Grace Stelmachowicz, a resident of Squamish, B.C., shares her journey in this First Person reflection. Raised with the conventional belief that success meant pursuing a university education, landing a job in one’s field, getting married, buying a house, and starting a family, Grace found herself on a different path in 2016. Despite studying biomedical engineering at the University of Guelph, her summer took an unexpected turn when she secured a job at a horseback trail riding establishment in Banff National Park. This deviation from her planned career trajectory led her to rediscover her childhood passion for horseback riding on the rugged terrain of the Rockies.
While guiding guests through the picturesque landscapes of Banff, Grace embraced a new perspective on what constitutes a fulfilling life. She learned to appreciate simple pleasures like quiet mornings and moments of gratitude for her surroundings, even amidst challenging 16-hour workdays in adverse weather conditions. The seasonal job introduced her to a diverse group of individuals, including career breakers in their late twenties, international travelers funding their journeys through seasonal work, and full-time seasonal workers transitioning between summer and winter roles.
The friendships forged during her time as a trail guide in Banff were unlike any other, characterized by deep connections formed through shared experiences and close-knit living arrangements. Despite the transient nature of seasonal work, the bonds endured, exemplified by enduring friendships with colleagues like Katie and Phil from Australia, who celebrated a Canadian Christmas with Grace’s family in Utopia, Ont., in 2016. These lasting connections, albeit punctuated by inevitable goodbyes, reshaped Grace’s understanding of success and emphasized the value of relationships built on positivity and shared experiences.
Post-graduation, Grace pursued her passion for ranch life in Cranbrook, B.C., much to the initial skepticism of her family. While her unconventional career choices diverged from their expectations, they eventually recognized the personal growth and fulfillment she derived from her experiences in seasonal work. Transitioning to a career in international sales, Grace credits her time as a guide for instilling in her the confidence and problem-solving skills essential for her current role. Despite the allure of her current job, she occasionally yearns for the simplicity and freedom of her days in the mountains with horses.
Reflecting on her journey, Grace acknowledges the evolution of her definition of success. Embracing change and pursuing her dreams have led her to a life she loves, demonstrating that success is not confined to a predefined path but is a dynamic concept shaped by individual growth and experiences. Her message is clear: embrace exploration, try new things, and find joy in the journey, as seasonal work taught her the true essence of living life to the fullest.