Let me take you back to 2014 - a time of “Frozen” soundtracks, questionable selfies, and, for me, the moment I got the life-changing email: “Congratulations, you’ve been named to Destinations International’s 30 Under 30!” Cue the happy dance (which, thankfully, didn’t make it onto the internet).

I thought it was just going to be a cool accolade for my resume, maybe some networking, and a free conference registration. Spoiler alert: I was so wrong. This program turned out to be the gift that keeps on giving, shaping my career and my approach to leadership in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Here’s how it all went down—and why I’m still deeply involved with the 30 Under 30 Alumni Committee today.

Leveling Up: Lessons You Can’t Google

When I joined 30 Under 30, I quickly realized this wasn’t your average professional development gig. Sure, there was a great conference to kick off the acknowledgement, but the real magic was in the people. The industry pros who took the time to talk to us, those that we, the 30 Under 30 members, got to learn from had more wisdom and war stories than a travel guide to Europe. They didn’t just talk about big ideas - they gave us actionable tips on how to thrive in an ever-changing industry.

And while my 2014 self thought, “Great, I’ve learned all I need to know,” the truth is, the learning never stops. Being part of this program is like having a subscription to an endless stream of knowledge—minus the auto-renewal charges. Whether it’s through webinars, conferences, or random email chains with other alumni, I’m constantly getting fresh insights to bring back to my work.

The Networking Jackpot

Let’s talk about the network. When I say “network,” I don’t mean those awkward happy hours where you exchange business cards and then forget who’s who by the end of the night. The 30 Under 30 alumni community is different. It’s like being part of a secret club where everyone genuinely wants to help you succeed.

Being an active member of the 30 Under 30 Alumni Council has been incredible for making these connections even stronger. Need advice? Someone’s got your back. Have a big win? This group will cheer for you louder than your mom at a Little League game. It’s this kind of support that’s been game-changing for my volunteer role as the Professional Development Chair of the Indiana Tourism Association.

I’ve used ideas and connections from this program (and the broader Destinations International network) to create programming that resonates, inspires, and, most importantly, gets results. Whether it’s organizing events or creating opportunities for mentorship, I know I’ve got the best brains in the industry to tap into for help.

A Career Springboard (and a Confidence Boost)

Another huge bonus? This program has been like rocket fuel for my career. It’s been instrumental in helping me tackle my Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) journey - a path that’s equal parts rewarding and whoa, this can be intense. Through 30 Under 30, I’ve gained the tools and the confidence to approach challenges with strategy and creativity.

Every step I’ve taken - from working on economic impact initiatives to collaborating on big-picture project - has been shaped by the lessons I’ve learned through Destinations International. It’s like having a cheat code for your career: you still have to put in the work, but the path forward becomes a lot clearer. (And let’s be real: if you’re familiar with the up-up-down-down-left-right-left-right-B-A-start grandfather of all cheat codes, you probably know someone who deserves to be nominated for the 30 Under 30 program - because your government ID might indicate you’re over 30 like me).

Why You Should Care

If you’re considering applying (or nominating someone) for the 30 Under 30 program, let me tell you this: Do it. This isn’t just an accolade you hang on your wall - it’s an invitation to join a community that’s invested in your growth for the long haul. You’ll get tools, knowledge, and friends who’ll help you navigate the wild, ever-changing landscape of tourism.

As for me? I’m still dancing - this time with the confidence of someone who knows she’s part of a movement that’s driving our industry forward. So here’s to more growth, more connections, and more moments where we can all say, “I’m so glad I took the leap.”

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have an Alumni Council Zoom to jump on. There’s work to do - and a lot of laughs to share along the way.