How Did a Love for Travel Lead Miranda to a Tourism Career?
For Miranda Lans, a Bachelor of Tourism at William Angliss Institute wasn't just a study choice - it was a pivotal step toward turning a lifelong curiosity into a meaningful career.
Miranda first discovered the Institute thanks to her high school careers counsellor, and a distinctive orange course guide that stood out among the options. "Growing up, I was fortunate to travel with my family on both domestic and international trips," she said. "These experiences sparked my interest to work within the tourism and travel Industry."
Inspired by William Angliss Institute’s unique offerings, she also appreciated that it wasn’t the typical choice among her peers. “I liked the thought of going on a different educational path than the majority,” she recalled.
Speaking to an Angliss alumni student, at Open Day in Melbourne, further confirmed Miranda’s decision to enrol in the Bachelor of Tourism. “Listening to her experience encouraged me to look further into the different subjects within the course. Realising that the degree covers the broad tourism industry, which would assist in securing a job, was reassuring,” reflected Miranda.
Learning Through Challenges, Friendships and Support
Miranda’s student journey wasn’t without challenges, particularly studying during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the supportive environment and smaller class sizes at Angliss, made all the difference. “I never felt like just a number, I felt like a valued student,” she said. Early friendships helped ease the transition to online learning, and the return to campus reignited her motivation. “One of the most rewarding aspects of my course was forming lifelong friendships with peers who shared my commitment to the tourism sector.”
She fondly recalls lectures from enthusiastic teachers who left a lasting impression. “Zdenka’s lectures on Resort Operating Systems, Paul’s Designing the Visitor Experience, and Philip’s Tourism Futures all had a great impact on me.”
Another standout aspect of the course was the networking opportunities, particularly through the engaging guest speaker sessions active in the tourism industry, providing students with insights that brought classroom lessons to life. “It was incredibly valuable to hear directly from people working in the field and get practical insights,” she shared. “What’s even more exciting is that some of the guest speakers I listened to during class are now people I work alongside in my current job. It’s a full-circle moment!”
The course helped her grow. “I became more confident, self-aware, and appreciative of diverse working styles. I learned not only about the visitor economy, but also about myself,” she said.
Miranda was also an active participant in the Higher Education Mentorship Program and received the Sir William Angliss Higher Education Scholarship in her final semester. These experiences helped her further build networks and the scholarship enabled a much-needed laptop upgrade to ease the stress of final assessments.
Thriving in a Role that Shapes the Visitor Economy
Since graduating, Miranda has made her mark in Victoria’s tourism sector. A casual conversation with a peer led to her first industry role at The Westin Melbourne, followed by valuable time with Helloworld Travel. But it was a connection from her Angliss network that opened the door to the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC).
Today, Miranda is excelling at the VTIC, where she plays a key role in the accreditation team as Member and Industry Advisor (QTF). “I’ve now been with VTIC for over two years and feel incredibly proud of the relationships that I’ve built with operators I never imagined I would connect with,” she said.
“The supportive and driven work culture at VTIC keeps me motivated every day. I feel
fortunate to be part of such a welcoming team. Our CEO, Felicia Mariani, is an inspiring leader, someone I admire for her confidence, clarity, and unwavering passion for the industry,” added Miranda.
Miranda is especially proud of her contribution to helping major organisations like Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary achieve Sustainable Tourism Accreditation. “It’s so rewarding to see that impact.” She credits her studies with giving her industry-ready experience, citing subjects like Risk and Legal as directly applicable to her current work.
Looking ahead, Miranda is excited to growing within the industry. I hope I’m still waking up every day and loving work,” she shared.
Her advice to aspiring tourism professionals is simple yet enthusiastic: “Go for it! There’s a world of welcoming and wonderful teams ready to show you the ropes. Come aboard!”
Learn more about our Tourism Courses, email enquiry@angliss.edu.au or call +613 8595 5334 for more information.
