<p><span class="p-body">Traveling the world and paving the way for others to do the same is a dream come true for many <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-travel-and-tourism-management.html">MS in Travel and Tourism Management</a> students. This program places them at the center of this fast-growing industry, where they can learn from professionals who are already in the fold. Michael Moore is a current student who we recently caught up with to learn more about his background and hopes for the future after graduation. </span></p>
Meet Michael Moore
<p><span class="p-body">Michael Moore was born in Manhattan, and lived across New York and New Jersey before completing high school at Saint Joseph Regional in Montvale, NJ. He then earned his undergraduate degree in English from Fordham University, where his passion for travel started to grow. "I've always loved spending time with my cats, going to concerts, watching soccer, and reading, but nothing has captivated me like the idea of traveling." His early family trips to Orlando's theme parks were his first taste of travel, but it wasn't until college that Moore ventured outside the United States, sparking the desire to explore a career in the tourism industry.</span></p>
Drawn to NYU's Specialized Programs
<p><span class="p-body">Moore's pursuit of his passion led him to NYU's <a href="/content/sps-nyu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/jonathan-m-tisch-center-of-hospitality.html" target="_blank">Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality</a>, where the specialized MS in Travel and Tourism Management program caught his eye. "Graduate programs in subjects related to tourism are somewhat niche in the United States, and as someone who was interested in pursuing a career in the tourism industry, the Tisch Center of Hospitality seemed like the ideal place for me to begin this pursuit." He knew that NYU's renowned faculty, many of whom are industry professionals, would provide a unique learning experience.</span></p>
Perhaps the strongest aspect of SPS is the number of professors who are working professionals in the tourism industry, many of whom have decades of experience."
<p><span class="p-body">As a student, Moore has extended his academics beyond the four walls of the classroom by building relationships in the travel and tourism industry. In fact, the real-world insight provided by his professors helped him land an internship. "Their connections were crucial in helping me secure my current internship as a luxury travel advisor."</span></p>
Preparing for the Future
<p><span class="p-body">Looking ahead, Moore is excited to transition from his internship to a full-time role in luxury travel. The comprehensive nature of the MS program has helped him gain confidence. "Thanks to core classes like <i>Trends in Travel and Tourism</i>, <i>Data Analytics for Hospitality</i>, etc, I feel that I have been prepared for a variety of tourism related jobs that I previously may not have even been aware of." He also credits courses like Tourism Planning with Gavin Landry for giving him a deeper understanding of sustainability challenges in tourism. "I was given a new appreciation for how difficult it can be for a destination to strike a balance between accommodating tourists while also preventing overtourism."</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Reflecting on his time at NYU SPS so far, Moore emphasizes the importance of active engagement for success. "If you show up prepared and ready to engage with your professors, they will go the extra mile to help you succeed. It's all about making the most of the opportunities you're given."</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Transform your passion for travel into a thriving career when you pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-travel-and-tourism-management.html">MS in Travel and Tourism Management</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>