Karine Horbunova, Head of the Department of Methodology of Vocational Education, PhD in Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor, Mykolaiv National Agrarian University, Mykolaiv, Ukraine

ORCID: 0000-0002-9920-7049
e-mail: karinegorbunova@gmail.com

Kateryna Ulitina, Assistant at the Department of Methodology of Vocational Education, Mykolaiv National Agrarian University, Mykolaiv, Ukraine

ORCID: 0000-0002-3394-2024
e-mail: katri_87@ukr.net

Preparation of Students Major in «Hotel and Restaurant Business» for Professional Activity under European Integration Conditions

Abstract. Introduction. European integration processes significantly transform the system of higher education in Ukraine, particularly in the field of hospitality and service industries. Modern hotel and restaurant business requires specialists who possess not only professional knowledge but also well-developed psychological, emotional, and communicative competencies. In this context, psychological training becomes a strategic component of professional education, ensuring graduates’ adaptability, stress resistance, and readiness for intercultural interaction in a competitive European labor market.

Purpose. The purpose of the article is to investigate the impact of European integration changes on the professional training of students majoring in Hotel and Restaurant Business and to determine the role of the academic discipline Psychology in developing social-emotional, communicative, and professional competencies essential for future hospitality specialists.

Results. The study substantiates that psychological training significantly enhances students’ emotional intelligence, communicative competence, stress tolerance, and conflict-management skills. Empirical research conducted among second-year students of Mykolaiv National Agrarian University confirms the effectiveness of interactive teaching methods, including trainings, role-playing games, case studies, and facilitated discussions. Quantitative results demonstrate a substantial increase in emotional stability, empathy, and communicative competence after completing the psychology course. Qualitative findings reveal improved self-confidence, reduced anxiety in client interactions, and higher readiness for teamwork in professional settings.

Conclusions. The research concludes that psychological education should be considered an integral and strategic element of professional training in hospitality education under European integration conditions. The integration of psychology-oriented modules into the curriculum contributes to the formation of competitive, emotionally competent, and socially responsible specialists. Such an approach aligns Ukrainian higher education with European educational standards and supports sustainable professional development in the hospitality sector.

Keywords: hospitality; professional training; psychology; emotional intelligence; European integration.

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