Cruise ship turnaround volunteering leads to job offers for two ITC students
Sesilia and Mayur during their work experience volunteering for Akorn.
We recently shared a story about ITC students who had volunteered to help out with cruise ship turnarounds. These kinds of opportunities are common for our students and graduates – and it’s also common for those volunteering roles to lead to greater things.
That’s been the case once again for Mayur and Sesilia from our Botany campus!
Success in the making
Mayur and Sesilia both helped out with cruise turnarounds, part of which involved working in hotels. Both students had originally been interested in working in airports or with airlines, and hadn’t considered working in hotels.
However, after doing a hotel tour with the concierge team at Sky City, Horizon, and The Grand, they began to see the possibilities.
We emailed their CVs through to the team at The Grand by Sky City, and both students not just got interviews – but began work in late April!
Mayur is a Front Office Representative, and Sesilia is a Concierge.
Sesilia’s story
We asked Sesilia about her experience with ITC and landing a great job!
What did you do before choosing ITC as your education provider?
Before choosing ITC, I was unsure about what career path to take, but I always had a passion for travel, airports, and helping people. I wanted to find something hands-on and meaningful.
How did you find out about us and why did you choose ITC?
I found out about ITC through social media and a few friends who had studied there. What stood out to me was the focus on aviation and real industry experience, which made me confident it was the right choice.What do you think ITC does different from other education providers?
ITC is different from other providers because they genuinely care about your growth. The tutors are supportive, the classes are practical, and you get real exposure to the tourism industry through work experience opportunities.
What is your most memorable moment at ITC so far?
My most memorable moment at ITC so far was working at the Cruise Turnaround — helping international passengers with check-ins and visas. It gave me a real taste of the industry and boosted my confidence with customer service.
What was your biggest learning from the work experience with the Cruise Turnaround? Did it inspire you to choose a particular career in future?
The biggest thing I learned from Cruise Turnaround was how important communication and teamwork are. It made me realise I love fast-paced environments, and it helped confirm my passion for a career in aviation and hospitality.
How did ITC support you with applying for the role at Sky City Grand?
ITC supported me fully when I applied for a role at SkyCity Grand. From CV help, interview preparation, and building my confidence — I felt ready and prepared.
Tell us about your new role?
My new role is Concierge at The Grand by SkyCity. I help guests with their needs, guide them with local attractions, and ensure they have an amazing stay. It’s all about service with a smile!
What are you excited most about your journey from here?
I’m most excited about growing from here — maybe even moving into airline customer service or becoming a flight attendant. The possibilities feel wide open now.
What advice do you have for others like you who might want to study tourism?
My advice to others thinking about tourism? Don’t wait. If you love travel, helping others, and want a career that’s exciting and people-focused, ITC is the perfect place to start your journey.
Mayur’s story
Of course, we also asked Mayur about his experience!
What did you do before choosing ITC as your education provider?
I was doing accounting work.
How did you find out about us and why did you choose ITC?
My father also studied at ITC.
What do you think makes ITC different from other education providers?
All the lessons are very practical, up to the industry standard, very supportive in career development.
What was your biggest learning from the work experience with the Cruise Turnaround? Did it inspire you to choose a particular career in future?
Biggest experience was how we can make the customer’s vacation more memorable for them. Yes it inspired me to choose a role where I can make the customer’s experience great and exceptional.
How did ITC support you with applying for the role at SkyCity Grand?
Everything including CV preparation, interview techniques and so on.
Tell us about your new role?
I will be a Front Service Representative and will be making the stay of guests memorable and enjoyable. Looking forward to it.
What advice do you have for others like you who might want to study tourism?
Travel & tourism is a great industry to work with, you will not feel you are working as you will enjoy every moment with happiness. Also there are plenty of opportunities. So go for it!! Make travel & tourism as your passion.
Enrol with ITC today!
Imagine studying at a college that not only provides you with an industry-recognised qualification, but also gives you opportunities for work experience that can even lead to a job offer!
Contact us today to learn more, or view all our course options here.
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