The Influence of Emotional Intelligence Attributes on The Academic Performance of Tourism Management Students – The Case of Alexandria University

Researchers have shown considerable interest in understanding the factors that contribute to the improvement of academic performance among university students. In recent years, as the multiple intelligences theory has gained prominence, some scholars have argued that emotional intelligence may serve as a more effective predictor of academic success and future achievements compared to traditional metrics such as GPA, IQ, and standardized test scores. Consequently, corporations and universities have increasingly focused on emotional intelligence due to its perceived significance. Emotionally intelligent individuals typically excel in four key areas: recognizing, utilizing, understanding, and managing both their own emotions and those of others. Given the prevalent importance of emotional intelligence as a fundamental skill, there is a compelling need to investigate its relationship with academic performance, particularly among university students. This inquiry becomes even more relevant for tourism management students, who will eventually enter demanding professions where high levels of emotional intelligence are crucial for achieving customer satisfaction. This paper aims to investigate how emotional intelligence attributes can affect the academic performance of tourism management students. Data is collected through a field survey conducted among tourism management students in Alexandria University. The data from the survey is analyzed statistically using multiple regression analysis, analysis of variances tests and other statistical tests. The results of the study reveal that the respondents have moderate to high level of Emotional Intelligence. Three attributes  (self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management) of emotional intelligence investigated are found to be significantly and positively associated with the respondents’ academic performance. The findings of the study hold important implications on the value of emotional intelligence and its influence on students’ academic performance, especially among tourism management students.