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Sami Saghir graduated with his bachelor of science in tourism and events management from George Mason �鶹���� in August of 2024. The last component before completing his degree from the was working with the  KURIOS show. He recieved a full-time job offer after this experience and entered his career with Cirque Du Soleil post-graduation. 

Originally planning to focus on hotel management, Saghir did his practicum at the Marriott Hotel in Fairfax, Virginia.  

“I’m grateful that we have the practicum built into the program because although working at the hotel was a good experience, I was able to see that I wanted to explore different places within my field,” said Saghir.  

Saghir’s career path was also affected by his professor, .������

“She brought in so many people from different fields during our event planning class. I was on a really narrow track, so it was a very eye-opening experience to learn about the different jobs that fall into the hospitality tourism field,” he said.������ 

Saghir discovered his passion for Cirque du Soleil when he worked there as an usher at their Tyson’s Corner location in 2022 during his sophomore year.������ 

“I was a local hire because they use a staffing agency to hire about 120 staff members to work as ushers, food and beverage, or merchandise employees in each of the cities they’re touring in,” said Saghir.������  

Saghir’s supervisor, who tours with the company, encouraged him to learn more about it and consider working there after the 2022 Tyson’s performances.������   

When the tour returned to Tyson’s Corner the following summer, Saghir connected with his former supervisor and said he was interested in pursuing Cirque du Soleil as a career post-graduation.  

“I thought it was so fascinating, and I now have a full-time job with them, touring year-round as their guest experience supervisor,” he said.������

As guest experience supervisor, Saghir is responsible for ensuring that every guest has a memorable and enjoyable experience by assisting all front of house departments, including ticket services, ushers, food and beverage, and the exclusive VIP experience to ensure seamless operations and exceptional service.������

Saghir also hosts behind-the-scenes events, offering guests an insider's look at the magic of Cirque Du Soleil and collaborates closely with the sponsorship team at headquarters to ensure sponsor expectations are met. Additionally, Saghir works hand-in-hand with the local staff hired in each city to maintain high standards of guest satisfaction.������ 

“At the end of the day, it’s a circus, so no day is ever really the same as another one, and it also changes from city to city,” said Saghir.  

For this position, Saghir has traveled to Montreal, Canada, Mexico, and Europe.

“It was a career that I really wanted to pursue, so I just put myself out there, and showed my experience and enthusiasm about the job,” said Saghir.������

“I would tell other students that if there’s something you really want to do with your life, just go for it and don't hesitate,” he said.