The future looks bright for BSAP alumni
Now more than ever, the Baxter Student Ambassador Program plays a vital role in the long-term survival of the travel industry. In its eighth year, the program continues to work with colleges and universities from across Canada to identify the most promising student talent in travel, tourism, and hospitality programs.
This month, Travel Courier caught up with Dhvani Gandhi, who was designated as a Baxter Student Ambassador in 2017, and now works at Intrepid Travel.
Since being named a Baxter Ambassador in 2017, I have grown my professional career in the travel industry as well as taken every opportunity to travel, especially in Canada. After graduating from Humber, I worked for two years at Goway Travel and then moved to Intrepid Travel, which was pretty much my dream company. In terms of my travels, a few special places that I have visited since 2017 are the Eastern provinces of Canada, Nunavut, Western Canada, Russia and Peru.
Like others in our industry, the pandemic caused a major disruption in my career goals and future plans. However, it has also helped me gain a new perspective as the world around us continues to change and become more digital. I am currently enrolled in a UX Design program to gain skills that I believe will become more relevant over the next few years. Travellers are evolving in the way they research and book trips. I hope to combine my knowledge as a travel professional with design skills to continue helping people explore the world.
This would definitely be Antarctica. I love adventure travel and visiting places off the beaten path. I think that, unfortunately, Antarctica will change as a destination over our lifetime and I want to be able to visit it and enjoy its beauty before that happens.
As BSAP was held at the end of the program, it helped me prepare for the “real world.” The process helped me gain self-confidence and provided me with great networking opportunities. I think it played a big role in providing me with the faith I needed in myself as I prepared for job interviews.
It was a great experience. In fact, it’s great practice for current times as presenting over a zoom meeting or webinar is common with remote working.
I am very shy around new people and do not enjoy public speaking. However, going through the BSAP process helped me hone my public speaking skills. It also helped me realize the value I am capable of adding to the travel industry.
I would definitely encourage future graduating students to participate in the BSAP program. It is a great learning and networking experience.
I know it’s hard to juggle assignment submissions, final exams, internships and BSAP requirements, but it is a very rewarding process. Try to enjoy the process and treat it as a learning opportunity instead of a competition.
BSAP 2022
BSAP wouldn’t be possible without the participation of our generous sponsors and partners – ACTA, SKAL Canada, and TIAO – who provide students with a helping hand to kick-start their careers.
To find out how you can lend your expertise in shaping the future of our industry through the Baxter Student Ambassador Program, visit www.baxterambassadors.com or contact us at [email protected]. #BaxterAmbassadors
