Explore the World with Travel OCC: Orange Coast College’s Student-Run Travel Agency Launches!

COSTA MESA, Calif. (KABC) — Organizing your upcoming retreat just became far more straightforward with assistance from Travel OCC, a student-operated travel agency on the campus of Orange Coast College.

Travel OCC is comprised entirely of students enrolled in the Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism program, equipping them with essential internship hours necessary to finish their study while remaining on campus.

The students gain practical experience by operating a comprehensive travel agency.

“Travel involves a lot,” mentioned student Heather Krause. “There are tours, cruise lines, flights, and it’s not a simple task.”

Travel OCC officially commenced this month on Travel Tuesday, a day when travel businesses provide excellent discounts on flights.

“You can actually visit Travel OCC. It’s a very customized experience,” explained Travel OCC Director Dr. Katherine Collette. “You can engage in a face-to-face discussion with an intern travel agent.”

Student Nicole Masuda is thrilled to be involved in the program.

“Younger individuals can come in, even if they don’t know much about travel agencies,” she expressed. “If they’re looking for a quick vacation during summer, they can swing by here and sort it out. I think it’s quite fascinating.”

The full-service agency is overseen by professionals from the industry and certified travel consultants.

“There is so much out there. Countless cultures, diverse people that you may not recognize while you’re here in Orange County. You exist in your little bubble,” remarked Krause.

Collette stated that not only can the agency assist in saving you time, but the students are also capable of organizing and booking a journey for you.

“As we are experts in travel and tourism, we can often leverage our relationships with suppliers, hotel partners, flight packages; we might even be able to help you save some funds,” she noted.

The launch of Travel OCC has proceeded smoothly thus far. Students aspire for the agency to keep them aligned with their aspirations in the travel sector.

“I want to be kind to others, or work alongside individuals in hospitality, and what better way than to be a flight attendant or operate at a travel agency or a hotel, spaces where individuals frequently gather to enjoy themselves,” expressed Masuda.

“After attending these classes and observing how enthusiastic the instructors are, you feel excited about it as well,” shared Krause.

Travel OCC aims to assist not solely students and alumni but the entire community.

For additional details, feel free to reach them at info@travelocc.com or call 714-432-5821.