Australia calling: Meet the ITC graduates working across the Tasman
Dozens of ITC graduates have moved to the likes of Sydney (pictured), Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth to pursue their travel and tourism careers.
A funny thing happens when you study travel and tourism. You get bitten by the travel bug (if you hadn’t been bitten already!).
That explains why so many ITC graduates leave beautiful New Zealand to pursue careers abroad. Our alumni is scattered all around the world, from the US to the UK, from Tahiti to Thailand.
But no country has snapped up more talented ITC tourism graduates than Australia. We recently caught up with some of the graduates who are pursuing their tourism careers across the Tasman. Here’s a glimpse into their Australian lives…
Rahul Bhopatkar · Cabin Crew · Tigerair Australia
“After I graduated I moved to Melbourne to pursue my dream job as a cabin crew member,” says Rahul. He completed the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism and Travel (Level 3) in 2013, and has some advice for future ITC students.
“Stay focused on your goals,” says Rahul. “Talk to your tutors for help or tips about the industry.”
Rachael Southey · Backpacker Hostel Manager · Nomads Byron Bay
“My career has taken me to all of the hotspots throughout New Zealand and now Australia – for work and for pleasure,” says Rachael, who is living in one of New South Wale’s most idyllic beach communities. Byron Bay is well known for its relaxed, holiday vibe – think yoga, healthy street food, and plenty of sunshine.
That said, Rachael is still proud to call herself a New Zealander.
“Be proud of where you come from and learn what is in your backyard,” she says. “New Zealanders are known to be the nicest people from the most beautiful country. Be proud and wave that flag high.”
Ranjeeta Nair · Customer Service · Thrifty Car Rentals
“My dream job was to work at an airport, and now it has come true,” says Ranjeeta, who is now based in Brisbane. She moved to Australia after graduating in 2014.
“Focus on your studies and your dream,” she advises future students. “Your dream will come true.”
Linda Divitt · Cruise Ship Reservations Consultant · Princess Cruises
“I moved countries for better opportunities and better pay,” says Linda, who has been living in Sydney for over 10 years. She’s passionate about cruise ships and doesn’t see herself moving back to New Zealand anytime soon. You can read all about her dream job in the cruise ship industry here.
Raiha Hunt · Customer Services Officer · Jetstar Airways
“I moved overseas and now have three children,” says Raiha, who juggles motherhood with her job at Avalon Airport in Melbourne. She graduated from ITC in 2010 and has since enjoyed a thriving career in customer service.
“I love meeting new people, you come across some interesting people when working a customer service role,” she says. “That’s what I love about my job.”
Gabrielle Patrick · Wholesale Travel Agent · Infinity Holidays
“I get to make my client’s dreams come true,” says Gabrielle, who has been living and working in Brisbane for three years. She spends her days helping people book their dream holidays and credits ITC for helping her get to where she is today.
“Everything you learn [at ITC] will definitely benefit you in this industry so pay attention! You’re doing this course because you want to work in the industry, so don’t give up and maybe someday I’ll see you at Infinity Holidays.”
Hayden Wallace · Flights Team Leader · Luxury Escapes
“I live in Melbourne and currently work for Luxury Escapes, one of Australia’s fastest growing travel and ecommerce companies,” says Hayden. He currently leads a team of six staff. Hayden graduated from ITC in 2008 and began his career working as a Systems Supervisor at i-SITE Motueka.
“One of the best things I ever did was get further qualifications,” he says. “It made it much easier to get my foot in the door to the industry. ITC made everything a breeze and I’m so pleased this is the path I went down. Who knows if I would be where I am now without them.”
ITC is now enrolling for 2017. If you’d like to pursue a career in airline, travel, and tourism, get in touch today – we’d love to hear from you! And who knows, maybe your travels will take you to Australia?!
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