Behind all of the dream trips and unforgettable adventures are the ETI team members who help make them a reality.
Donna Adam, President of Educational Tours, Inc., joined the ETI team in 2005 as its Accounting Department Supervisor and was quickly promoted to General Manager. Her enthusiasm for the company and industry is infectious, and she’s determined to use her position to see as many students as possible enjoy the unbelievable transformative power of travel. Donna has earned her Certified Student Travel Professional designation from the Student & Youth Travel Association. Take a moment to get to know Donna!
What is your favorite part about your job?
“Working with my team. I’ve learned from the best people in the industry. All but one of our team members has been with the company longer than me—and that one started a few months after me. They taught me all about this industry, and continue to teach me every day. What we do as a team is also at the top of my list. We help educators take their students to destinations to give them the opportunity to learn about different cultures—different people—different lives. And they have fun! They create memories with their classmates. That’s priceless!”
What’s your most treasured travel memory, or the best thing you’ve learned while traveling?
“My most treasured memory is visiting the Garden of Gethsemane in Jerusalem. I don’t think my heart stopped racing the whole time we were there. The best thing that I’ve learned is not to judge. Open your heart to the destination you’re visiting and take it all in.”
If you were stranded in an airport, what three things would you want with you?
“A book, a second book in case I finish the first one, and a comfortable seat. I’m so happy when I can lose myself in a book. And if I need a break, I just need to lift my eyes and people watch!”
What’s one thing you would recommend every student group do while traveling?
“Talk. Talk about what you’re seeing and how it makes you feel. Talk about how you might feel if you were living in the destination. Talking allows you to get to know each other—not as the kid who sits to the left of me in class, but as a person. Make memories out of these conversations that will be treasured for a lifetime!”
What destination on your bucket list do you most want to visit?
“Alaska and New Zealand!”
What’s your favorite activity while traveling, or something you’ve always wanted to try?
“I’m not faint of heart. I’m game to try a lot of things—both food and activities. One time I ate a cricket (yes, on purpose!) and another time I went parasailing. I’m not a fan of either one, but it’s fun to experience new things! But my all-time favorite thing to do is visit NYC and go to Broadway shows. Their talent is unbelievable! I cannot wait to get back there!”
You can reach Donna at 800.654.4560 ext. 508 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
