Matteo Chiocca’s Journey
Securing an internship is an important milestone in every student’s journey. Turning that experience into a full-time career opportunity is an even greater achievement.
That is exactly what happened to Matteo Chiocca, a Bachelor in Business Administration student at the International University of Monaco (IUM), specialising in Luxury Tourism & Hospitality.
After completing his internship as a Shore Excursions Intern at Silversea Cruises in Monaco, Matteo was offered a permanent position as Analyst – Regional Destination Experiences, several months before his expected graduation in November 2026.
His journey highlights how academic knowledge, international exposure, hands-on experience and strong connections with the professional world can come together to launch a successful career in luxury tourism and hospitality.
Building an International Mindset Through Study Abroad
Naturally curious and passionate about discovering new cultures, Matteo has combined his academic journey with international and practical experiences from an early stage.
Alongside working in his family business, he developed a strong international outlook through two study-abroad experiences: a semester in the United States at the age of 17, followed by an exchange semester in Seoul, South Korea, during his second year at IUM.
These experiences helped him develop adaptability, cultural awareness and an international mindset — qualities that are increasingly valuable in tourism, hospitality and international business.
How the IUM Network Opened the Door to SilverseaInterestingly, Matteo’s journey with Silversea began right inside an IUM classroom.
Interestingly, Matteo’s journey with Silversea began right inside an IUM classroom.
An IUM alumnus working at Silversea visited one of his classes to share his professional journey and introduce students to the company and its career opportunities.
A few months later, Matteo discovered an internship opportunity posted on the IUM Alumni Intranet and decided to apply.
That application became the first step towards his career in the luxury cruise industry.
For Matteo, this experience demonstrates the value of studying in an environment where students can connect directly with alumni, companies and professionals from around the world.
From Internship to Full-Time Caree
During his internship within Silversea’s Destination Experiences department, Matteo supported the team in managing shore excursions and destination-related activities across different regions of the world.
The experience gave him valuable insight into what happens behind the scenes to create memorable experiences for luxury cruise guests.
At the same time, he developed key professional skills, including:
- Organisation and coordination
- Attention to detail
- Communication
- Adaptability
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
These skills continue to play an important role in his professional development.
From IUM Intern to Silversea Analyst
Today, Matteo’s role has evolved significantly.
As an Analyst – Regional Destination Experiences, he works on regional destination portfolios, analyses operational data, contributes to strategic decision-making and supports the development and enhancement of Silversea’s destination offering.
His transition from intern to full-time employee demonstrates how an internship can be much more than a temporary professional experience.
For students interested in luxury tourism, hospitality, destination management or the cruise industry, gaining practical experience while studying can be a valuable stepping stone towards a successful career.
The IUM Skills That Made a Difference
When asked which skills developed at IUM have proved most valuable in his career, Matteo first highlights the University’s international environment.
He also emphasises the importance of teamwork, communication, presentation skills, adaptability and proactivity.
Through group projects, presentations and collaborative activities, Matteo learned how to work effectively with people from different backgrounds, communicate ideas clearly, meet deadlines and adapt quickly to changing situations.
These skills have translated directly into the workplace.
The combination of academic knowledge and experiential learning has given him the confidence to take on responsibilities within an international company.
Matteo’s Advice to Students Looking for an Internship
His advice to students looking for an internship is simple:
ake advantage of every opportunity IUM has to offer.
Matteo encourages students to attend company presentations, networking events, career fairs and alumni meetings, even when they are not sure whether a particular company or industry perfectly matches their ambitions.
You never know where a conversation or an unexpected opportunity might lead.
He also encourages students to believe in themselves and have confidence in their abilities when applying for new opportunities.
Above all, Matteo believes that an internship should be seen as much more than an academic requirement.
It is an opportunity to learn, build relationships, develop professional skills and discover the career path you want to pursue.
Preparing Students for International Careers
Matteo’s journey reflects IUM’s approach to education: combining academic excellence with experiential learning, international exposure and strong connections with the professional world.
Through relationships with leading companies such as Silversea, IUM students can gain practical experience, expand their professional networks and develop the confidence and skills needed to build successful careers in an international environment.
For students looking to pursue a career in luxury tourism and hospitality, these opportunities provide valuable first-hand experience in one of the world’s most dynamic and international industries.
For Matteo, what began with a presentation in an IUM classroom became the first step towards his professional future.
His story shows that an internship can open the door to a career — and that every opportunity can help shape your future.
Interested in studying Luxury Tourism & Hospitality in Monaco?
Discover our Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA) and prepare to build an international career in luxury tourism, hospitality and beyond.
Discover the IUM Bachelor in Business Administration
For more information, contact our Admissions Team at admissions@monaco.edu.
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