Where are they now? Almuni finds success after BSAP

1) What have you been up to since being named a Baxter Ambassador in 2020?

It feels like it has been quite a whirlwind over the last two years being new to the tourism industry during the course of a pandemic, but I wouldn’t take any of it back. I have seen it as an opportunity for growth, gaining lots of experience by working with different organizations. I was the Executive Assistant for Friends of Lower Fort Garry, a well-known Canadian Historic Site. Currently, I am working part-time as a tourism strategist with Tansi Tourism Solutions while also working as a Youth Care Worker with underprivileged youth. 

2) Has the pandemic affected your career plans at all?

The pandemic definitely made it difficult to find a job after graduation with most companies doing massive layoffs; however, I managed to work throughout it all. The positions may have not been what I initially expected but they all led to great skill development and career growth.

3) What’s one item on your travel bucket list, and why?

I have been itching to go to Costa Rica where you can rent a jeep with a tent built into the roof. I would love to spend a month backpacking and exploring the beautiful scenery. I absolutely love the outdoors and I know that Costa Rica has one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, that is why it is number one on my bucket list.

4) What did you gain from participating in BSAP?

The experience helped me gain confidence in my presentation skills and it also led to new connections with fellow BSAP participants and members of the tourism industry. It has also been a great addition to have on a CV or LinkedIn profile for someone who is new to the industry. I gained a whole new network of professionals in the tourism industry thanks to this opportunity.

5) What was it like presenting a live webinar as part of the BSAP program?

Presenting a live webinar for the BSAP program was both nerve-wracking and exciting as it gave me a great opportunity to share my knowledge of the tourism industry and the destination I had to present on. Presenting is a very important skill in this industry, making it a great chance to both practise and show-off my capabilities. It definitely gave me a boost of confidence for my future presentations. 

6) What is one thing you learned about yourself during the BSAP program?

I learned the importance of properly preparing and practising for presentations, if not in everything you do. I realized after my presentation that I spoke a mile a minute and I learned that I need to take the time to slow down when presenting. 

7) Would you recommend BSAP to future graduating students?

I most definitely would. BSAP can lead to many new connections within the tourism industry which have already led me to employment and travel opportunities. Having real tourism professionals see and evaluate your work is also a great way to challenge yourself.

8) BSAP finalists will be selected in February. Do you have any advice for the next group of applicants?

The best advice I would give to any of the participants is to be yourself, enjoy the process rather than get stressed by it, and SLOW DOWN when presenting. I know I have a tendency of talking fast when I get passionate, especially when presenting.