BSAP Profile: Catching up with Alina
BSAP winner talks about what's next
Meet Alina Doaga.
She’s a hard-working, organized graduate of the British Columbia Institute of Technology and one of 12 winners of the Baxter Student Ambassador Program (BSAP) from 2017.
Doaga’s win secured her the trip of a lifetime to Barcelona courtesy of program sponsor Transat, and she took time out of her busy schedule to talk with Travel Courier about how the BSAP program has inspired her and what’s next for her career.
Travel Courier: What did you love about Barcelona?
Alina Doaga: The architecture, the streets, the sea, the Gothic Quarter, it was all so gorgeous and made me feel very immersed in the culture. The food was spectacular! We made every effort to eat at authentic Spanish restaurants and were never disappointed.
TC: How has this trip impacted your career plans?
AD: This trip motivated me even more! I want to experience as many different cultures as possible, and gain a better understanding of how to positively impact the travel industry.
TC: What did you gain from participating in BSAP?
AD: Participating in BSAP not only gave me the opportunity to travel to Barcelona, but also a great sense of accomplishment. I am extremely proud of myself for going through this program and being able to travel and experience new things. Above all, I learned that taking risks in life can be daunting, but also so rewarding.
TC: Would you recommend BSAP to future graduating students?
AD: Absolutely. The program is an amazing way to get your name out there and really show the industry what you have to offer. I’ve made some great contacts through my participation in BSAP, and I’m inspired to continue to push myself in every aspect of my life to find the next reward, the next milestone, and the next challenge.
TC: What’s on your bucket list?
AD: Oktoberfest in Munich and the Serengeti in September to see the migrations.
Baxter Media is pleased to have Transat back as a BSAP sponsor for the upcoming year, as we expand the program to an unprecedented 17 schools across Canada. And one of the lucky winners will receive the Transat prize, a trip for two to Lisbon, Portugal, now a full-time route for Transat.
“Transat is very proud to encourage and support the next travel industry professionals in their learning experience through the Baxter Student Ambassador Program, which offers concrete mentoring and a real opportunity for students to grasp the essence of tourism and its opportunities,” said Geneviève Kieffer Després, communications advisor, Transat. “We believe the next generation of professionals will play a great role in helping the citizens of the world discover our great planet in a sustainable way”
This year, 17 winning Ambassadors will have the opportunity to choose a once-in-a-lifetime internship or travel prize from program sponsors like Baxter Media, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, Collette, Contiki, Elmhirst’s Resort, Goway, Jamaica Tourist Board, Merit, Niagara Helicopters, WestJet, ACTA, Big Bark Graphics, and TIAO.
BSAP applications for the 2018-19 season are open now until Dec. 31. Interested students at participating schools should visit www.BaxterAmbassadors.com for more information.
Baxter Ambassador Alina Doaga is currently working at IT/IQ Tech Recruiters in Vancouver, BC. Follow her adventures on Instagram at @alinadoaga.