What inspired you to pursue a career in travel and tourism? Was there a defining moment?
My Aunt Naomi was a passionate Travel Advisor for many years — helping people fulfill their dream of traveling the world, and I saw her do the same for herself. She was a fabulous, fierce and friendly people-person, someone I always admired, and I realized I shared many of her same traits. When the time was right, I was given the gift of time…a helpful pause in my career that allowed me to do the research, my homework, some dedicated training and fully understand what this shift to the travel industry could mean for my future. I found the Travel Institute, started an entry course (TRIPKIT) and never looked back!
Can you share a moment in your career when you realized, “This is exactly what I’m meant to do”?
When I feel responsible for bringing joy to someone, whether it be sending them something special to excite them about their upcoming trip, or if I help resolve with what might have been a bigger issue, or if I get a picture or special text from a client while they’re in-destination simply because they want to let me know they’re having the best time…that’s when it hits me.
How has your journey evolved since graduating from The Travel Institute?
I’m more confident in my planning and recognized as a more meaningful professional in the industry. I’m reminded by others and remind myself as well that this is a career, not simply a hobbyist gig.
What’s your favorite part about helping others experience the world through travel?
Knowing that I’ve helped make things easier, more stress-free, seamless or worry-free for them…feels like a success story for me! I worry about plenty and double check lots of details, the sorts of things I’d want to know in advance if it were my own trip…and I try to get ahead of that for them. That is one of my favorite parts — knowing I’ve helped make travel easier for them in one way or another.
What’s one cultural experience that left a lasting impression on you?
Dog sledding in Alaska!
Tobogganing down the concrete road in Madeira, Portugal!
Witnessing a sheep-herding demonstration by an amazing sheepdog in Ireland!
What skills from The Travel Institute have made the biggest impact in your career?
Learning about the important role of host agencies, being an independent contractor, financial aspects of owning your own business, branding and business etiquette.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their travel industry journey?
Spend the time to learn, listen, make connections with other like-minded Advisors, do the homework and keep training…this is an always-evolving industry that will constantly provide us with new information, new details, new requirements, regulations and products to learn about. Never stop learning.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in an industry that’s constantly changing?
Traveling keeps me motivated!
Are there any mentors or peers in the industry who’ve deeply influenced your path?
First, my late Aunt Naomi whom I never had the opportunity to fully ‘download’ with her on the long travel career she had, nor did I get to fully share my goals and dreams for how I’d like to follow so many of her footsteps. I’m grateful for her path and I know she’s proud of me and my journey.
Secondly, so many welcoming Advisors who I connected with early on to ask Qs…still helpful mentors to me in this warm, non-competitive space that I’ll always look up to. I’m so lucky.
If you could only pack 3 items for a trip around the world, what would they be?
My iphone
My external phone charger
A versatile jacket with deep pockets (for all the other things I can think of bringing)!!
😉
What’s one place on your travel bucket list that you haven’t crossed off yet?
Australia! It hardly ever felt like a reality, now it feels well-within reach!
