What’s the most important thing you learned in school?
Throughout my education, one of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned is the importance of critical thinking and resilience. While practical knowledge and academic skills have been essential throughout my post-secondary journey, it’s the experience of navigating challenges and balancing life’s demands that has truly shaped my perspective. These experiences have not only deepened my understanding of the world but also provided me with the tools to grow into the person I am today, and the person I aspire to become.
Why did you choose to study travel, tourism or hospitality?
I chose to study Tourism Marketing and Sales because I’ve always been passionate about travel and drawn to the creative world of marketing. I was looking for a career that combines both practicality and creativity while allowing me to explore my love for tourism. I really enjoy learning new things, having a dynamic work environment and connecting with people, so this program has been the perfect fit in helping me turn my interests into meaningful industry-related skills.
What is your greatest professional strength?
My greatest professional strength is my ambition and eagerness to grow. I’m passionate about continuous learning and I actively seek opportunities to take on new challenges and push beyond my comfort zone. I’m driven by a genuine curiosity and a desire to grow, which helps me stay open to new perspectives and embrace every opportunity as a chance to gain valuable experience.
In your opinion, what's the most exciting trend in travel, tourism or hospitality right now and why?
One of the most exciting trends to me right now is the rise of purposeful travel and the growing interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations. At a time when overtourism is a concern, it’s encouraging to see more travellers seeking out lesser-known locations and engaging more deeply with local cultures and histories. This shift reflects a more mindful and meaningful approach to travel, which I find inspiring. It also aligns with a more sustainable way of exploring the world; one that prioritizes environmental impact and community well-being.
What are your goals for the year ahead?
I’m currently in the final phase of my studies, completing an internship that’s helping me apply everything I’ve learned so far. Once that wraps up, I have some exciting travel plans ahead, including an Alaskan cruise and a walking tour in the UK! After that, I’m eager to dive deeper into the industry, build on my experience and explore the next steps in my career journey.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I see myself successfully marketing a destination or creating travel itineraries designed for in-market and social media use. I’m passionate about the tourism industry and social media marketing, so I’m excited to build a career that combines the two and allows me to grow creatively and professionally in a field I love.
What are some of the top places you want to see in Canada and why?
While I haven’t explored much of Canada yet, I’m excited to start discovering more of what this beautiful country has to offer. Montreal is high on my list for its unique blend of urban energy and rich cultural history. I’m also eager to experience the Maritimes and soak in the laid-back East Coast lifestyle, and I’d love to travel to the Yukon to learn about life in the Arctic. Hopefully I can catch a glimpse of the northern lights along the way!
What do you do to engage in travel, tourism or hospitality mindfully/sustainably?
I always make it a priority to respect the land I’m on and the cultures of the places I visit. I take time to research beforehand to ensure I’m honouring local customs and avoiding sacred or sensitive areas. I also travel with reusable items and bags to minimize waste and make a conscious effort to leave no trace behind. I believe in leaving places as I found them, if not better. Looking ahead, my goal is to take this commitment further by intentionally choosing eco-friendly accommodations for future travels.
Name your favourite travel or hospitality experience so far:
One of my favourite travel experiences so far was a boat tour I did in Croatia. I didn’t know anyone on the trip but by the end of the tour I had made friends from all over the world. It was such a special experience to connect with people while exploring a beautiful country, snorkelling in the Adriatic, enjoying the sun, and taking in the landscapes. It reminded me of the importance of travel in bringing people together.
Name your greatest achievement so far:
Before my studies in tourism marketing, I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at UBC. While there, I had the opportunity to complete an independent research project that was part of a larger study, which was ultimately published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology. I’m incredibly proud of this achievement, especially since being a published author has been a dream of mine since I was a child.
What’s the best OR worst piece of travel advice you’ve received?
The worst advice I’ve heard is that travelling with others leads to conflict and strained relationships. In my experience, travelling with friends and family has been nothing but wonderful. For me, travelling is such a positive experience and fun time, and travelling with my friends and family has led to some of my most cherished memories.
What destination is next on your dream travel list and why?
My next travel destination will hopefully be the Dolomites, where I’m eager to be immersed in the stunning natural beauty of the mountains and lakes. I’m drawn to the region not only for its landscapes, but also for the opportunity to experience the local alpine culture and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring charming mountain villages. I’m also looking forward to exploring Guatemala, with its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. I’m especially interested in learning about Guatemalan Indigenous heritage and the many vibrant communities.
