Growing up, I was raised to believe in a conventional path to success: attending university, securing a job in my field, getting married, purchasing a house, and starting a family. This was the same roadmap my parents followed and passed down to my sister and me. It was also the advice given by the high school guidance counselor as the key to a fulfilling life. In 2016, as I completed my second year in biomedical engineering at the University of Guelph, I was on track with this trajectory.
After unsuccessful attempts to secure a summer engineering job in Ontario, I unexpectedly landed a position at a horseback trail riding outfit in Banff National Park. While this diverged from my planned path to success, my childhood experience riding horses on our family farm in southern Ontario reassured me that I could excel in this role.
In Banff, I had the chance to fulfill my childhood dream of exploring the rugged Rockies on horseback. I guided guests through pine forests, drove horse teams along the Bow River, and led visitors to elk-filled wildflower meadows, relishing the beauty of the mountains.
Through seasonal work, I encountered remarkable individuals who reshaped my perspective on a fulfilling life. I met career-break takers in their late twenties, travelers funding their journeys through seasonal jobs, and individuals dedicated to seasonal work year-round, alternating between summer and winter jobs. These friendships profoundly influenced my definition of a meaningful life.
The bonds formed during my time as a trail guide were unlike any others I had experienced. Living and working closely with colleagues for extended periods fostered deep and enduring connections. Some of my closest friends today are those I met in Banff, like Katie and Phil from Australia, who visited my family home in Utopia, Ont., for their first Canadian white Christmas in 2016.
Despite the inevitable goodbyes that come with seasonal work, the valuable lessons and relationships I gained outweighed the temporary nature of these connections. Seasonal work taught me that success can be achieved through different paths and that genuine happiness comes from surrounding oneself with positive influences.
My journey led me to work at a ranch in Cranbrook, B.C., after graduating with an engineering degree, pursuing my cowgirl dreams despite initial skepticism from my family. While it deviated from their expectations, they eventually recognized how seasonal work enriched my life with diverse experiences and lasting friendships.
Currently working in international sales, a role that allows me to continue exploring the world, I credit my confidence to pursue this career to my time in seasonal work. The outdoor challenges and independent problem-solving skills I honed as a guide have been invaluable in my professional journey.
Though past expectations may have dictated a different career path, embracing my aspirations has led me to a fulfilling life that I cherish. Seasonal work taught me to embrace change, explore new horizons, and prioritize enjoyment, shaping my understanding of true living.
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