What inspired you to pursue a career in travel and tourism? Was there a defining moment?
When I was in high school (and that was a long time ago). I dreamed of having a career in travel. I remember telling my mom that I wanted to work in the travel industry, and her response was, “No.” So, like many young people, I put that dream aside and took a different path. I went to college, studied accounting, and ultimately spent more than 20 years building a career in corporate accounting.
Over the years, though, travel never really left me. I had the opportunity to travel myself, and I loved sharing my experiences, stories, and recommendations with others. I found so much joy in helping people imagine where they could go and encouraging them to experience the world for themselves.
My defining moment came when my company began planning layoffs. Instead of continuing to accept the stress and uncertainty of corporate America, I decided to step back and ask myself a simple question: What do I truly love?
The answer came pretty quickly, I love travel.
That realization gave me the courage to finally revisit the dream I had put aside all those years ago. What started as a dream in high school has now become a new chapter in my life. I began my journey to become a travel advisor, and I couldn’t be more excited to turn something I’ve always loved into a career.
Sometimes, the dreams we put on hold aren’t really gone, they’re just waiting for the right time to come back. For me, that time is now.
Can you share a moment in your career when you realized, “This is exactly what I’m meant to do”?
For me, that moment came when I started studying for the TAP test. As I learned more about the travel industry, I found myself genuinely excited to study, learn, and understand how everything came together. It didn’t feel like work, it felt like I had finally found my way back to something I had wanted to do so many years ago.
I remember thinking, “This is it. This is exactly what I’m meant to do.”
Sometimes you don’t find your calling, it finds its way back to you. And for me, that happened the moment I realized I wasn’t just studying to become a travel advisor; I was finally pursuing the dream I had never truly let go of.
How has your journey evolved since graduating from The Travel Institute?
I’m still at the beginning of my journey, but graduating from The Travel Institute has given me the knowledge and confidence to take the next step. I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and building my career in travel. Most of all, I look forward to helping people create meaningful experiences and memories that they will treasure for a lifetime.
What’s your favorite part about helping others experience the world through travel?
My favorite part is seeing the excitement that comes with someone’s first trip of a lifetime. Knowing that I had a part in helping them plan an experience they may remember and talk about for years to come is what makes this so special to me.
What’s one cultural experience that left a lasting impression on you?
One cultural experience that has stayed with me is experiencing the charm of European towns and seeing how different everyday life can be from what we’re used to at home. It reminds me that travel is about so much more than seeing the sights. It’s about slowing down, connecting with a place, and experiencing the world in a different way.
What skills from The Travel Institute have made the biggest impact in your career?
The Travel Institute has given me a stronger understanding of the travel industry, from planning and researching destinations to understanding my clients needs. Most importantly, it has taught me to listen, ask the right questions, and pay attention to the details that can turn a trip into a truly memorable experience.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their travel industry journey?
Do not give up! If this is your dream then pursue it.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in an industry that’s constantly changing?
I stay motivated by continuing to learn and reminding myself why I chose this career in the first place. It gives me an opportunity to keep growing and discover new destinations.
If you could only pack 3 items for a trip around the world, what would they be?
Good Walking Shoes, Phone, Electric toothbrush
What’s one place on your travel bucket list that you haven’t crossed off yet?
British Isles
