From classroom to cabin crew: Alumna Rachel Bird shares her journey

Thurrock College welcomed South Essex Colleges Group alumna and Virgin Atlantic Cabin Crew member, Rachel Bird, who kindly delivered a presentation and Q&A with our Travel and Tourism and Air Cabin Crew students. 

During her inspiring session, Rachel shared insights into the aviation industry, including the application and interview process, training, rosters and the many destinations she has travelled to with Virgin Atlantic. 

Karen Doran, Teaching and Learning Specialist and Rachel’s former tutor said: “I was very excited to catch up with Rachel and hear all about her adventures. Sessions like these afford the learners the opportunity to hear from someone currently in the industry, that went to their college. 

The opportunity to speak with someone in a job that many of them aspire to, show not only that the college has a great success rate, but it’s a massive motivator for our learners to succeed. 

It’s inspirational when former students return to share their successes, I am extremely proud of her.” 

Rachel began her journey at Southend City College, where she studied Level 3 Aviation Operations. We spoke to her about her experience and her career path from college to cabin crew

 

Q&A with Rachel Bird, Virgin Atlantic Cabin Crew

Tell us a little about your time at South Essex Colleges Group and why you chose your course? 

I chose to study Aviation Operations because I had an interest in working in the aviation industry and wanted to learn more about it. During my time at the college I learned so much about all the different aspects of the industry through coursework and my tutor’s personal experience. Karen, in particular, sparked my interest in becoming cabin crew by sharing her own experience of working for Monarch.

What I loved most about studying at South Essex Colleges Group was having knowledgeable tutors and the resources I needed to achieve the best results possible. After leaving college, I built my customer service skills in my previous job before applying to Virgin Atlantic earlier this year.

What does a typical day look like for you as Cabin Crew at Virgin Atlantic?

There’s no such thing as a typical day when you’re cabin crew. Different destinations, aircraft and crew means that every shift is different, which I love. Meeting new people every day and exploring destinations around the world are some of the best parts of the job. It’s an amazing perk of the job.

How did it feel to return to SECG to speak to our Cabin Crew and Travel and Tourism learners?  

Getting in contact with Karen and returning to the college was a real full-circle moment. Knowing how far I’ve come since being at college myself, getting to talk to the students so they can hear from someone in the industry felt so important. It was helpful for the students to really get an insight into the requirements and lifestyle of the job.

Did you receive any interesting questions from our learners and if so what were they?

I had so many interesting questions from students relating to all different aspects of the job. I think it’s so beneficial for students to be able to ask questions and speak to someone in the role and get answers they may not be able to otherwise.

What advice would you give to our learners who want to become cabin crew and work in the aviation industry one day?

I would advise learners to be determined and show their passion for the role. Don’t give up if you’re knocked back by a rejection, as I certainly had those too! 

Work hard, both in college, throughout your time training and beyond, and it will definitely pay off. 

And finally, enjoy the process of applying and the excitement of the achievements you’ll get. From getting accepted, to passing training, to completing your first flight, there are a lot of things to celebrate when you become cabin crew!

 

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