Name: Julie Ginsburg
Major/Minor: Sustainable Tourism Development
Graduation Year: 2022 and 2025
What was your experience before coming to Salem State?
After graduating in 2022, I struggled to determine what to do. I had to look into what made me happy. That was traveling and working in downtown Salem during peak tourism season. I reached out to Salem State’s navigation center, and they connected me with Lorri Krebs to discuss a new program for sustainable travel and tourism. I am truly blessed that the timing aligned for me to start this program and continue doing what I love.
Why did you decide to attend Salem State?
Salem, Massachusetts, has always meant so much to me. Growing up, my family would always take day trips to the downtown area in October. It already felt like home. I chose to go to Salem State because as soon as I toured the campus, I just knew it felt right. I loved how close together the campus was and the sense of community I felt while being there.
What made you choose the major that you did? Did you consider any other options?
I chose to go back to Salem State to continue my education in travel and tourism in 2023, after already graduating in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science degree in sport & movement science and a minor in psychology. I noticed how happy I felt while traveling, planning trips, and working in downtown Salem as a waitress for five years. I loved interacting with all the tourists and recommending things they should do while visiting, so I realized I should try to make a career out of it!
Professor Lorri Krebs has had the greatest impact on me. She was the first person I talked to about continuing my career, and she was with me every step of the way. I can’t express enough how much she has helped me through this journey at Salem State. I have never had a mentor in my life who took the time to make sure I succeeded, and I really appreciate how much she has done for me, both while I was getting my certification and afterward. Anyone would be lucky to have her as a professor.
Was there a specific out-of-classroom learning experience that was especially significant to
your career preparation?
I had the privilege of working at the Executive Office of Economic Development as one of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism interns through the summer and fall of 2024! I got to be a part of so many amazing projects, and I feel so lucky to have worked alongside such talented people.
What was one of your favorite moments at Salem State?
At the end-of-the-year Geography Awards, I was honored to receive the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism Award by the Awards Committee for the geography and sustainability Department. This award was started 20 years ago by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism to honor a student from an institution of higher education in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts who excels academically while also balancing a job. I was also recognized as the first student to graduate with the sustainable tourism development certificate at SSU. This award had not been given to a recipient in over 10 years, and I am beyond thrilled to have had the opportunity to be chosen. Having my family and friends there when I received this award made it even more special to me.
What advice do you have for prospective students thinking about following in your footsteps?
I absolutely loved my time at Salem State while pursuing my certification in Sustainable Tourism Development. Don’t be afraid to tell your professors or advisors what you are interested in pursuing. They are there to guide you and will make sure you are on the right path for the career you want. Also, don’t be afraid to apply for jobs or internships that might seem out of reach. The worst thing they can say is no!
What do you wish you had known before starting college?
Everyone says it, but your college years fly by so fast. Take everything in and don’t take anything for granted. Join all the clubs you want, go to school events, and hug your friends tight, because before you know it, you’ll be walking across the stage to receive your degree.
What is your best advice for future students?
Get close to your peers and professors! Ask the questions you’re embarrassed to ask, and reach out to the person you sit next to in class. Those are the people who will be with you throughout your college career, so it helps to have them by your side on your journey.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Salem State is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I’ve met my best friends, a soulmate, and have had so many opportunities come my way that wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t fallen in love with this school and campus.