Introducing Soyoung Park
Meet Soyoung Park, Assistant Professor at Florida Atlantic University and a member of the SETTRA Board for nearly two years. In her role, she conducts research at the intersection of social sustainability, resilience, identity, and advanced data analytics—leveraging data mining and econometric modeling to translate complex patterns into meaningful industry insights. She works closely with students and industry partners to bridge academic rigor with practical application.
What is your current role with your organization?
At FAU, I conduct research focusing on the intersection of social sustainability, resilience, identity, and data analytics in the tourism and hospitality industry. I work closely with students and industry partners to bridge academic insight with real-world impact.
What is your current role as a board member of SETTRA?
I have served on the SETTRA board for almost two years! At this time, I serve on the SETTRA Academic Committee. We are always looking for meaningful ways to engage students and share knowledge that connects academic research with real-world practice.
Where It All Started
What initially drew you to the travel and tourism research field?
My career in tourism started in Madrid when I interned at UN Tourism. As a young professional, observing how nations and international organizations interact and collaborate to keep the tourism industry vibrant strongly resonated with me. At the same time, seeing how tourism transforms a community fascinated me. I wanted to learn more about the mechanisms behind such changes and started my academic journey at Penn State, and eventually to Florida Atlantic.
Board Perspective
What inspired you to get involved with the SETTRA board / What have you enjoyed most?
Serving on the SETTRA board has connected me with a wonderfully diverse group of people and perspectives. These conversations have broadened my thinking and strengthened my appreciation for the thoughtful work so many individuals quietly contribute to our industry every day. It has also pulled me out of my academic bubble in the best possible way, reminding me of the value of staying deeply connected to the people and practice of tourism.
Advice & Outlook
What advice would you give to emerging professionals interested in research or data in travel and tourism?
Curiosity and rigor. You should be genuinely curious about how and why the industry operates the way it does, and look for patterns that others might overlook. At the same time, you need to build a strong methodological foundation. It will give you the tools to turn your curiosity into insights.
Fun & Personality
What’s one surprising fact about you?
I love crafting. It’s my guilty pleasure…Most recently, I made a valentine’s box shaped like Elsa’s castle for my daughter!
Outside of research and data, what’s your favorite way to recharge?
Travel is always my best way to recharge. Whenever I am at the edge of burning out, I go somewhere, close and far, away from my “usual environment.” Planning those getaways calms down my nervous system.
What destination is currently at the top of your must-visit list?
Denmark! I love their designs and the cozy concept of hygge. Their child-friendly environment is a plus ☺
Get In Touch
TTRA is a highly respected and established organization dedicated to advancing the standards of travel and tourism research and analysis. With its focus on excellence, professionalism, quality, and inclusivity, TTRA is the go-to source for professionals in the industry seeking to stay ahead in their field.