. Results indicate that involvement in CHTM Student Council activities fostered inclusivity, a sense of belonging, confidence, leadership skills, communication competence, teamwork, and social responsibility. Despite these positive outcomes, participants also experienced challenges related to time management, scheduling conflicts, personal limitations, and financial constraints. The study concludes that the CHTM Student Council serves as an effective platform for experiential learning and student development, although continuous program enhancement and institutional support are necessary to maximize its impact.