How Bachelor’s Student Matteo Chiocca Joined Silversea
Securing an internship is an important milestone. Turning that internship into a full-time position is an even greater achievement.
This is exactly what happened to Matteo Chiocca, a Bachelor’s student specializing in Management of Luxury Tourism & Hospitality at the International University of Monaco (IUM).
After completing his internship as Shore Excursions Intern at Silversea Cruises in Monaco, Matteo was offered a permanent position as Analyst – Regional Destination Experiences, several months before graduating from his Bachelor’s degree in November 2026.
His journey perfectly illustrates how academic learning, international exposure, and professional opportunities can come together to launch a successful career.
A Global Mindset Built Through International Experiences
Curious by nature and passionate about discovering new cultures, Matteo has combined academic excellence with practical experience from an early age.
Alongside working in his family business, he broadened his international perspective through two study-abroad experiences: one semester in the United States at the age of 17 and another exchange semester in Seoul, South Korea during his second year at IUM.
These experiences helped him develop the adaptability, cultural awareness, and international mindset that have become essential assets in today’s global business environment.
How the IUM Network Opened the Door
Interestingly, Matteo’s journey with Silversea began inside an IUM classroom.
An IUM alumnus working at Silversea visited one of his classes to present his career and share insights about the company.
That was the first time I started considering Silversea as a place where I could potentially work.
A few months later, Matteo noticed an internship opportunity posted on the IUM Alumni Intranet and decided to apply.
That application became the first step toward a long-term career.
Looking back, it’s a great example of how valuable the IUM network can be. It started with an alumnus sharing his experience in class, continued through the Alumni Intranet, and eventually my internship became a full-time position.
Learning Through Real Responsibilities
During his internship within the Destination Experiences department, Matteo supported the team in managing shore excursions and destination-related activities across the world.
The experience allowed him to discover what happens behind the scenes to create unforgettable experiences for luxury cruise guests while developing key professional skills such as organization, attention to detail, communication, and adaptability.
Today, as an Analyst – Regional Destination Experiences, his role has evolved significantly.
He now works directly with regional destination portfolios, analyzes operational data, contributes to strategic decisions, and helps improve Silversea’s destination offering.
The biggest difference is the level of ownership. As an intern, I was mainly learning and supporting the team. Today I have my own responsibilities and contribute directly to the department’s decisions while continuing to learn every day.
Skills Developed at IUM That Made the Difference
When asked which skills acquired at IUM have proven most valuable in his career, Matteo immediately highlights the University’s international environment.
IUM is incredibly international. Throughout my studies, I worked with classmates from many different countries and cultures. That experience has been invaluable at Silversea, where collaboration with international teams is part of everyday life.
He also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, presentation skills, adaptability, and proactivity.
Through numerous group projects and presentations, Matteo learned how to collaborate with diverse personalities, communicate ideas effectively, meet deadlines, and adapt quickly to changing situations, skills that have translated directly into the workplace.
Advice for Future Students
For students looking for an internship, Matteo’s advice is simple: Take advantage of every opportunity IUM offers.
Attend company presentations, networking events, career fairs, and alumni talks, even if you’re unsure whether the company or industry matches your ambitions.
In my case, simply attending a presentation by an IUM alumnus introduced me to a company that eventually became my employer.
He also encourages students not to underestimate themselves.
Don’t wait until you meet every requirement before applying. Companies are looking for motivated, curious people who are willing to learn.
Finally, he believes that every internship should be treated as much more than an academic requirement.
Ask questions. Show initiative. Be curious. Learn from everyone around you. You never know where an internship can lead. Mine became the beginning of my career.
Preparing Students for Their Future Careers
Matteo’s journey perfectly reflects IUM’s educational philosophy: combining academic excellence with experiential learning, international exposure, and strong industry connections.
By working closely with leading companies such as Silversea, students gain practical experience, expand their professional network, and develop the confidence and skills needed to launch successful international careers.
For Matteo, what began as a classroom presentation ultimately became the first step toward his professional future, a reminder that every opportunity has the potential to shape a career.
If you would like more information about our bachelor’s program, please visit our website.
Feel free to also contact the Admissions Team directly at admissions@monaco
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