Karina McNeill
May 21, 2026

What inspired you to pursue a path in travel, tourism, or hospitality?

What inspired me to pursue a path in tourism was my early love for exploring the world. As a child, I was very fortunate to travel on many trips with my family. At a young age, I visited several parts of the Caribbean, which sparked my interest in learning about new cultures and experiencing different parts of the world through the study of tourism. Travel is such an important aspect of life, it truly allows you to experience the beauty of the world. 

What excites you most about the future of this industry?

What excites me most about the future of the tourism industry is its constant growth and change. Tourism is never the same, as it is an industry that evolves so frequently that it never becomes tiring. I believe that with the rise of social media and marketing, more people who may have never thought much about tourism are now becoming interested in it. I am excited to see how large of an audience tourism can continue to reach and how the industry will keep growing in the years to come.

What’s one experience (in either travel, school, or work) that has shaped who you are today?

Last summer, I had the amazing opportunity to work in tourism marketing. Through this experience, I was able to travel across all parts of Prince Edward Island, seeing everything we have to offer, meeting the people behind the tourism industry, and gaining an appreciation for the small details that people often overlook. Growing up on PEI, I had always known how important tourism is to our economy, but I had never truly seen that side of it firsthand. I believe this job helped shape me into the person I am today and gave me a deeper connection to, and appreciation for, our island’s tourism industry.

How do you hope to make an impact through your career in travel, tourism, or hospitality?

Throughout my career in tourism, I hope to make a meaningful impact by helping the industry grow and reach its full potential. Tourism is incredibly important and deserves greater recognition. Through marketing, I hope to connect with a wide audience by inspiring people on where to go, what to explore, and how to make the most of their travels. I want to become a trusted guide who helps people take that first step toward experiencing the world. I believe it is so important for people to learn about different cultures and places, and to experience them firsthand.

Why do you believe travel has the power to change lives or communities?

I believe travel can transform both individuals and communities by opening doors to growth, connection, and understanding. On a personal level, it encourages people to step beyond their comfort zones, immerse themselves in different cultures, and see the world from new perspectives. It also fosters confidence, independence, and a deeper respect for diversity.

What has been your most memorable travel or hospitality experience so far?

My most memorable travel experience was a trip to Mexico last year with my friends. We had been planning it for years, so finally seeing it come together felt incredible. We spent our days relaxing in the sun, swimming in the beautiful ocean, and meeting people from all over the world. Experiencing such an amazing destination for the first time with my closest friends made it unforgettable. It’s a true core memory I will always carry with me.

What destination is at the top of your travel bucket list right now and why?

The destination currently at the top of my bucket list is Australia. As someone who has always appreciated Aussie culture, loves animals, and enjoys exploring scenic landscapes, Australia feels like the perfect fit for me. From iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House to natural wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef, it truly feels like a place I’m meant to experience.I’ve always felt a strong connection to the ocean, so the idea of visiting one of the world’s most ocean-rich destinations is especially exciting. Australia has always felt like it’s calling my name, and I hope to make the trip there in the near future.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about travel or your career?

The best piece of advice I’ve received about travel is simple: just go for it. Money always comes back, but time and experiences don’t. I think it’s so important to travel while I’m young, because as many people older than me have said, one of their biggest regrets is not travelling more. With travel continuing to grow and opportunities expanding, I believe the best advice is to stop waiting and just go while you still can.

As a Baxter Student Ambassador, what are you most excited to contribute or achieve this year?

As a Baxter Student Ambassador, I’m most excited about the chance to share how meaningful and impactful the tourism industry really is, while also exploring ways it can continue to grow and innovate. I’m especially passionate about applying this experience to help strengthen and expand tourism in Prince Edward Island. It’s truly an honour to have been chosen as an ambassador, and I’m eager to learn, grow, and connect with others who share the same passion for this industry.





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