Back in 2024, I applied for a study abroad trip through my university, not realizing just how much that decision would change my life. Through the power of travel and unexpected opportunities, I discovered a new path—both personally and professionally.
How It Started:
Hi! I’m Kade Bergeron, a senior Mass Communication student at Nicholls State University. I’ve been fortunate to combine my love for writing and travel through an internship with the educational student tour company, EA Tours.
During my junior year, I applied for a study abroad trip offered through the Nicholls State Honors Program. After navigating the application process and handling the required documentation, I was approved for a two-week summer adventure to Germany and Austria in 2024.
I was ecstatic to be part of such an incredible journey alongside my peers in Louisiana. I had only traveled abroad once before, and visiting Germany—one of my dream destinations—felt surreal. EA Tours thoughtfully tailored and organized the trip, and as our departure date approached, my excitement only grew!
My Experience with EA Tours:
You know the saying, “You never know when opportunities will come?” That perfectly describes how EA Tours impacted my life.
The turning point happened atop a mountain in Innsbruck, Austria. While our group was exploring and enjoying the breathtaking scenery, I struck up a conversation with Tom Barnette, the President and Co-Founder of EA Tours. We talked about his background, his journey, and how EA Tours came to be one of the leading student travel companies. That conversation stuck with me—and sparked something bigger.
As we spoke, I shared my goals and career plans. Before I knew it, I mentioned the idea of completing my college internship with his company. What started as a casual conversation quickly turned into a life-changing opportunity.
Since then, EA Tours has given me more than just the chance to travel and earn college credit. It’s taught me valuable lessons about business, storytelling, and professionalism. Over the past four months, I’ve been able to publish several blogs, all while learning and researching topics for my fellow educational travel enthusiasts.
More importantly, EA Tours introduced me to the idea of socially responsible business practices; where purpose and people matter just as much as running a business. I came with EA Tours for a student trip, and I left with experiences, skills, and published work that helped launch my career. I now have the privilege of working with the Louisiana Department of Education right after my graduation in May 2025.
What set me apart from other candidates for this new role was my storytelling ability and background in article research. Both qualities stemmed from a short conversation that was on top of a mountain in Austria one year prior. Traveling truly changed my perspective, and I bet in one way, shape, or form, it can do the same for you.
My Advice to Future Travelers:
If you’re considering taking part in an educational student tour with EA Tours, do it! It will surely be an unforgettable one.
You’ll embark on an adventure that you’ll talk about for the rest of your life. The friendships you form will surprise you, and the personal growth will stay with you long after your return. You’ll discover things about yourself that classroom walls can’t teach.
To everyone reading this: EA stands for Educational Advantage, and that name says it all. First, the Education—you’ll learn about history, culture, and global perspectives, but more importantly, you’ll learn about yourself. Second, the Advantage—this is your moment. Take it. Soak it in. You may only get one chance to explore the world like this.
One last note… if you happen to find yourself in Munich, Germany, do yourself a favor and try the pretzels. Trust me—you’ll thank me later.
Kade Bergeron
Student Traveler
