Amy Edmonds - BSc (Hons) Tourism Management graduate

“I developed as a person by studying at the University of Plymouth because I moved away from home and had to gain my own independence. From meeting new people and making friends to managing my time and finances, it was a fantastic experience.”

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

Since finishing University in June, I was successfully selected to become ABTA’s first intern which began on 1 July 2015. I have been working within the destinations and sustainability department undertaking research into a range of sustainable tourism initiatives. The internship was originally for one month and I had the opportunity to extend my internship on a roll on basis. However, as it was a temporary role, I began to look for permanent positions within the travel industry. I saw on Linkedin that TUI was advertising for a graduate trading assistant so I applied and I was required to attend a telephone interview and an assessment day. The following week I found out I was successful and I have just started my new graduate role, which involves managing revenue, profitability, and risk across the Thomson and First Choice brands.

Has your career path changed since graduation?

I never thought I would leave university and have the opportunity to work for a highly renowned and trusted brand such as ABTA (The Travel Association). It has been a great opportunity to learn about the challenges facing the travel industry and gain insight into how ABTA manages these challenges on a daily basis. I am also really excited to begin my new career working within revenue management at TUI.

What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?

Deciding which route to take after university has been the most difficult thing I have faced in my career. As my internship at ABTA was originally only for one month, I had to look for permanent positions elsewhere. I knew I wanted a career within the travel industry but it was really difficult deciding which career path, within travel, to take.

What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?

The most exciting thing I have done in my career would be my internship at ABTA. It has exposed me to the travel industry and I have had the opportunity to attend important meetings with key industry stakeholders. I have also launched Travelife’s social media websites (Facebook and Twitter); the marketing manager and I set up a Facebook advertising campaign and it was great to see the followers dramatically increase, raising the brand awareness among consumers. I am also really excited about my new trading assistant role with TUI.

How did studying at Plymouth help you?

The skills I have gained from studying at the University of Plymouth have definitely got me to where I am today. The lecturers were great and always willing to lend their support, especially during the final year and dissertation. The opportunities the University present you with are fantastic, from CV and interview guidance, networking events, and the facilities. I developed as a person by studying at the University because I moved away from home and had to gain my own independence. From meeting new people and making friends to managing my time and finances, it was a fantastic experience.

Would you recommend undertaking a course with the University of Plymouth, and why?

Definitely! The course was exciting and opens up lots of different career options when you graduate. The opportunities the University offers students are fantastic, including facilities on campus such as the 24-hour library, and the networking events the lecturers arrange. The campus is very modern and the shops, train station, and nightlife are all within walking distance.