Georgia Cook
Client Manager – Life and Health, Gallagher Bassett
Master of International Tourism Management with Honours (First Class)
Bachelor of Arts in Event Management and Tourism
The focus on people and their experiences is what first inspired her to study event management and tourism, says Georgia Cook who completed a Bachelor of Arts in Event Management and Tourism, followed by a Master of International Tourism Management.
“Event management captivated me with its mix of creativity, coordination and the ability to create meaningful experiences that bring people together. Meanwhile, tourism appealed to me with its emphasis on building connections across cultures while pursuing sustainable development through a balance of economic, social and environmental factors.
“After I finished my Bachelor of Arts, I decided to enrol in a Master of International Tourism Management because I wanted to refine my problem-solving skills, challenge myself in new ways, and contribute meaningfully to tourism and society. My master’s thesis explored the planning, design, and delivery of environmental education and interpretation in an ecotourism setting. The guidance from my supervisors and real-world insights from industry connections were invaluable, making the process both challenging and rewarding. I also had the privilege of presenting my research at the 7 Experiences Summit Conference AUT was hosting.”
She had plenty of highlights throughout her time at AUT.
“The creative and hands-on assessments were a highlight. Projects like running an airline simulation, designing visually engaging events, developing a tourism plan for a waterfront attraction and creating a social media campaign for a tourist attraction allowed me to apply theory to real-world scenarios. In my final year, I also gained workplace experience at an event management company where I could build practical skills and gain industry insights.
“I also appreciated the variety of study environments at AUT; whether it was a quiet corner in the library for focused work, group study rooms for collaboration or the student lounges where you can recharge. These spaces made it easier to stay productive, collaborate effectively, and strike a balance between study and downtime. Another standout for me was being able to give back to the university through peer mentoring and working as a marking and research assistant. That was a deeply rewarding experience.”
Making a positive impact
After graduating with her master’s degree in mid-2024, Georgia has moved into a very different industry and loves her role at Gallagher Bassett, New Zealand's leading provider of claims and risk management solutions.
“My journey from studying event management and tourism to transitioning into insurance has shown me that skills and knowledge can be applied across various fields. I’ve discovered that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact is valuable regardless of the industry. It’s possible to pursue diverse paths while staying true to my interests and values. While I haven’t entered the event management and tourism industry directly, the skills I developed during my studies – including communication, customer service and collaboration – are invaluable in my current role. The foundation I built at AUT has equipped me to thrive in this dynamic environment and make a meaningful impact in the insurance sector.”
Knowing that her work has a positive impact on clients gives her a profound sense of purpose and fulfilment.
“I’m responsible for the administration and management of a portfolio of group life and health insurance clients across a range of New Zealand’s leading insurers. My responsibilities encompass comprehensive policy administration and claims processing, including life and funeral claims, as well as travel and medical claims for seasonal workers. I take great pride in the positive impact I’ve made by helping clients navigate difficult situations and ensuring they receive the support they need during critical moments in their lives.
“What I enjoy most about my role is the constant opportunity to learn and develop new skills. Each day brings new challenges, allowing me to expand my knowledge of the insurance industry. I also appreciate the collaborative and supportive nature of our team. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie, and it’s inspiring to be part of a team where everyone shares a common goal and is always willing to assist one another.”
Advice for other students
Georgia – who is proud of completing her master’s degree with first-class honours and of receiving a Dean’s Award for Excellence in Postgraduate Study – has some great advice for other students.
“My advice resonates with the quote, ‘She believed she could, so she did.’ This serves as a powerful reminder to embrace your potential and pursue your goals with confidence. Don’t hesitate to seek support when you need it – the AUT community is incredibly welcoming, with numerous resources available to guide you on both your academic and personal journey. Most importantly, keep an open mind and be willing to adapt; you may uncover new interests and opportunities that align with your goals and values.”
She also encourages future students to get involved in university life.
“Participate in events, become involved in student services and engage in volunteer opportunities. These experiences will enrich your time at AUT and help you build connections while developing essential skills.”
