What inspired you to pursue a path in travel, tourism, or hospitality?
My interest in travel and tourism started after my first flight at 19. I began taking yearly trips to Universal Orlando Resort. I made amazing friends from around the world through my travels there. My more recent trip to the UK, especially exploring the Scottish Highlands, further strengthened my passion for travel and discovering new places and cultures.
What excites you most about the future of this industry?
What excites me most about the future of this industry is the continued growth of tourism in Canada and the world and the opportunity to create memorable experiences for travellers. Canada has incredible destinations, and more people are becoming interested in what the country has to offer. Exploring new destinations and cultures while watching the industry grow and evolve with new experiences and travel options is incredible to watch, and I look forward to what the future holds.
What’s one experience (in either travel, school, or work) that has shaped who you are today?
One experience that has helped shape who I am today would be the experience of helping guide two guests around Universal Orlando randomly while visiting. They were new to the parks, and after talking and getting to know one another, they wanted to follow me to get around the parks more quickly and efficiently to make the most of their visit. It was this experience that helped me realize that I enjoy helping others explore and enjoy places the most.
How do you hope to make an impact through your career in travel, tourism or hospitality?
I hope to help make an impact by helping to promote and encourage tourism and travel. I would like to get more industry knowledge so that I can help provide confident travel advice to would-be travellers. To promote Eco and Sustainable tourism in our communities to both support local communities and ensure that they are taken care of and treated respectfully.
Why do you believe travel has the power to change lives or communities?
Travel brings hands-on awareness that is not always projected accurately or thoroughly to travellers. Travelling brings guests to the location where they have a chance to learn about a new culture, support new communities and gain a better understanding of how vast, different, and wonderful the world is. If travel is done safely and respectfully to the host communities and environment, I believe it is beneficial to build up support economically to communities and help provide residents with more job opportunities.
What has been your most memorable travel or hospitality experience so far?
I would say my most memorable travel experience so far was my study abroad term I did to Cork, Ireland. I loved exploring all around the west coast, from Killarney National Park, Cliffs of Moher, to the Slea Head Drive with my friends. The locals were lovely; the scenes were breathtaking and I am truly thankful that I got to have that experience
What destination is at the top of your travel bucket list right now and why?
I would love to one day do a Hawaiian, New Zealand and Australian trip. I have always wanted to visit New Zealand and Australia (except for the spiders!), and Hawaii has the same appeal that New Zealand does for me with learning and appreciating more of their Polynesian culture. My teacher recommended doing it as one big trip, so I am hopeful it will happen for me some day.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about travel or your career?
The best advice I have been given throughout my educational and travelling journeys would be to not let fear and uncertainty stop you. The world is a glorious place where we have the privilege to explore, learn and appreciate. Always travel with appropriate caution and safety measures, but one never knows what they may enjoy unless they try. I did not know if I would like or be comfortable on a cruise ship, and I can confidently say now after going on one for the first time that I would go on one again!
As a Baxter Student Ambassador, what are you most excited to contribute or achieve this year?
I am most excited to talk to more industry professionals and get a better understanding of the tourism and travel industry. It is important to promote tourism in Canada and there is so much about this country that I want to learn. With so many provinces offering unique sights to see and experiences to enjoy, I hope to be able to learn what I can do to help promote and encourage active tourism in the country.
