Executive Director Dave Dennis with members at MoMA during the SYTA 2024 Conference.
This month, the Student Youth Travel Association (SYTA) Conference in New York City brought together leaders and professionals from across the student travel industry. It was an event filled with educational opportunities, valuable networking, and, as always, a sense of community that makes SYTA so special. For those who couldn’t attend or are looking to revisit the key moments, here are some of the highlights and takeaways that stood out to us.
Important Topics in Student Travel
Two educational sessions at the conference particularly captured my attention:
The Role of AI in Travel Organizations: AI is no longer a futuristic concept; it's a present-day reality that is reshaping how travel organizations operate. The session explored practical applications of AI, from understanding potential pitfalls of over-reliance on AI content to enhancing data analytics for better decision-making. Travel organizations that harness AI effectively can enhance their operational efficiency, personalize travel experiences, and better market to key audiences. Recognizing the importance of this technology and learnings from the SYTA conference, Cornerstone is planning to host a webinar to bring this learning to our community.
Human Trafficking Awareness and Child Protection: Another session delved into the critical issue of human trafficking, both domestically and internationally. It was a sobering reminder of the responsibilities travel companies and their suppliers have in understanding these risks and calling attention to situations where inappropriate activity is suspected. At Cornerstone, we’ve spent a lot of time building child protection policies to assist our members, and this educational session introduced us to an organization dedicated to furthering this important work. As an outcome, we plan to deepen this relationship and bringing this expertise to members.
SYTA CSTO Certification and Crisis Response Planning
A key topic that garnered much interest was the SYTA CSTO (Certified Student Travel Organization) certification. Many experiential education organizations are eager to attain this certification, recognizing its value in promoting safety, trust, and credibility. It seemed obvious to us that Cornerstone members have a strong advantage here - having all the documentation and support in place to meet requirements.
Cornerstone is uniquely positioned to assist operators in navigating the CSTO certification process. Our expertise in crisis response and safety planning can provide the support necessary to meet certification standards and ensure that organizations are prepared for any eventuality.
A Strong Community Makes a Difference
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the SYTA Conference was the vibrant sense of community. It was evident that SYTA has cultivated a network of professionals who not only care deeply about the student travel industry but also know how to have a good time. This conference was one of the best attended since COVID, and full credit goes to the conference committee for putting together such a well-organized and engaging event.
The seller/buyer appointments were another highlight of the conference. The visibility and recognition of Cornerstone as a trusted reference within the industry gave our members a significant advantage in conversations with potential partners.
What’s Next?
The SYTA Conference was not only an opportunity to learn and grow but also a chance to reconnect with old friends and make new connections. The event provided valuable insights into the current trends and challenges facing the student travel industry, and we’re excited about the opportunities ahead.
Let’s continue to work together to advance the standards and practices that make student travel a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all.