After receiving his degree from Northern Marianas College, Jack Aranda has been instrumental in elevating the visitor experience in the CNMI. As a Community Projects Coordinator for the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA), he not only enhances tourists' stays but also unites the community to celebrate the beauty of the islands and the local culture.
“I was always interested in the hospitality field as I enjoy interacting with many tourists who visit our islands,” Aranda said.
Aranda graduated from NMC with an Associates in Applied Science in Hospitality Management in 2022, and has coordinated memberships of MVA and several events such as Marianas Tourism Month, World Tourism Day, and Christmas in the Marianas. He also works closely with the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) to educate the youth about the importance of the tourism industry in the CNMI.
According to Aranda, his NMC education broadened and polished his skills, which now serve him well in his current role at MVA.
“NMC has created a solid foundation for my career in MVA,” Aranda said. “NMC assisted me in developing vital skills from writing, communicating, and getting a better understanding of the tourism industry.”
Aranda credits his motivation in pursuing his career in hospitality to his family and close friends.
“My motivation behind pursuing a degree includes my parents, friends, and close family members who have always supported me throughout my studies. I would also like to thank my fiancé Christine Roque for always pushing me. She has supported me from the start to the finish and I cannot thank her enough for all that she has done. I would also like to thank MVA and my boss Martin Duenas for allowing me to pursue my education, and working a schedule to balance school and work at the same time. All this would not be possible without their support for a higher education, and for that I thank them,” Aranda said.
When asked about the most rewarding part of his job, he attributed seeing the enjoyment of others partaking in his events.
“The most rewarding aspect of my job is seeing others enjoy the events I coordinated and knowing I was able to create those special memories for the community and for those who visit the island,” Aranda said.
Aranda shared a message to current students of NMC pursuing their higher education.
“One piece of advice I would give to current NMC students is to continue to work hard for what you believe you can achieve. There may always be setbacks, but there is no limit to what you can accomplish.”