What’s the most important thing you learned in school?
The most important thing I learned in school was how to balance multiple things at once and learn how to prioritize them. With a variety of classes came a variety of due dates, and I learned how to prioritize certain projects due to their importance while ensuring that everything was completed in a timely manner. This skill of balancing numerous things will serve me well as I enter the tourism industry.
Why did you choose to study travel, tourism or hospitality?
I chose to study travel and tourism because exploring the world is an immense passion of mine. There is something gratifying about experiencing new cultures and encountering the immense beauty the world contains. It is an amazing opportunity to grow as a person through the experiences that travel brings while seeing beautiful surroundings. I want to help others and connect people to experience the passion and sense of wonder I have for travel.
What is your greatest professional strength?
I work well with others and am aware that each person has different ways of communicating. I know that patience serves me well in navigating those situations. I am a hard worker and will put in all my effort to produce high quality work.
In your opinion, what’s the most exciting trend in travel, tourism or hospitality right now and why?
Solo travel is the most exciting trend in travel and tourism that I see happening right now. Seeing people stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing the ability to explore individually is inspiring. Solo travel is a unique opportunity to learn about yourself and grow confidence. It is becoming a more prominent focus for travellers.
What are your goals for the year ahead?
My goals for the year ahead are graduating from the Travel and Tourism program at MacEwan University, launching my career in the tourism industry and celebrating my achievements by travelling to Asia.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I envision myself getting involved with a management position within the travel and tourism industry. I value and enjoy opportunities to work with a team. I have had many wonderful leaders who have shown me the lasting impact of a great leader/mentor. I hope that one day, I can be an effective leader for someone else. I enjoy helping others grow and I hope to pursue this avenue during my career.
What are some of the top places you want to see in Canada and why?
I have been fortunate to explore seven provinces in our beautiful country, each with unique individualism. This year, I plan to explore Waterton National Park and see the stunning natural beauty that it has to offer. My other Canadian bucket list destination is visiting Newfoundland and Labrador. This province has a unique charm, and I would love to experience the Newfie culture (and hopefully see a puffin while I am there…).
What do you do to engage in travel, tourism or hospitality mindfully/sustainably?
It is important to be aware of the impact of travelling. To engage in travel sustainably, I ensure that I am aware of the cultural practices of the place I am visiting to be respectful. It is important to be mindful of your impact on where you travel. With the increased exposure to some areas because of social media, it is important to remember that not everywhere is meant to be a tourist attraction.
Name your favourite travel or hospitality experience so far:
My favourite travel experience so far has been when I travelled to Australia for six weeks. I did a solo trip there, travelling up the East Coast, and it was an amazing experience. I saw the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Opera House and many other wonderful places on Australia’s East Coast.
Name your greatest achievement so far:
My greatest achievement so far is that I have been able to balance both work and school. Ensuring I make time for all my school assignments while balancing work in the middle has been eye-opening. I have learned to manage my time and ensured that I am still putting a lot of effort and time into maintaining my schoolwork and GPA. My ability to balance these two consecutively will serve me well in the future, as I know how to balance multiple things simultaneously with varying degrees of priority.
What’s the best OR worst piece of travel advice you’ve received?
The worst piece of travel advice I have received is regarding how women should not travel alone. A lot of fear is still engrained in society, but the truth is that women can travel safely to many places. Not letting the fear and people’s opinions override that decision was the best for me.
What destination is next on your dream travel list and why?
New Zealand and Vietnam. New Zealand and Vietnam have such stunning scenery and lovely people. I want to see the unique landscapes that each encapsulates and experience their unique cultures.
