Hospitality Business Academy
Explore Your Future in Hospitality.
July 11–15, 2027
The FGCU Hospitality Business Academy is a five-day immersive, overnight summer experience for high school students interested in hospitality, tourism, events, culinary operations, business, and leadership.
Participants will experience college life at Florida Gulf Coast University while exploring hospitality careers through interactive activities, industry visits, team challenges, and networking with hospitality professionals, FGCU faculty, and current students.
Academy at a Glance
- Event Dates: July 11–15, 2027
- Program Format: Five-day immersive overnight summer experience
- Location: Florida Gulf Coast University and participating Southwest Florida hospitality businesses
- Eligibility: 16-18 years of age. Students must be recommended by their teacher and/or their guidance counselor.
- Admission: Space is limited, and applications are reviewed as they are received. Applicants will typically receive an admission decision within 14 days of submitting a complete application.
- Scholarships and Financial Assistance: A limited number of sponsored registrations or scholarships may be available through the generosity of hospitality industry partners.
- Early-Bird Fee: $350 (if paid by May 1, 2027) / Regular Fee: $395
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2027
What is Included?
The academy fee covers over night accommodations, three meals per day, transportation during the program, educational activities, industry visits, program materials, academy shirts, and a certificate of completion. Specific activities, accommodations, meals, and program items may vary each year.
Why Attend?
The Hospitality Business Academy gives students the opportunity to:
- Experience life on the FGCU campus
- Explore careers throughout the hospitality and tourism industry
- Visit leading Southwest Florida hotels, resorts, clubs, restaurants, and tourism organizations
- Participate in hands-on hospitality activities
- Learn from industry professionals, FGCU faculty, and current students
- Build leadership, communication, teamwork, and professional skills
- Discover the many career opportunities available beyond traditional hotel and restaurant positions
- Learn more about FGCU’s School of Resort & Hospitality Management programs
Testimonials
Hospitality Business Academy has changed my perspective on my future. It was very unsure going into the camp with what I wanted to do in life. But this opportunity let me know that hospitality IS my future and I can not wait to see what comes next! I will never forget this experience. Looking forward to next year and hopefully becoming a FGCU Eagle! ”
Thank you for including my son in the Hospitality Business Academy. He enjoyed the experience so much that, before he had even left Fort Myers, he told us he already missed it! He learned a great deal about the hospitality industry and had a wonderful experience. Thank you to everyone who made the program so memorable. ”
We appreciated the opportunity to showcase our club and introduce students to the many career paths available within the private club industry. We hope the experience provided valuable insight into club operations and helped students better understand the exciting opportunities this industry has to offer.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Where will students stay?
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Are meals included?
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Is transportation provided?
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What should students bring?
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What is the dress code?
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Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
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Can students request a roommate?
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What happens if a student takes medication?
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Are accommodations available for students with disabilities?
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What is the cancellation and refund policy?
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How will families receive updates?
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Sponsorship Opportunities
Support the Hospitality Business Academy
Hospitality industry partners and community supporters help make the Hospitality Business Academy possible. Sponsorships may support student scholarships, meals, transportation, educational activities, industry experiences, program materials, and other academy needs. Your support helps introduce high school students to the many educational and career opportunities available throughout the hospitality and tourism industry.
