Missouri State University Hospitality Leadership

South Korea has officially welcomed the Bears! 🇰🇷

In Seoul, Missouri State students are stepping into the many layers of Korean culture through a mix of academic exchange, tourism experiences, and cultural immersion.

At Sogang University and the Korea Tourism Organization Seoul Center, students connected with local institutions shaping education and destination storytelling. HiKR Ground added an interactive look at how Korea presents its culture to global visitors.

The journey has also moved into a different side of the city, with a K-pop dance class, Korean BBQ, and traditional street food offering a taste of modern Seoul.

A visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace in hanbok, along with time at the National Folk Museum, brought Korea’s history and heritage into focus.

Together, these experiences highlight the people, places, and influences that make South Korea such a dynamic destination. 🌏

🚨 Calling All Hospitality Recruiters 🚨

It’s June, which means fall recruiting might feel far off, but it’s the perfect time to get ahead and secure your spot.

We’d love to invite you to the Fall 2026 Hospitality Leadership Career Fair at Missouri State University.

Meet career-ready hospitality students who are eager for internships and full-time opportunities, and connect in the way that works best for you:

📍 In-Person Fair
Missouri State University Campus
Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 1:00 pm–3:00 pm

💻 Virtual Fair (Handshake)
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 10:00 am –3:00 pm
Includes group and 1:1 sessions

You’re welcome to join one or both options to reach students in multiple ways.

🔗 Learn more & register here: https://hospitality.missouristate.edu/Recruiters-Fair.htm

The learning continues in Japan! 🇯🇵

Missouri State students recently explored the connections between tourism, hospitality, and entertainment through visits to the Tokyo American Club and Toei Company, one of Japan's leading entertainment companies. The group also attended guest lectures on content tourism and anime's influence on travel.

Beyond industry visits, students explored Odaiba Marine Park and experienced a favorite local pastime with a group karaoke outing.

Each stop offers a new perspective on the industries and experiences that bring people together across cultures.

You never know where you'll find Hospitality Leadership alumni!

2026 graduate Jaxon Thomas recently shared a few photos from festivals in Springfield and Eureka Springs, where he works alongside his mom at Cactus Jewels & Co. At the booth, Jaxon welds permanent jewelry and assists customers with handcrafted turquoise pieces, helping create a memorable experience for visitors along the way.

Thanks for sharing a glimpse into your work with us, Jaxon!

Penelope took advantage of the blue skies to pick some berries. Missouri Berries

Dr. Tina Liang is currently leading a group of Missouri State students through Japan and South Korea, exploring how culture, tourism, hospitality, and pop culture shape everyday life.

From a traditional Japanese welcome dinner featuring local seafood specialties to experiencing the art of omotenashi through a tea ceremony, students are stepping into customs and traditions that can't be replicated in a classroom. The group also visited Aoyama Gakuin University, where they connected with local students, toured campus, shared a meal, and exchanged perspectives across cultures.

A few moments from the trip so far. 🌏

Dr. Tina Liang celebrating her birthday earlier this week. 🎂

The advantage of studying abroad during your birthday! She’s currently leading students through Tokyo and Seoul as they explore Pop Culture, Tourism & Hospitality in real time.

Stay tuned for more pics from the trip!

The GASI (Global Awareness Society International) Conference has wrapped up! 🌎

The conference brought together scholars and professionals from around the world to share research, exchange ideas, and discuss issues shaping our increasingly interconnected world.

Before heading home, Dr. Wolfe and Penelope took the opportunity to experience another side of Chile with an excursion into the Andes Mountains. 🏔️🇨🇱 It was a fitting end to a journey filled with learning, connection, and exploration.