"That experience is so important, and it helps to solidify what they're really interested in and what they want to pursue in this industry," she said. "It helps them to stay focused on what they need to learn more of."

Perhaps above all, hotels are looking for people with lots of energy and a passion for the business.

"You gotta have high energy and leadership potential to be in these positions," said Kawehi Sellers, internship and career placement coordinator for the University of Hawai'i School of Travel Industry Management. "You have to be really outstanding and energetic."

Keith Vieira, senior vice president and director of operations for Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Hawai'i and French Polynesia, said he looks for individuals with "that 'go get 'em' energy."

"It is much more attitude-based than it is pure intelligence," he said. "You're really looking for that special one who is just aggressive from a standpoint of wanting to do more.

"I definitely want to see an affinity for ho'okipa, or Hawaiian hospitality. They have to have an understanding that our culture and our history is very important to our guest experience. We make sure that either they have that knowledge or they have the desire to learn that knowledge. We're not looking for cutthroat, do whatever it takes to win."

Reach Lynda Arakawa at larakawa@honoluluadvertiser.com.