Janine becomes UnderWater World executive
University of the Sunshine Coast graduate Janine Symons is keen to make a splash during USC’s Orientation Week from 15-19 February.
Janine has just become UnderWater World’s new Sales and Promotions Executive, and is eager to tell the University’s 3,000 new students all about the iconic tourist attraction at Mooloolaba.
UnderWater World will be one of about 50 local organisations providing displays on the main day of O-week on Tuesday 16 February.
Janine finished her Bachelor of Business (Tourism) degree in 2005 and has since worked for a variety of companies in marketing and promotional roles.
At UnderWater World, she is responsible for managing functions and sponsorship activities, attending tourism expos and networking events, and liaising with tourism organisations and accommodation providers.
“It’s very exciting,” she said. “I studied tourism at university, but this is the first time that I’m actually living and breathing it.
“I’m glad I studied tourism, because the industry would be challenging to get your head around otherwise. It is such a large and complex industry, and it’s rather fragmented as well.”
Janine wants to develop stronger links between UnderWater World and the University by offering special deals for students – particularly international students – and internship opportunities for those studying marine science or tourism.
“Coming along to UnderWater World will give students a real-life look at a large and unique tourism operation in action, right at their doorstep,” she said.
Janine has kept in close contact with USC academics Gayle Mayes and David Gration who inspired her in subjects like Event Management and Event Marketing.
“David has done so much and has a lot of real-world experience behind him,” she said. “And Gayle was always very positive and passionate about what she was teaching, and that’s always contagious.
“I liked the whole university life … the social aspect, attending lectures, speaking out in lectures and debating a little bit. Mature-age students tend to speak up a bit more in lectures, and this makes it a more dynamic culture overall.”
— Terry Walsh