Global Experiences Inspire Bright Future for UWTSD Tourism Graduate
A student who moved to Wales from Poland with no knowledge of English is celebrating graduating from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), having transformed her passion for tourism into valuable industry experience and lifelong memories.
Wiktoria Kuciarska, 21, was born in Poland and moved to Merthyr Tydfil with her family 10 years ago. After adapting to a new culture and learning English, she chose to study International Leisure and Tourism Management at UWTSD, a decision inspired by a conversation with Programme Director Jacqui Jones during a college visit.
“Before speaking to Jacqui, I didn’t think university was the right path for me,” said Wiktoria. “Her encouragement and enthusiasm for the course completely changed my perspective, and I knew it was something I wanted to pursue.”
Throughout her studies, Wiktoria embraced opportunities to gain practical experience, volunteering at events through the university’s partnership with Swansea Building Society Arena and completing a summer placement at Universal Orlando Resort’s Volcano Bay in Florida.
Her biggest achievement came during her final year when she and five fellow students planned and delivered the Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT) Conference at Swansea Building Society Arena. The event welcomed a record-breaking 670 attendees and provided an opportunity to inspire the next generation of tourism professionals.
“It was an incredible experience to organise an event on such a large scale,” she said. “Working as part of the team taught me the importance of communication, adaptability, and staying calm under pressure. It was also amazing working alongside my close friends for the event because it wouldn’t have been so easy without supporting each other.”
Wiktoria said the course has helped her grow both professionally and personally.
“The practical opportunities, industry connections and placement experiences have given me confidence, independence and the skills needed for a career in tourism. Living and working in the United States was a life-changing experience that pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me develop in so many ways.”
Wiktoria is now looking forward to beginning her career in the tourism industry and hopes to continue building her experience while developing professionally within the sector.
“I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in tourism,” she said. “It offers so much more than classroom learning, giving students real-world experience, valuable industry connections and the confidence to succeed.”
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071