A placement that opened new doors: a graduate's blog

Students studying BA (Hons) International Travel and Tourism Management at University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) are encouraged to think big, take opportunities, and gain experience beyond the classroom. With placements and industry‑focused projects embedded within the course, graduates leave with far more than a qualification - they leave with confidence, experience, and direction.

One of those students is Scott De Lloyd, who graduated in 2025. In this piece, Scott reflects on his journey from university into luxury hospitality, sharing how placements, professional opportunities and academic support helped shape his ambitions and early career.

When I first started at UWTSD, I knew I wanted a career in the travel and tourism industry, which is why I chose to study it at degree level, having previously completed studies at NPTC Group of Colleges. But I could never have imagined just how many doors and opportunities would open to me.

One of the most memorable parts of my degree was having the chance to step straight into the industry while I was still a student. In the second year of my BA (Hons) in International Travel and Tourism Management, I completed a Professional Placement and Enterprise Project, an experience that would go on to shape my career far more than I expected. 

I went on to spend four months living and working in Highlands, North Carolina, completing a placement at Old Edwards Inn and Spa, a Relais and Châteaux property. This opportunity came from volunteering at the ITT Future You Conference in 2024, a major careers and industry event bringing together students, graduates, and employers from across the travel, tourism and hospitality sector. There, I was introduced by my programme director, Jacqui Jones to Yummy Jobs, a company that supports students and graduates into international hospitality placements - a connection that led directly to this incredible placement experience.

During my placement, I worked within the Rooms Division, gaining experience across front desk operations, guest services, and housekeeping. This hands-on exposure gave me invaluable insight into luxury hospitality and the importance of consistently delivering a high-quality guest experience.

Before coming to UWTSD, I didn’t quite have the confidence to fully take advantage of the opportunities available to me. The support from my lecturers, Jacqui Jones and Debbie Jenkins, helped me build that confidence and encouraged me to step forward and say yes to every opportunity that came my way. When I took on my placement at Old Edwards Inn & Spa, I couldn’t quite believe how fortunate I was to have such an opportunity as part of my degree, or what it would come to mean for my future.

Living and working abroad taught me not only about the industry, but also about myself. It showed me that I am capable of much more than I once believed and helped me become more independent, resilient, and open to new experiences. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that growth often comes from putting yourself in unfamiliar situations and trusting yourself to rise to the occasion.

After completing my placement, I returned to UWTSD to finish my final year. During this time, I was lucky enough to be part of the team that helped organise and deliver the ITT Future You Wales 2025 Conference. Being involved in an event of that scale, with over 600 delegates and exhibitors, was an incredible experience and really helped build my confidence, develop my leadership skills, and strengthen my ability to work as part of a professional team.

After graduating in 2025, I was excited to be offered a one‑year Manager in Training (M.I.T) internship back at Old Edwards Inn and Spa, starting in September 2025. Securing such an opportunity so soon after graduating felt incredibly rewarding and gave me the chance to continue building my experience within the world of luxury hospitality.

What truly excites me about working in hospitality is that it is an industry built around people, experiences, and creating forever‑lasting memories. From a young age, I have been very fortunate to travel the world with my family, creating memories from all corners of the globe. Those experiences sparked my desire to be part of an industry that can have such a positive impact on people’s lives.

Looking ahead, I am excited to continue learning and growing within the industry. Returning to Old Edwards Inn gives me the opportunity to build on my previous experience, take on greater responsibility, and continue developing as a young professional.

If I could offer one piece of advice to current or future students, it would be to make the most of every opportunity available to you. Get involved, attend events, build connections, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Some of the most valuable parts of my university experience came from what I did beyond lectures.

To anyone considering a similar path, I would say go for it. The travel, tourism, and hospitality industry can take you in so many different directions and offers incredible opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

As my lecturer, Debbie would say at the beginning of every lecture, “Unleash your inner lion” and who knows where in the world it might take you.

Further Information

Mared Anthony

Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations   
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: +447482256996