Growing up, I was raised to believe in a traditional path to success: pursuing higher education, landing a job in my field, getting married, buying a house, and starting a family. This narrative was passed down from my parents and reinforced by the guidance counselor at my high school as the formula for a fulfilling life. As I wrapped up my second year studying biomedical engineering at the University of Guelph in 2016, I was diligently following this trajectory.

My post-academic plan was to secure a summer engineering position to enhance my resume. Despite my unsuccessful attempts at landing jobs in Ontario, I unexpectedly found employment at a horseback trail riding establishment in Banff National Park. This opportunity deviated significantly from my planned career path, but my extensive childhood experience riding horses on our family farm in southern Ontario gave me confidence in my ability to excel in this role.

In Banff, I reveled in exploring the rugged Rockies on horseback, fulfilling my childhood dream of riding in the mountains. As a guide, I led guests through pine-filled forests, drove horse teams pulling covered wagons along the pristine Bow River, and escorted visitors to scenic wildflower meadows teeming with elk.

I discovered that a fulfilling life doesn’t necessarily involve a desk job and climbing the corporate ladder. To me, a good life now means cherishing the simple pleasures, like savoring a peaceful morning before a bustling day or taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of our surroundings. It also encompasses enduring a long day’s work in the rain, numb toes, with the promise of warming up by the fire with a cup of tea after the shift.

Engaging in seasonal work introduced me to remarkable individuals who have become lifelong friends. I encountered career-breakers in their late twenties, international workers funding their travels through seasonal jobs, and individuals committed to seasonal work year-round, alternating between summer and winter roles and traveling during the off-season. These friendships reshaped my perception of a fulfilling life.

The bonds formed with my colleagues as a trail guide are unparalleled to any others I’ve cultivated in academic or settled work environments. Living, working, and sharing meals with coworkers around the clock for months on end fostered deep and enduring connections.

While bidding farewell to these friends after intense periods of togetherness was challenging, the enriching experiences and invaluable lessons learned outweighed the transient nature of seasonal work relationships. These interactions underscored the realization that there are diverse pathways to success and that surrounding oneself with positive influences is paramount.

My journey led me to work at a ranch in Cranbrook, B.C., post-graduation, pursuing my cowgirl aspirations despite initial skepticism from my family regarding the perceived deviation from my engineering degree. Witnessing how seasonal work broadened my horizons and facilitated profound friendships eventually won over my family’s support, despite their initial reservations.

Currently employed in international sales, a role that allows me to continue exploring the world, I credit my seasonal work experiences for instilling the confidence to pursue this career path. While I cherish my current job, there are moments when I yearn for the simplicity of life in the mountains with the horses.

In retrospect, my past self may have been disheartened by my divergence from the engineering field. However, I am content with the life I have fashioned by following my passions and creating a fulfilling existence. Embracing new experiences, exploring uncharted territories, and enjoying the journey have been the quintessence of the lessons seasonal work taught me about the essence of living.