A Student Journey Fuelled by Passion and Purpose

For Ethan Scriven, the path to the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) wasn’t linear, but it was transformative. Like many students whose academic journey was disrupted by the pandemic, Ethan had to adapt quickly and rethink his future. What began as a shift in plans has turned into a deeply rewarding experience filled with growth, connection, and unexpected opportunities. 

And today he graduates with a first-class honours degree in International Travel & Tourism Management at a ceremony at Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall. 

Initially planning a career in the police force after studying Public Services and Outdoor Sport in college, Ethan found himself re-evaluating during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I wasn’t ready for university at that point,” he admits, so he took on a BTEC in Travel and Tourism at The College Merthyr Tydfil instead. That period of pause and reflection led to a conversation with programme manager Jacqui Jones, a turning point that brought him to UWTSD to study International Travel & Tourism Management. 

What drew Ethan to the course wasn’t just the curriculum, it was the real-world experiences it promised. “The opportunities, close connections with industry links, and hands-on experiences were what really stood out,” he says. 

His ambitions were rooted not just in professional development, but in personal growth. “My aim was to build confidence, understand the industry, and most of all, become a better version of myself.” 

The course delivered more than Ethan expected. From immersive field trips to high-profile work placements, he took on a wide range of roles that pushed him out of his comfort zone and deep into the travel and tourism industry. Some of his standout experiences include: 

• Pitch Manager for Mitours 

• Bar and hospitality staff at major sporting events, including Wales vs England in the Six Nations 

• Summer camp counsellor through CCUSA in the U.S. 

• VIP staff at Ironman events 

• Conference host for ITT Future You Wales 

These roles didn’t just build his CV, they built his confidence, resilience, and ability to navigate the fast-paced, people-centric world of tourism and events. 

Ethan’s journey hasn’t been without hardship. He faced significant personal challenges, including a family bereavement and stress about academic performance. But he didn’t face them alone. “By talking to Jacqui Jones and engaging with other students, I was able to keep going,” he shares. “That support network helped me focus on enjoying uni life and taking my mind off the hard stuff.” 

Ethan speaks passionately about what this course has given him and what it can offer to others. “This course not only gives you a degree, but leaves you with experiences, volunteer roles you’d never think of, friends for life, and an array of confidence!” 

In June, Ethan was preparing for one of his most exciting opportunities yet: speaking at the ITT Future You 2025 conference in Sardinia, Italy. He was on a panel discussing AI and its impact on the tourism industry, offering insight into how his generation views the changing landscape of work. 

“This is just the start of my journey,” he says. “And I’m excited to see where the road takes me.” 

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476