A team of first and second year Tourism students from Thompson Rivers University has taken first prize in the recent 2008 Tourism ” Hospitality BC Student Case competition.

Jenn Pallett, Raizy Marmorstein, Andrea Smith and Fredrik Elf won the case challenge that was “How to Attract and Retain Generation Y Employees”, taking top honours in the diploma level, tourism category over competing teams from University of Victoria, BCIT and Capilano College. The students won a $1000 prize and the recognition of the industry attendees.

“The experience of competing was very valuable, winning was just a bonus,” said Raizy Marmorstein a second-year Tourism events and conventions management diploma student. “As Generation Y (people born between 1980 – 1995) we reflected on what we want and expect from an employer.”

What is their advice to the BC tourism industry looking to attract, train and retain the elusive Generation Y? “Offer a Mentor Match program within the whole tourism industry as well as within individual organizations,” Marmorstein said. “Being able to continuously learn and develop through education is key.”

The group will be offering their award winning insight to employers at TRU’s Job Fair on Thursday, March 13 at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm (Campus Activity Centre, C130).

Even though the degree team did not win in their category, they worked very hard as well. Leah Peden, Natasha Howell, Shannon McKee, Jenny Liang and Niki Yim, along with their student coach Jamie Mayes made a good presentation on how BC can double tourism revenues in a sustainable manner.

Contact:
Lian Dumouchel,
School of Tourism
250-828-5220