Madison Meloche is graduating from the Tourism Management – Business Development program proud of the self-confidence, diverse skills, and career opportunities she’s gained from her time at NC.
We catch up with Meloche to learn about her NC story and exciting career ahead.
Tell us why you came to NC and how your dream has evolved?
I came to NC because the Tourism Management – Business Development program seemed to have a more holistic approach to tourism than other similar programs. I wanted training in more than just one sector and my professors definitely provided that. This program has opened countless doors for me, many that I didn’t even know existed. I entered this program thinking I wanted to be a tour guide or travel agent because those were the only job titles that I knew. Now, I have the confidence to work in any of the industry’s many sectors because of the diverse course load and excellent professors I had at NC.
Tell us your favourite non-academic NC memory
Fall 2022 will always hold great memories for me. My two closest school friends had never gone to a pumpkin patch or carved a pumpkin before. We picked out pumpkins, laughed at funny-shaped gourds, and took silly photos. Afterward, we went to a store where I tried my first empanada, a Colombian drink, and a crunchy Mexican snack. Sharing each other’s cultures was an amazing experience that we wouldn’t have had without connecting at NC.
What is one thing you experienced at NC that you didn’t expect?
I didn’t expect to be one of very few domestic students in my program. Most of my class was from different parts of the world and I think that was a huge contributor to the excellent caliber of my cohort. Everyone was able to bring something unique to the table from their own experience, culture, education, and country. It was a great experience for me as a Canadian to learn to work with different people, and now I have friends from all over the world.
Now that you’re starting your career, what tools did NC give you to set you apart from your peers?
Having confidence in myself and my range of expertise are the best assets my NC professors gave me. The capstone courses my last semester were also directly applicable to the industry, and I now have several projects to add to my portfolio when seeking employment.
Who would you like to thank for helping make your NC journey and dream a reality?
I would like to first thank my Professor and Program Coordinator Janet Jakobsen. She immediately offered support and counsel when I had questions about this program and my career path. She was a wonderful professor and amazing support during the whole program. I would also like to thank Professors Patti Wallington, Chef Oz, Jenn Hall, Mary Beccario, Brian Beccario, and Kristina Inman for all the industry insight, exciting classes, and educational excursions, and most of all, for the support and encouragement over the past two years. This program was truly amazing for me because of these professors.
What is your dream job? If you’ve already landed it, what is it?
My dream job is to work for the Walt Disney Company at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. I’m so excited that I will be working there all summer through the Disney Cultural Exchange Program. I can’t wait to use the skills I gained at NC to help provide magical experiences for guests of all ages!
What are you most looking forward to about becoming an NC Alumni?
I am looking forward to keeping in touch with this wonderful network of friends, mentors, and colleagues that I have found in my peers and professors here at NC.
