From the Whanganui River to the Caribbean Sea

From the Whanganui River to the Caribbean Sea

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It’s a long way from the Whanganui River to the Caribbean Sea for Sam Mackey.

The Whanganui River and the Caribbean Sea are half a world apart, but the distance has been dramatically reduced for 19 year old Whanganui UCOL student Sam Mackey.

A graduate of the Certificate in Sports Performance (CESP) programme, Sam has recently started a dream job as personal fitness trainer on the Jewel of the Seas cruise liner in the exotic location. It is his first ‘real’ international travel experience.

Sam admits his enrolment for the CESP at Whanganui UCOL was originally intended to fill a gap year before embarking on university study.

“I have always been interested in the scientific aspect of fitness and the industry’s constantly changing technology. Whanganui UCOL’s sport programme taught me a lot about the opportunities this profession presents.”

Sam believes his CESP qualification was an important factor in his appointment to his dream job and gave him a distinct advantage over the hundreds of hopefuls who also applied online.

“The UCOL certificate is very well regarded in the industry,” he says.

Sam began his nine month contract with Royal Caribbean in January and is based in Miami. He manages the on board gymnasium, leads fitness classes and gives seminars for the luxury liner’s passengers.

Sam hopes to have the opportunity to extend his contract with the cruise line. “My plan is to work overseas for a year or two and perhaps return to study physiotherapy. It’s going to be wicked!”

ENDS