Follow Delainey Hart, as she recalls her first summer working and living in Fairmont's Mountain Region...
"I vividly recall the exhilarating sensation of embarking on a grand adventure, a leap of faith that would redefine my path. It was a pivotal moment, a decision to uproot my life and venture into the untamed beauty of the Canadian mountains. Before commencing my journey into university life, I yearned for a transformative experience that could push me out of my comfort zone. With only one familiar face awaiting me in my newfound destination, I felt a blend of excitement and apprehension swirling within me as I packed my bags, loaded up the car and started driving westward towards the promise of adventure. Little did I know the impact that summer was going to have on the rest of my life.
From the moment you arrive, you become part of a tight-knit community bonded by shared experiences and a love for the mountains. Working alongside people from diverse backgrounds fosters connections that often turn into lifelong friendships. Whether you're serving guests in a restaurant at the iconic Banff Springs Hotel, entering your new career as a marketing manager at the mountain chic Jasper Park Lodge, joining a top housekeeping team at the renowned Chateau Lake Louise or curating the most spectacular calendar of resort activities at one of Canada’s biggest playgrounds, the Chateau Whistler Resort, the camaraderie among colleagues creates a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and included.
Stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new challenges is essential for personal growth, and a summer job in Fairmont’s Canadian Western Mountain Region offered me ample opportunities for just that. Whether it was learning new skills in hospitality, adapting to a seasonal lifestyle, or conquering fears through outdoor adventures, each experience contributes to your development as an individual. Overcoming obstacles and thriving in a dynamic environment instills confidence, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment that extends far beyond your time in the mountains.
Looking back, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the courage it took to embark on that journey. In the tapestry of life, that summer stands as a vibrant thread, weaving its way through the fabric of my existence. It is a testament to the power of taking risks, of stepping outside our comfort zones in pursuit of something greater. That summer in the mountains taught me the importance of embracing the unknown, of daring to venture beyond the confines of familiarity in pursuit of growth and fulfillment.
Embarking on a summer adventure in the mountains, away from the comfortabilities of your home town, may seem daunting at first, but the rewards far outweigh any initial uncertainties. As you look back on your experience, you'll cherish the memories made, the friendships forged, and the personal growth achieved. You'll be grateful for having the courage to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unknown. The decision to seize the opportunity will leave you with a profound sense of fulfillment and a lifetime of stories to share.
So, to anyone contemplating a similar leap of faith, I offer this advice: embrace the unknown, seize the moment, and embark on the journey of a lifetime. For in the end, it is not the destination that defines us, but the journey itself."
-Delainey Hart
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Ready for an adventure? Visit FairmontMTNJobs.com to learn more about what it's like to live, work and play in Fairmont's Mountain Region.