Now more than ever, the Baxter Student Ambassador Program plays a vital role in the long-term survival of the travel industry. In its ninth year, the program continues to work with colleges and universities across Canada to identify the most promising student talent in travel, tourism, and hospitality programs.
Travel Courier caught up with 2019 Baxter Student Ambassador, Dani Berezowsky, to hear about her career steps after she graduated, how the pandemic has affected her plans in unexpected ways, and advice she has for this year’s winning Baxter Student Ambassadors. Berezowsky is an exemplar of the up-and-coming talent in the industry and a reminder to us of why BSAP matters.
What have you been up to since being named a Baxter Ambassador in 2019?
Since 2019, I moved from Ontario to British Columbia and have stayed working in the tourism industry. From working as an outdoor tour guide, snowshoe guide, tour coordinator, marketing coordinator and train host, I have covered all kinds of sectors in the travel and tourism industry. I also got married to my lovely husband and I have started a new chapter in my life!
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I am currently working as the Marketing Coordinator at Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours in Vancouver. Working closely with the marketing and design team, we execute various emails, campaigns and create engaging content. It’s a creative work environment and every day is different from the next. The atmosphere at Scenic is positive and fun and I truly enjoy it!
Has the pandemic affected your career plans at all?
Yes and no. Before 2020 my partner and I had planned on moving to work in Europe or New Zealand. When the borders closed, we stayed on the West coast and decided to move to Vancouver from Whistler. I ended up getting my dream job working on the rocky Mountaineer and I never would have applied if I hadn’t moved to Vancouver. And now I work in a new area of tourism, with Scenic Luxury Tours, and I owe it to staying in Vancouver.
What’s one item on your travel bucket list, and why?
Since 2018 I have dreamt about travelling to the Faroe Islands. I told myself when I graduated college that I would go but it did come at a cost. Fast forward to 2020, my partner and I had everything all booked and ready to go for 3 weeks! Then the pandemic hit and we had everything cancelled. Since then, we have gotten married and plan to go next summer!
Have you had any notable travel experiences since BSAP?
Last July my husband and I travelled to Budapest, Prague, Vienna and all-around Croatia. Everything was beautiful, from the architecture to the charming little cafes. We never planned how we would spend our days and it turned out better than I could have ever imagined. From hopping on the Budapest Eye Ferris Wheel to drinks and dining at the bohemian boat restaurants along the river in Prague. Would go back in a heartbeat.
What did you gain from participating in BSAP?
I gained multiple connections with other tourism professionals through events and different networking opportunities. Participating in BSAP provided me with valuable experiences, skills and knowledge to use in my future career endeavours. The Baxter Student Ambassador Program helped me gain a deeper understanding into the tourism world. I am thrilled to have been part of the program.
What is one thing you learned about yourself during the BSAP program?
While participating in the BSAP I learned my strengths and weaknesses, and how they have helped me better understand my career goals and aspirations. Additionally, I learned my true passion for the travel and tourism industry.
Do you have any advice for this year’s BSAP winners as they step into their careers?
The travel and tourism industry is a roller coaster, take advantage of every opportunity because you never know which experience might lead you to a valuable connection and an even more rewarding outcome. My advice is build your network, create new connections, stay engaged and be open to new experiences.
What’s next for you in terms of your career steps?
Since starting the position with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours I look forward to building my career in this role as Marketing Coordinator and creating those connections and to continue learning and growing as I pursue my career in the travel and tourism industry.
