Emily Prickett Wants to Promote ‘Mindful Travel’ That Creates a Lasting Positive Impact

Emily Prickett is a senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in parks, recreation and tourism management at NC State. She recently received the Travel and Tourism Research Association’s John and Joan Markham Tourism Marketing Award and is the fourth NC State student to earn this honor.

Prickett currently works with NC State Tourism Extension associate Ann Savage as an undergraduate research assistant and is currently completing an internship with the Johnston County Visitors Bureau. This past summer, she completed a marketing internship with Martin County Tourism and Economic Development.

Prickett serves on the executive board as secretary for the Tourism Management Association at NC State. As part of her club duties, she keeps record of meetings, assist in planning events and creates graphics for the events. The association provides a network for students who plan to enter the tourism industry.

NC State writer Emma Gosalvez recently spoke with Prickett about her decision to study parks, recreation and tourism management at the College of Natural Resources and what she hopes to accomplish going forward.

Why did you choose to study parks, recreation and tourism management?

Emily Prickett: I originally got into studying tourism because I took an elective class my freshman year of college that introduced me to the industry. It was then that I realized that working in tourism provides so many diverse career opportunities. As someone who enjoys adventuring and discovering new things, this immediately appealed to me. The industry is always changing, and I wanted to pursue it because I love to create and innovate. 

Growing up, I knew I wanted to make a positive impact through whatever career path I chose. Once my eyes were opened to the potential that tourism has to improve the quality of life for communities, educate visitors, and even preserve the natural beauty of our world for future generations, I decided that it was going to be my means of making a difference. 

What is your favorite memory or class from your time at NC State?

Prickett: I have greatly enjoyed having the same group of fun and kind people in almost all of my classes. Because the classes are smaller and typically only one time is offered, it creates a community of students that get to go through it all together. I have appreciated that aspect of my time at NC State, and I will fondly look back on those memories.

What are your career goals?

Prickett: I hope to work in the tourism marketing field. I have experience interning with two different destination marketing organizations, and I look forward to finding more ways to get involved with other organizations. I want to leverage my career to promote mindful travel that creates a lasting positive impact on the tourists and the residents within a destination. Tourism is powerful, and I believe it can be used to improve the quality of life for communities everywhere.  

How has the College of Natural Resources prepared you for your future?

Prickett: The faculty within the College of Natural Resources have greatly prepared me for my future. They have equipped me with practical knowledge of the industry and jump-started my networking by connecting me with numerous professionals in tourism. Thanks to NC State career development resources and my professors going above and beyond, I have had the opportunity to gain experience in the exact field I hope to work in. This kind of preparation is priceless. 

What advice would you give to students entering your major?

Prickett: My advice is to invest in your education. I have seen how this department can provide you with so many resources and opportunities, but it is up to us to seek them out. So, go the extra mile to attend that event, volunteer at the posted opportunity and apply for those special programs or awards that you hear about. It will pay off in the end.  

Tell us about something you are passionate about outside of your academic studies.

Prickett: Outside of tourism, my favorite job is coaching basketball. I have coached at a local basketball academy since I was 14, and I still occasionally coach there on the weekends. I also travel to Czechia to coach basketball for my church’s annual mission trip. It is a fun way for me to connect and encourage kids while also fostering a healthy love for competition. I hope I continue to get opportunities on the side to spread the joy of basketball through coaching and playing.