Go to grow: tourism student's life-changing exchange trip

Learn more about the Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management. 

Elisa Paranich spent a semester abroad as part of her studies in the Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management program. It was a life changing experience and one she recommends to any fellow students considering an exchange. Paranich  shared, in her own words, what her semester studying abroad at Western Sydney University in Australia meant to her. Here’s what she said:

Classroom and Learning Experience

Studying in Australia felt very aligned with how we learn at Royal Roads. The classes were focused on discussion, collaboration, and practical application, which I really enjoyed. That approach works especially well in tourism, because from my experience in the industry so far, so much of the learning happens through real interaction, not just theory. I felt like I was connecting what we studied in class with what I could actually do in a real setting. 

One of my favourite courses included a volunteer assignment at a tourism event of our choice. I volunteered at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, which is a large cultural and agricultural event. Being part of the on-site operations gave me a clear understanding of what it takes to run a major event. It helped me see how tourism can create community connection while also welcoming visitors from outside the region. That experience definitely helped classroom theory feel real and meaningful.

Cultural and Travel Experience

Outside of academics, the exchange pushed me to grow on a personal level. It was my first time living away from home for six months, and the adjustment was harder than I expected at first. I had to sort out housing, learn my way around a new city, and build a sense of stability with no familiar support system. There were moments where I felt lonely or overwhelmed but finding confidence in myself became a major part of my time there.

Once I settled in, I started to feel a stronger sense of connection to my environment. Australian culture felt warm, welcoming, and community-focused, which helped me adapt more easily over time. The outdoor lifestyle stood out to me as something really special. People spend time in parks, on the beach, walking around neighbourhoods, and just enjoying public spaces. Each suburb of Sydney had its own character. Some were tourism-centered, some were more relaxed and coastal, and others were creative and arts-based. Newtown became one of my favourite areas to explore and it helped me feel rooted in the city in a more local way.

Impact on Academic and Career Goals

This experience helped clarify the direction I want to take within tourism. I realized that what matters most to me in this field is people, culture, and connection instead of just destinations or attractions. It also reminded me of the value of stepping outside familiarity. Leaving Victoria and my usual learning environment pushed me into new situations that helped me grow both professionally and personally.

Tourism is not only about travel or physical places. It is about the feeling of belonging, the stories that are shared, and the relationships formed between visitors and communities. My time in Australia helped me see that more clearly.

Final Reflections

I returned home with a stronger sense of independence, confidence, and purpose. The exchange helped me build resilience and adaptability, but it also deepened my understanding of what meaningful tourism looks like. It showed me that people feel connected to a place when they feel welcomed, understood, and included.

Overall, this experience reminded me why I chose this field. I want to help create those kinds of moments for others in my future work.

Learn more about the Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management.